This domain recognises that mateship, family and community are central to wellbeing. The aim is to move you from “doing it on your own” to having a network around you.

Whether you want to catch up with other veterans, join a social or sporting group, or get support for your family, this is where you start.

Partners, children and carers of veterans can also find programs and groups tailored to them, including respite and carer support.

Re-establishing camaraderie and finding connection with people who understand service life can be helpful for some people.

In SA, Veteran Community Hubs and specific peer support groups may offer immediate connection and shared activities, while Soldier On offers a mentoring program to provide support and guidance to veterans, service members, and their families to assist them in achieving their goals.

Veterans SA

Website: Veterans SA
What they do: For a directory of local veteran clubs, associations, and community hubs in South Australia.

Legacy Australia (SA)

Website: Legacy Australia (SA)
What they do: Supporting for families of deceased or incapacitated veterans.

Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling

Website: Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling
Phone: 1800 011 046
What they do: Peer support programs and group sessions

RSL South Australia

Website: RSL South Australia
What they do: Contact information for local Sub-Branch social events and welfare support.

Soldier On

Website: Soldier On
What they do: Information about mentoring programs and connections to community activities.

DefGLIS (Defence LGBTQI+ Information Service)

Website: DefGLIS (Defence LGBTQI+ Information Service)
What they do: Peer support and social networks

Building a life and sense of belonging outside the veteran community is important for successful integration and purpose.

Local council and community centres offer a wide range of groups, classes, and volunteering opportunities. Volunteering is also an excellent way to use your skills and meet new people based on shared interests.

Migrant Resource Centre of South Australia (MRCSA)

Website: Migrant Resource Centre of South Australia (MRCSA)
What they do: For local culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) connection and support.

SAcommunity

Website: SAcommunity
What they do: Searchable directory of clubs, groups, and activities run by local councils.
Meetup/Local Community Centres: Check your local council website for events and activity groups.

Volunteering SA & NT

Website: Volunteering SA & NT
What they do: A comprehensive list of non-veteran related volunteering opportunities in your area.

Veteran-focused organisations across SA host family days, community events, barbecues, remembrance activities, wellness programs, and school holiday activities that welcome partners and children.

These events help families feel included in the veteran community and provide opportunities for children to build their own networks.

Veterans SA

Website: Veterans SA
What they do: For a directory of local veteran clubs, associations, and community hubs in South Australia.

Legacy Australia (SA)

Website: Legacy Australia (SA)
What they do: Supporting for families of deceased or incapacitated veterans.

Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling

Website: Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling
Phone: 1800 011 046
What they do: Peer support programs and group sessions

RSL South Australia

Website: RSL South Australia
What they do: Contact information for local Sub-Branch social events and welfare support.

Soldier On

Website: Soldier On
What they do: Information about mentoring programs and connections to community activities.

Frequent transitions, relocation, or the impacts of service-related injury can make school changes or childcare decisions more complex for veteran families.

Support is available to help you find suitable childcare, prepare children for new schools, and access wellbeing or educational assistance if the family is adjusting to illness or transition:

Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS)

Website: Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS)
What they do: Guidance for families with school‑aged children, including transition resources.

Carer Gateway

Website: Carer Gateway
What they do: Advice for carers managing childcare alongside caring responsibilities.

Local councils & SA community centres

Website: Local councils & SA community centres
What they do: Directories for early childhood services and local programs.

The service life and transition impact the entire family unit. Family-focused support, respite, and peer networks for spouses and children are crucial.

When a veteran’s health changes or they leave the ADF, families may experience shifts in roles, routines, responsibilities, or identity.

Injuries, trauma, or mental health conditions can also affect relationships, routines, and children’s sense of safety.

Professional guidance can help families understand what children may be experiencing, build coping strategies, improve communication, and strengthen the whole household’s resilience.

Open Arms offers specific group programs and counselling for spouses, partners, and children. Legacy supports the families of veterans who have died or are seriously injured, and many ESOs run intergenerational activities.

ADF family programs also provide support for the unique needs of children of ADF members.

Relationship challenges are common during service transitions, post-traumatic stress recovery, or due to chronic health issues. Professional support can provide the tools to navigate these difficulties together. Free, confidential counselling is available from a range of service providers, including couples and family counselling, focusing on relationship dynamics affected by service.

For more information, contact:

Open Arms

Website: Open Arms
Phone: 1800 011 046
What they do: Relationship and family counselling; adjustment and transition programs.

Relationships Australia (SA)

Website: Relationships Australia (SA)
Phone: 1300 364 277
What they do: Couples counselling, mediation, and family dispute resolution.

Mensline Australia

Website: Mensline Australia
Phone: 1300 787 978

You can access free, military aware counselling and peer programs through Open Arms (for partners, children and carers) — available 24/7 by phone and across SA. Carer Gateway also offers in person/phone counselling, peer groups, and self‑guided coaching tailored to carers.

In SA, Carers SA coordinates local carer groups and carer breaks.

For more information, contact:

Open Arms (24/7)

Website: Open Arms (24/7)
Phone: 1800 011 046
What they do: Services for families & carers

Website: Carer Gateway
Phone: 1800 422 737
What they do: counselling/peer support for carers.