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RSL Queensland and the Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation have created new veteran welfare program Go Beyond, to support the transition to civilian life.
RSL Queensland and the Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation (GMRF) have collaborated to make a new program, Go Beyond, an online program that is aimed at supporting military veterans to transition to their civilian lives. The program is expected to launch on Monday.
According to a statement from RSL Queensland and GMRF, the program is the results of a six-year study titled “Service to Civilian Life”.
Dr Madeline Romaniuk, associate director of mental health research at GMRF, outlined that the research was important for improving veteran transition procedures.
“Previously, no weight was given to the psychology of adjustment and the profound adjustment veterans go through when they separate from Defence,” Romaniuk said.
“This highlighted the very real need to examine the learned and lived experience of veterans to provide them and their families with the support needed to navigate the unique challenges of transition.”
All veterans will be able to access the online program, which is set across five key areas, including purpose and connection, help-seeking, beliefs about civilians, regimentation and resentment and regrets.
Robert Skoda, general manager veteran services RSL Queensland, outlined that Australians must step up to minimise the impact of mental health on the veteran community.
“Our goal is to support all Australian Defence personnel with research informed services including tools and resources to support a healthy transition to civilian life,” Skoda said.
“Go Beyond connects veterans with interactive online educative modules that will explain the factors that are impeding their adjustment experience.
“The modules incorporate practical exercises and resources to permit the veteran to move forward in their transition from service.”
Miriam Dyer, chief executive of GMRF, welcomed the support shown to the organisation by leading veteran welfare groups.
“We are very proud of this research and its contribution to the improved transitions of military personnel and we are grateful for the support we have received from the veteran community and our partner RSL Queensland, as well as Mates4Mates and Open Arms that assisted with the pilot program. We look forward to the positive impact this program will have,” Dwyer said.
[Related: Veterans group pushes for independent oversight of RC consultation]
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