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Development of a new facility designed to support Northern Territory-based veterans and their families is underway.
Construction of the Darwin Veterans’ and Families’ Hub has officially commenced — a permanent facility expected to support approximately 10,000 ex-service men and women based in the Northern Territory.
The facility is funded by a $5 million commitment from the Commonwealth government, which has teamed up with veterans’ group Mates4Mates.
Services include helping veterans transition to civilian life, employment services, health and advocacy support from a temporary centre in Palmerston.
The new hub is expected to include 10 clinical rooms, facilitating access to on-site health care and support services.
This is in addition to recreational facilities, like a gym and a large outdoor area and barbeque facilities.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel Matt Keogh visited the site in Stuart Park, noting the benefits of the new support services hub.
“The Northern Territory has a large population of current and ex-serving personnel, and the Darwin Veterans’ and Families’ Hub will allow locals to receive support unique to them, close to home,” he said.
Member for Solomon, Luke Gosling noted the benefits for the local community.
“At the moment, veterans are supporting each other in volunteer roles with volunteer organisations,” he said.
“People in the NT have wanted a hub like this for a long time.
“It will underpin the volunteer efforts with professional veteran-led care and support, providing a 24/7 place for veterans and their families.”
Construction on the Darwin Veterans’ and Families’ Hub is scheduled to be completed in early 2023.
This is among 10 additional Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs to be built across the country, funded by the government as part of a $42.9 million commitment.
[Related: Raytheon Australia, UniSA partner to deliver veterans’ scholarship ]
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