NEWS HEADLINES
Message from National President – Defence Estate
On 4 February 2026 the Australian Government released a public version of the Defence Estate Audit and the Government’s response to it – agreeing or agreeing-in-principle to all 20 of the Audit’s recommendations.
Walk for Veterans to Support Homeless Veterans and Legacy
Walk for Veterans Approval has been obtained for us to hold the “Walk for Veterans” event on Sunday, 29th March 2026 and those walking will meet in Harris Park, which is opposite the Pit area on the Main Strait, at 6:30am for a departure at 7:30am.
World War II aircraft located in PNG
After 82 years, the wreckage of a Royal Australian Air Force Beaufort aircraft lost during a World War II mission has been located in the rugged Baining Mountains of East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea.
Sunderland Legacy Honoured at Adelaide Awards Dinner
A moving ceremony in Adelaide has marked the continuation of a treasured RAAF tradition, with No. 10 Squadron presenting the prestigious Dudley Marrows Trophy for the first time under its new name.
From Conflict to Compassion: The Story Behind the RAAF Veterans’ Residences Trust
There are few positives that come from conflict, but the creation of the RAAF Veterans’ Residences Trust stands as an enduring exception. The Trust’s origins trace back to a remarkable episode during the closing months of the Second World War. On 16 November 1944, an RAAF Sunderland aircraft from No. 10 Squadron played a crucial role in the capture of the German merchant vessel MV Rostock in the Atlantic. By locating and shadowing the vessel, the crew coordinated with nearby naval forces, leading to the successful interception and seizure of the MV Rostock.
AFA-SA marks the 80th Anniversary of 460SQN Disbandment with 460SQN Friends and Family
In October, AFA-SA joined with representatives of the 460SQN Friends and Family Group and a 462SQN aviator from RAAF Edinburgh at the Air Force Memorial, Torrens Parade Ground, Adelaide, to acknowledge the 80th Anniversary of the disbandment of 460SQN and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice with the squadron in World War 2.
New option for veterans struggling with severe PTSD and treatment resistant depression
DVA is committed to supporting veterans to achieve improved mental health and wellbeing outcomes by providing access to a range of programs and treatment options
Veteran Wellbeing Grants now open – start early to beat the holiday rush
DVA is committed to ensuring veterans and their families have access to the support they need to lodge claims with confidence. The Claims Lodgement Assistant (CLA) program connects veterans with specially trained DVA staff who provide personalised guidance throughout the claims process, from getting started to submitting online.
RAAF Association Townsville Branch ADF Graves Refurbishment Project
A War Cemetery, located at the entrance to the Belgian Gardens cemetery in Townsville, was proudly established during World War 2 for those ADF members, in the local area, who were lost on active service. In 1946 the War Cemetery was closed to any further burials with the graves and grounds currently being maintained by the Office of Australian War Graves.
Bond University Study Seeks Health Practitioners’ Insights on Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Veterans with PTSD
Bond University is seeking input from Australian health practitioners for a national research project exploring the potential benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in treating veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Veteran’s Life Transformed by Assistance Dog
A year after receiving his assistance dog Twix, sponsored by the Air Force Association NSW (RAAFA-NSW), veteran Ian has reclaimed his life in ways he never thought possible. The Defence Community Dogs (DCD) program, supported by RAAFA-NSW’s generosity, paired Ian with Twix, sparking a journey of resilience and reconnection.
Eleanor Newton, Team Leader at Social Futures Veterans Connect, said the post-service journey varies for each individual, necessitating flexible support options.
New Air Force Memorial honours military aviators lost in peacetime in South Australia
On 17 October, more than 120 attendees attended the Dedication of, and the Inaugural Commemorative Service at, the new Air Force Memorial at the South Australian Aviation Museum in Port Adelaide.
Commemorating a Milestone in Humanitarian Efforts
The No 37 Squadron RAAF Association is proud to announce the dedication of a memorial plaque at the National Vietnam Veterans Museum on Phillip Island. This event honours the 50th anniversary of the HQRIC Detachment S deployment, a pivotal response to the humanitarian crisis in Southern Vietnam during March and April 1975.
