RSLQ 2021 Annual Report

53 RSL Queensland Annual Report | 2021 Advocating for Veterans We informed the Authority of the outcomes of the Veteran Mental Health Initiative studies and recommendations outlined by GMRF within the RSL Queensland-commissioned ‘ADF Needs Assessment Report,’ to support the Authority’s understanding of the needs that serving members may have during transition. Our engagements with the Authority continue to focus on recommendations and insights to support Defence in achieving programs and pathways that support a healthy transition into civilian life. This year, we encouraged veterans to be part of the 2021 Australia Bureau of Statistics’ (ABS) Census, which included two new questions: one Annual Highlights Using research to create online resources and new programs not only improves our service suite, but assists our position to advocate for veterans in the future. The increased capabilities of our research- informed programs will allow us to reach more veterans, particularly those in regional and remote areas. We’re also connecting with current-serving veterans through active on-base engagement with the Australian Defence Force. In 2021, RSL Queensland maintained formal relationships with the three Combat Brigades across Queensland and the Northern Territory. These formal relationships enabled us to build upon traditional service offerings to current serving members and positioned RSL Queensland to offer partnership opportunities to serve the health and wellbeing requirements for each base. 2021 also marked the first year that Defence formally requested RSL Queensland advocacy services have permanent residency on bases. Since the first request, we have received numerous more from other large Queensland bases. In addition to our formal relationships, we attended and supported a wide range of current serving events that allowed for engagement with the entire Defence community, such as the Defence Member and Family Support Welcome Events, a selection of base open days, and active health programs such as Run Army 2021. The formal relationships that RSL Queensland have developed with Defence allow us to provide tailored support and demonstrate relevance to the current serving community and their families. Aims of these relationships include the RSL Queensland network being seen as a partner to a current serving member during their serving lives; being an organisation that can assist a health transition from Defence; and providing community connection and wider support if required throughout their civilian lives. Our enduring commitment to supporting current serving members and their families has put us in a position of strength to understand Defence wellbeing priorities, and we’re trusted to represent the ex-serving sector in a current serving space. It’s also an effective way to communicate how the Sub Branch network works and what membership can provide to them, such as connection with like- minded people outside of their current Defence circles. To support those transitioning out of Defence, RSL Queensland and GMRF has engaged with the Joint Transition Authority – a newly established authority reviewing transition pathways. on Australian Defence Force service, and another on long-term health conditions. The data collected will help shape greater insights into the veteran community and enable effective delivery of veteran support services. We acknowledged that veterans who served in the Middle East would have undoubtedly felt great frustration and despair at the situation in Afghanistan, as the Taliban increased its hold over the country. We offered assistance, and urged veterans and RSL members to reach out for support and counselling. Advocating for Veterans / Continued on next page “The Veteran Affairs and Policy portfolio is focusing on issues that RSL Queensland believes the veteran community needs to address. The Committee draws on our skills, attributes and experience to help the department staff and guide them on the best approach.” WENDY TAYLOR Chair, RSL Queensland Veteran Affairs and Policy Committee