Melbourne's soon-to-open V Centre Veteran Empowerment Program had some esteemed visitors recently. On Friday, 13th October, His Excellency Governor General, the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), and Her Excellency, Mrs. Linda Hurley graced the establishment with their presence.
Scheduled to open its doors in a few weeks, the V Centre promises to be a sanctuary for veterans. It is not just a roof over their heads but a comprehensive support system, offering wrap-around services to veterans who find themselves homeless, at risk of homelessness, or in less-than-ideal living conditions.
The V Centre's inception was spurred by a growing need within the younger veterans' community. The planning and development of the project span several years and, as Vasey RSL Care Board Chair Mike O’Meara OAM said:
“The opening of the V Centre is a significant step in our decade-long strategic plan tailored to cater to the evolving needs of the veteran community.”
O'Meara explained that Vasey RSL Care is in a unique position to support the challenges often associated with the transition from military to civilian life. He noted the following risks need to be addressed for veteran community:
Veterans face a suicide rate considerably higher than the average population.
Their homelessness rate is almost threefold compared to the general populace.
Approximately 300 veterans find themselves without a home annually.
Guided by the success of similar programs worldwide and enriched by insights from Australian experts in veterans' affairs and homelessness, the V Centre's Model of Care is holistic. O'Meara disclosed that while they are on the cusp of opening the V Centre, challenges persist. The program still requires $12.7 million for the completion of refurbishment and its operation for the initial three years.
Yet, hope is in the air. As Mike O’Meara puts it, "We are 100% committed to this initiative and trust in its transformative and life-saving potential."
During their visit, Their Excellencies engaged with the staff, special guests, and enjoyed speeches by Mike O’Meara and CEO Janna Voloshin. A guided tour of the new facilities followed, spearheaded by Vasey RSL Care Executive General Manager and veteran, Chris Gray. The visit concluded with an afternoon tea.
Reflecting on their distinguished guests, CEO Janna Voloshin said, "It was an immense privilege to have Their Excellencies with us, shining a spotlight on the often overlooked struggles of our veterans. These brave individuals once stood for us; it's our turn to stand by them."
With completion anticipated by mid-November, the V Centre will host an inaugural event later this year, signalling a new dawn for the support and care of veterans in Australia.