Defence Health has joined as a sponsor of this year’s Bravery Trek for the first time, marking the beginning of a growing relationship focused on ensuring Australia’s veteran community receives meaningful support through health cover from Defence Health and financial wellbeing initiatives from Bravery Trust.
Throughout October, participants nationwide will tackle the virtual 120km Bravery Trek challenge, completing their distance through walking, running, swimming, cycling, paddling, wheelchair navigation, or pushing a pram. Adding to this year’s impact is the exciting new ‘Dusk till Dawn 12hr Challenge’ taking place in Canberra on 17-18 October, where teams of four will push through the night in a test of endurance and solidarity.
The 2025 Trek shines a spotlight on Australian personnel who served in Afghanistan’s Uruzgan Province, weaving together compelling veteran narratives that reveal the profound bonds forged in service, enduring sense of purpose, and lasting impact of deployment on those who answered the call.
Defence Health Chief Executive Officer David Brajkovic said the organisation’s involvement in Bravery Trek represents a natural extension of their commitment to protecting the health of those who protect our country.
“Since 1953, Defence Health has served the Defence community with a simple but powerful purpose: to protect the health of those who protect our country. Our support for Bravery Trek and partnership with Bravery Trust reflects our understanding that true health encompasses not just physical and mental wellbeing, but also financial security and stability.
“This is our first time sponsoring the Trek, but we see it as the beginning of a growing relationship that will ensure our veteran community receives the holistic support they deserve. Veterans face unique challenges transitioning from military to civilian life, and we believe that by working together with organisations like Bravery Trust, we can address both the healthcare needs and support efforts to relieve financial pressures that many veterans experience.
“The men and women who served in places like Uruzgan Province have given so much in service to our nation. It’s our privilege to play our part in ensuring they have access to support that addresses all aspects of their wellbeing – from health cover by Defence Health to financial stability through Bravery Trust.”
The October initiative operates on dual fronts: participants can join the month-long virtual challenge from anywhere in Australia, while the flagship Canberra event promises an intensive overnight experience built on the foundation of mateship and mutual support. We have a growing team of Defence Health employees participating in the challenge.
Bravery Trust CEO Garth Callender highlighted the critical impact of community support on veteran welfare. “While most leave their service with strong friendships, new skills and incredible memories, there are some people impacted by their service who struggle to return to civilian life. For some it can be difficult to find a new purpose, create a new identity away from the military and to readjust to the nuances of a civilian lifestyle.
“This event raises funds for Bravery Trust to provide direct financial support to cover essential bills and keep families in their homes; and also financial counselling and proactive education programs to set families up for a prosperous future.”
Bravery Trek will be held during October, aligned to Veterans’ Health Week. The national virtual format allows participants anywhere in Australia to join the mission supporting veterans who face financial hardship.
Free registration is now open at braverytrek.com.au
