RSL LifeCare to Transform Historic Richmond Courthouse into Veteran and Family Hub

The historic Richmond Court House is set to begin a new chapter in its long history, with RSL LifeCare, the NSW Government, and the Commonwealth Department of Veterans’ Affairs, partnering to transform the site into a purpose-built Veterans’ and Families’ Hub for the Hawkesbury region.

Scheduled for refurbishment later this year, the new facility will support more than 1,500 veterans and their families living in the area, as well as active service men and women at nearby RAAF Base Richmond. The revitalisation project will preserve key heritage features of the 1877 courthouse while adding modern, purpose-built extensions including communal areas, a kitchen, and a welcoming new entrance.

RSL LifeCare CEO Janet Muir welcomed the project as a milestone in veteran support services:

“Through this new hub, RSL LifeCare will be able to directly reach more than 20,000 local veterans and their loved ones with vital services – from DVA claims and advocacy, to financial assistance, employment support, wellbeing programs, and transitional accommodation.

“This remarkable courthouse has stood as a symbol of justice for over a century – and now, it begins a new chapter as a place of support, connection and care for our veteran community. I thank the NSW Government and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs for helping bring this important vision to life.”

Located near Richmond Mall, the hub will be easily accessible and serve as a one-stop shop, connecting veterans and their families to a wide range of services – from health and housing to education and employment. The project is supported by a $5 million grant from the Albanese Labor Government as part of the national Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs Network expansion.

Minister for Veterans Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel Matt Keogh said the expansion was vital:

“Our Veterans’ and Families’ Hub network ensures easy access to the services and supports Australia’s veterans and families deserve. This new hub in Richmond is a central piece of our strategy to better support veterans across Sydney’s west.”

Minister for Veterans David Harris highlighted the dual benefits of the project:

“This development will breathe new life into the historic Richmond Court House building and provide a welcoming space for veterans and their families. The Hawkesbury region has a high proportion of veterans and serving personnel, and this hub will deliver services right at their doorstep.”

This new facility joins the growing network of RSL LifeCare Veteran and Family Hubs operating across NSW, including sites in Wyong, Dee Why, Queanbeyan, Wagga Wagga and Nowra, with two more underway in Maitland and Tweed Heads.

RSL NSW President Mick Bainbridge said the collaboration between government and veteran organisations is delivering real impact:

“The revitalised Richmond Court House will serve as a vital hub for veterans and their families in the Hawkesbury, ensuring they have timely access to the tailored support services they need and deserve.”

Local veteran and Far Western Metro District Council President David Ingram added:

“As a veteran myself, I know how valuable it will be for our community to have a dedicated space to connect, access support, and feel understood. The transformation of the courthouse is a powerful reminder of how we can honour the past while supporting the future.” More information on RSL LifeCare’s Veteran and Family Hubs can be accessed here: Veteran and Family Hubs – RSL LifeCare

MEDIA | NICOLE HOGAN | 0467 733 296