Over the years, many veterans have settled within our communities with their families in retirement.
Their service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has instilled within them a level of self-reliance and reluctance to ask for help when things get tough.
Often, they are not aware what is available through the RSL and how it can assist.
The Bairnsdale RSL has a resolute team of volunteers, who are enthusiastic and keen, offering a confidential service to veterans (including reservists) and immediate families with issues that incumber their lifestyles.
The two teams consist of The Wellbeing/Welfare Team and the Compensation and Advocacy Service Team.
Both teams work hand in hand, assisting veterans and families in achieving the best outcomes, where possible, for all parties concerned.
The Wellbeing/Welfare Team can evaluate and often assist veterans and families, with the ongoing economic hardships of everyday living.
This could be by providing relief of essential costs of goods, transport to medical appointments, or just having someone to listen to your concerns, providing support for immediate family members during times of stress and grief.
The Compensation and Advocacy Service deals with all issues relating to obtaining veteran benefits such as Defence Force White and Gold Cards and any compensation and injury claims, relating to service within the Defence Forces.
All relevant documentation is carefully and professionally prepared, with the veteran and the compensation advocate, then forwarded to the Department of Veteran Affairs for final evaluation, assessment and approval.
The RSL can also provide relevant documentation/booklets, outlining important tasks that need to be prepared, with the veteran together with appropriate family members.
Examples are: wills, powers of attorney, end of life details, funeral arrangements, applicable passwords to files etc.
One important note to all veterans: “You do not have to be a member of the RSL to receive assistance from our teams”.
