“OUR FREEDOM CAME AT A PRICE. WHY SHOULD THEY KEEP PAYING FOR IT?”

"You can tell the true worth of a country's moral standard by the people it leaves behind."

We are calling for May 19 to be formally recognised as a National Veteran Homelessness Awareness Day (VHAD).

Without your voice, nothing changes!

Australia is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Yet research has estimated that around 5,800 Australian veterans experienced homelessness over a 12-month period, a rate significantly higher than the general population. Around a decade earlier, the estimated figure was approximately 3,000. 
While these figures are estimates rather than exact counts, they highlight the scale of a problem that remains difficult to measure, particularly when homelessness is hidden.

https://www.rslaustralia.org/latest-news/human-toll-of-veteran-homelessness-revealed​

https://housingallaustralians.org.au/new-report-exposes-true-human-and-economic-toll-of-veteran-homelessness/

Wood, L., Flatau, P., Seivwright, A., & Wood, N. (2021). Out of the trenches: Prevalence of Australian veterans among the homeless population and the implications for public health. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, 45(6), 638–645. https://doi.org/10.1111/1753-6405.13175

Despite their sacrifices, veteran homelessness continues to be a national concern.  As a society, we must keep it at the forefront of our minds; otherwise, it continues to fade into the background. Shelter is a fundamental human right; without it, we cannot begin to support those in need. If we have the means to help, we have the responsibility to act.

Thousands of Australian veterans have experienced homelessness after serving their country. Many face a combination of mental health challenges, financial instability, and gaps in support, leaving them without stable housing. These experiences often emerge through complex and sometimes invisible pathways, particularly during the transition from military to civilian life, where gaps in support and connection can have a significant impact. 

Why VHAD?

VISIBILITY
Bringing veteran homelessness into the public conversation, including what may remain unseen.

CONNECTION
Bringing veterans, communities and organisations together around a shared response.

ACCOUNTABILITY
Keeping prevention, responses and outcomes visible and asking what more can be done.

We call on the Australian Government, veteran advocacy groups, and community leaders to formally recognise May 19 as a National Veteran Homelessness Awareness Day, a day to raise awareness, advocate for stronger support systems, and honour those who have served.  

This day will serve as a reminder that no veteran should be left behind. It can strengthen policy attention, encourage community action, and ensure that veteran homelessness remains visible.

Visibility. Connection. Accountability.

Sign this petition to stand with our veterans! Let’s push for real change.

A recent radio conversation exploring the purpose and intent behind Veteran Homelessness Awareness Day is available here:

 https://open.spotify.com/episode/1cFJwP0qjk2sPMHBgsSEnP?si=217d86e22876404e