April 22, 2025
Veterans and their families in the Central West will receive a much-needed boost in support under a Dutton-Littleproud Government, with the Coalition committing $5 million to establish a new Veterans’ and Families’ Hub in Bathurst and $5 million to expand the Veterans’ Wellbeing Centre in Dubbo.
Leader of The Nationals David Littleproud welcomed the announcement ahead of ANZAC Day.
“The Royal Commission found the Hubs fill a critical gap in supporting veterans, with the establishment of them considered a positive recent development,” Mr Littleproud said.
“They will deliver integrated support to veterans and families, by improving access to local services such as wellbeing, advocacy, employment and housing advice, social connection and physical and mental health.”
Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Barnaby Joyce, said the new Hub in Bathurst and the expansion of the Veterans’ Wellbeing Centre in Dubbo will provide services in-situ for those in the region and surrounds.
“So often help is lost because of the extra requirements for veterans possibly dealing with issues for which they deserve support, can’t access the help to make life a little easier,” Mr Joyce said.
The Nationals candidate for Calare Sam Farraway said the funding commitment would provide a critically important space for veterans’ services and advocacy organisations to co-exist and deliver integrated support to current and ex-service personnel and their families.
“Our veterans have given so much for our country – we owe them more than just thanks,” Mr Farraway said.
“The commitment will bring services together under one roof so that veterans and their families in Bathurst and Dubbo, and across the Central West can access the support they need, when they need it.
“Too many veterans slip through the cracks because help is too far away or too hard to find. I hope this will make a lasting difference to those who’ve worn the uniform and their families.”
The Nationals candidate for Parkes Jamie Chaffey said the Dubbo RSL Sub-Branch has been committed to the establishment of a centre in Dubbo.
“This announcement will make a significance difference to the services already available for veterans and their families,” Mr Chaffey said.
“With ANZAC day fast approaching, we must never forget the sacrifices made by our local veterans – and always act to ensure that they and their families have the support they deserve.
“This investment will not only provide further support for veterans in Dubbo but a regional base for surrounding areas. Support services like today's announcement will build on the support already available for veterans. There is no doubt more work needs to be done, but it's a start.”
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