5 FAQs about accessing emergency financial support

So far in 2025, RSL Queensland has supported more than 300 veterans and their families experiencing financial stress. Some help is available immediately for urgent needs, while other assistance requires an assessment process. 

To make it easier to reach out for emergency financial support, we have answered five common questions about how eligible veterans can access emergency and other types of financial support with RSL Queensland. 

1. How do I know if I’m eligible for financial assistance? 

Emergency financial assistance is available to ex-serving Australian Defence Force members in Queensland and the Northern Territory (subject to additional criteria) who have completed at least one day of continuous full-time service – and their partners – who are experiencing urgent financial hardship. 

We may also assist Allied service veterans who are RSL Sub Branch members. 

2. What financial assistance can I access at RSL Queensland? 

If you’re a veteran facing unexpected expenses or a sudden change in circumstances, RSL Queensland may be able to help through the Emergency Relief Fund (ERF).  

This can cover essentials such as groceries, fuel or short-term accommodation (up to seven days) while longer-term solutions are explored.  

The Emergency Relief Fund support is intended to address immediate one-off needs and does not require a formal application or means testing process. The ERF support enables the RSL Queensland Wellbeing team to rapidly provide the means to access immediate food, fuel and accommodation. 

For other financial hardship, the Financial Assistance Program provides means-tested support to help with overdue rent, overdue utility bills, repairs or purchases of essential household items (like fridges or washing machines) or other critical expenses impacting your wellbeing. This program requires additional information and assessment. 

You would need to submit an application form and three months of bank statements, but don’t worry; our team will help guide you through the process. 

There are set guidelines around what can be funded by RSL Queensland. For example, we can’t cover loan or credit card repayments, or ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ services like Afterpay, Zip Pay and Humm. 

If your needs go beyond what RSL Queensland can provide, the team will help connect you with alternative supports and identify strategies to help you build longer-term financial stability and independence. 

3. Can RSL Queensland help with emergency accommodation?  

Yes. There are many reasons that veterans and their families find themselves in need of emergency accommodation and RSL Queensland may be able to support you with this.  

Short-term emergency accommodation is available under the ERF for up to seven nights.  

If your needs extend beyond seven nights, further support for accommodation is available if you meet additional criteria.  

Eligible veterans and their families who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness can access support through the Veterans Homelessness Program.  

Our Housing Practitioners are here to help you with addressing the causes of homelessness and navigating housing options, which may include up to a maximum 10 weeks of crisis accommodation while longer-term housing solutions are explored. 

4. Who do I reach out to for financial support?  

The first step is to call RSL Queensland on 134 775 or submit an online enquiry form. Our team is available Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm (AEST), and will get back to you as soon as possible. 

A Wellbeing Practitioner will then complete an intake and assessment to better understand your situation. We recommend having the following items ready to aid the process: 

• Your DVA card or DVA number; and  
• Your Defence Service Report (if you don't have it, we can help you obtain it). 

5. What other support services are available to me?

There is a wide range of ex-service organisations and community organisations that offer financial support, such as:

• Bravery Trust
• Department of Veterans' Affairs Crisis Payment
• The Salvation Army
• Mission Australia
• Services Australia
• St Vincent de Paul

State, territory and local governments may offer discounts or concessions on the fees or charges on services they provide, usually to eligible residents. For example, electricity, vehicle registration, public transport and house rates. You can find out more on the Queensland Government website here.

RSL Queensland can also provide additional support to veterans and their families for:

• DVA claims and appeals
• Health and wellbeing, including mental health appointments with Mates4Mates clinicians
• Employment support.