Eleanor Newton, Team Leader at Social Futures Veterans Connect, said the post-service journey varies for each individual, necessitating flexible support options.
Support Services Available for Veterans in NSW Hunter and Central Coast regions
Veterans in Maitland, Gosford and surrounding areas can access tailored support through Social Futures Veterans Connect, designed to enhance wellbeing with experts emphasising early intervention for a smoother transition to civilian life.
Eleanor Newton, Team Leader at Social Futures Veterans Connect, said the post-service journey varies for each individual, necessitating flexible support options.
Solemn Tributes for 85th Battle of Britain Anniversary
In a moving display of national unity and remembrance, several hundred people have gathered in Hobart to mark the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, the pivotal World War II air campaign that halted Nazi Germany’s invasion plans for the United Kingdom.
MORE NEWS
Expressions of interest open for new Veterans’ Affairs Ministerial Advisory Council
The Australian Government is committed to reform to better protect veterans from exploitation within the commercial veterans’ advocacy sector. As a first step, veterans, veteran advocates and the broader community are invited to have their say on how to best...
Veterans’ advocacy regulation – have your say
The Australian Government is committed to reform to better protect veterans from exploitation within the commercial veterans’ advocacy sector. As a first step, veterans, veteran advocates and the broader community are invited to have their say on how to best...
Join the Walk for Veterans at Mt Panorama – Just Weeks Away!
With only a little over three weeks to go, excitement is building for the Walk for Veterans on Sunday, 29 March 2026. This special event let's participants lace up their shoes and walk the iconic 6.2km Mt Panorama circuit in Bathurst, NSW – a track famous for...
Study calling for female veterans
If you are a woman who has previously served in the Australian Defence Force, or know an ex-serving woman who may be interested, we encourage you to share the following link https://lnkd.in/gmQX9cezParticipants will complete the initial online survey (10 minutes) and...
AFA Releases Guide for Wearing Awards and Decorations
The wearing of awards and decorations as an Air Force Association member brings obligations and responsibilities to protect the reputation and honour of the member, the Association, the Air Force, and the awards and decorations. A Guide for the Wearing of Awards and...
Queens Park Memorial to Soar Again – RAAF 105th Birthday Service Unites Air Force Family
The RAAF Memorial in Queens Park Gardens, Brisbane, will once again come alive with pride and reflection on Sunday 29 March 2026, as the AFC and RAAF Association Queensland Division host a special Commemorative Service to celebrate the 105th birthday of the Royal...
Memorial Grove Welcomes New Plaques Honouring Armourers and No. 450 Squadron’s 85-Year Legacy
The RAAF Memorial Grove in Canberra continues to serve as a poignant place of reflection and remembrance, where the Air Force Association (ACT Division) honours the legacy of those who have served in Australia's air power story. Recent months saw two meaningful...
AFA-SA Engagement with South Australian Aviation Museum
AFA-SA has met with South Australian Aviation Museum (SAAM) leadership to discuss future collaboration opportunities. AFA-SA President, Lawrence Ng, and Vice-President GPCAPT Greg Weller, met with SAAM Vice President, Nigel Daw and Secretary Jean Kopp, to review...
AFA-SA Celebrates with WAAAF WW2 Veteran Centenarian
AFA-SA recently met with WW2 WAAAF Veteran Centenarian Mona "Pat" Stringer to acknowledge her 100th birthday! Joining us was GPCAPT Greg Weller, RAAF Edinburgh Reservist and AFA-SA Vice President, who organised for Pat to receive a Chief of Air Force Letter of...
Legacy Announces Most Significant Change in Its History with Wider Support for Veteran Families
Legacy has launched the most significant change in its history, expanding support to more families of veterans. For over 100 years, Legacy has supported the families of veterans who could no longer provide for their loved ones due to service-related death, injury or...















