A specialised provider of veteran-specific financial counselling has been added to the National Debt Helpline website, recognising the unique needs of the veteran cohort.
Bravery Trust provides free and independent financial counselling for current and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force and immediate family members. The service is built on a deep understanding of the veteran support system, which can be nuanced and complicated.
Bravery Trust CEO Garth Callender said it was important to recognise the unique nature of military service, and the need for tailored and specialised support for veterans who are negatively impacted by service to the nation.
“Service in the military is clearly unique and can involve exposure to high-risk environments and forgoing a number of personal freedoms. While most people leave the military with many new skills and positive experiences, there are a minority, who are impacted by their service – by what they have seen or experienced.
“The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has highlighted the need for tailored and specialised services to support veterans and their families, and a “shift from a reactive to a proactive response” to veteran wellbeing.
“Bravery Trust has evolved our model from a reactive approach focussed on delivering financial assistance, to a proactive focus on providing expert financial counselling and education programs to build new skills and empower veterans to gain control of their finances.
“We know financial wellness and mental health are intrinsically linked. By removing any stigma associated with seeking help and discussing financial challenges early, we can reduce the likelihood and impact of financial hardship and better support those who have served this nation.”
Bravery Trust stands as the only national veteran-specific financial counselling service. The Trust works collaboratively with a range of Ex-Service Organisations (ESOs) to make sure veterans can access holistic support.
Veterans or immediate family members facing hardship can seek assistance by:
phone 1800 BRAVERY
email ask@braverytrust.org.au
or apply online
Our professional financial counsellors offer a free, independent and confidential service.
The National Debt Helpline is also a not-for-profit service helping people tackle their debt problems.
