Since 2001, over 39,000 Australian military personnel have served in Afghanistan. Many have suffered physical and psychological injuries, 41 personnel have lost their lives in combat, and many more have taken their own lives on home soil as a result of their service.

The developments in Afghanistan may present new or resurfacing challenges for our Defence community, according to Soldier On CEO Ivan Slavich.

“While our time in Afghanistan has amounted to great loss and sacrifice from our service personnel, as well as their families and the supporters of our forces, the impact on the lives of the Afghan people has been immeasurable,” Slavich said.

"We must remember the tireless work of our brave personnel, the progress that their sacrifices have allowed, and ensure they remain supported.”

The not-for-profit veteran support organisation’s primary aim is to promotion positive mental health and wellbeing for the veteran community, by delivering life changing support services to those who have participated in the conflict, and those who still carry the wounds of their service, including the families who have been impacted.

The Soldier On team has also established a variety of online activities to keep participants connected and social as the COVID-19 lock down rules may prevent through face-to-face activities.

“Now more than ever, it is important to encourage those experiencing difficulties to reach out for support,” Slavich added.

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"Whether it’s professional support or simply checking in on a mate, staying connected is crucial to our veteran’s health and wellbeing during these times.”

To encourage service personnel and their family members to reconnect with themselves, each other and to build links with the wider community, the national non-for-profit offers a wide programs supporting all serving and ex-serving personnel, their family members across the country, as well as online, and encourages the Defence community to reach out for assistance.