Defence Health will continue its support of Bravery Trek 2026, recognising the important role financial wellbeing plays in the overall health and wellbeing of veterans and their families.
As a longstanding provider of healthcare for the Defence community, Defence Health recognises that wellbeing extends beyond physical and mental health. Financial stability is a key part of overall wellbeing, particularly during periods of transition or financial hardship.
Held throughout October, Bravery Trek brings Australians together to raise funds for veterans and families facing financial hardship through a virtual challenge or Dusk till Dawn, a 12-hour overnight team event in Canberra.
Participants can choose to complete a 120km or 240km virtual challenge across the month, or take part in Dusk till Dawn, a 12-hour overnight team event at the Australian War Memorial on 16-17 October.
Defence Health CEO David Brajkovic said the organisation’s continued involvement reflects a shared focus on supporting veterans in a holistic way.
“Supporting Bravery Trek is a practical way we can contribute to the wellbeing of the Defence community,” David Brajkovic said.
“We know that financial security plays a critical role in overall health. Through this partnership, we’re helping ensure veterans and their families can access the support they need to build financial stability and improve their overall wellbeing.”
“By being a sponsor of Bravery Trust, we’re supporting a more holistic approach to veteran wellbeing, one that recognises financial wellbeing as an essential part of overall health.”
Bravery Trek is Bravery Trust’s national fundraising campaign, designed to give individuals, teams and workplaces a practical way to support veterans experiencing financial stress.
Funds raised through Bravery Trek help veterans and families access immediate financial assistance, specialist financial counselling and financial education, services that improve financial wellbeing and support long-term stability.
Bravery Trust CEO Garth Callender said partnerships like Defence Health help deliver more holistic support to veterans and their families.
“Bravery Trek is about turning support into action,” he said.
“Financial hardship affects far more than a person’s bank balance. It can impact health, relationships, housing security and overall wellbeing.”
“Defence Health understands that financial wellbeing is an important part of overall health. Their partnership helps us provide practical financial support that enables veterans and families to regain stability and move forward with confidence.”
In 2025, more than 500 fundraisers took part in Bravery Trek, raising over $264,000 from nearly 1,800 donors – a record result for the campaign. This year, Bravery Trust is aiming to build on that momentum.
Since 2012, the organisation has delivered more than $9 million in direct financial assistance to over 6,600 veterans and families, alongside specialist financial counselling and education.
Bravery Trek will run throughout October.
Registration is free for the virtual challenge. To learn more or sign up, visit: www.braverytrek.com.au
