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Soldier On’s March On challenge has raised over $1 million in its first week.
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Last week, Soldier On officially launched its ‘March On Challenge’, a virtual walking challenge, which encourages Australians to walk 96 kilometres — the length of Kokoda — during the month of March.
The challenge pays tribute to the sacrifices made by soldiers in Kokoda during World War II, highlighting the importance of helping serving and ex-serving veterans of today.
Every dollar raised as part of the March On challenge is set to go directly to the services that Soldier On provides to current and ex-service personnel and their families to help prevent veteran suicide.
The March On challenge has raised over $1 million during its first week, with 1,862 ($108,309) donations made on the first day alone.
"It's no secret that many of our service men and women – and in-turn their families – face significant and unique post-service struggles including difficulty finding work, post-traumatic stress disorder and feelings of isolation,” Soldier On CEO Ivan Slavich said.
“The suicide rate among Australian veterans is simply unacceptable.”
“It has been fantastic to see people all over Australia getting out there and starting their March On challenge together. It is this simple act that not only shows veterans that we stand with them, but also goes a long way in providing them with the services they need to thrive.”
March On Patron, 102-year-old retired Sergeant Bert Le-Merton, thanked Australians for their contributions.
"I thank all those members of the public who have assisted Soldier On by taking part in the challenge and making donations,” Le-Merton said.
“The funds raised through March On will allow Soldier On to provide serving and ex-serving veterans and their families with the assistance they need to build better futures following their service.”
ADF members and their families can contact the Defence All-hours Support Line, a confidential telephone service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling 1800 628 036. Defence families can also contact the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608.
Safe Zone Support (1800 142 072) is also available as a free and anonymous counselling line for current and former ADF personnel and their families. The service is available 24/7 and provides access to specialised counsellors with an understanding of military culture and experience.
Defence personnel, veterans and their families can also access free and confidential counselling 24/7 through Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling Service (1800 011 046) or online at www.openarms.gov.au.
[Related: Soldier On launches suicide prevention campaign]
Charbel Kadib
News Editor – Defence and Security, Momentum Media
Prior to joining the defence and aerospace team in 2020, Charbel was news editor of The Adviser and Mortgage Business, where he covered developments in the banking and financial services sector for three years. Charbel has a keen interest in geopolitics and international relations, graduating from the University of Notre Dame with a double major in politics and journalism. Charbel has also completed internships with The Australian Department of Communications and the Arts and public relations agency Fifty Acres.
