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Opinion: Invictus Australia is disappointed to have received confirmation that the 2026–27 federal budget will completely withdraw federal government funding for our national veteran sport and rehabilitation programs.
This decision will have immediate and far-reaching consequences for the thousands of Australian veterans and families who rely on our evidence-backed, community-based programs for recovery, wellbeing, and transition to civilian life.
For many participants, Invictus Australia’s programs help veterans and family members manage PTSD, anxiety and depression, rebuild routine and purpose, reconnect with their communities, and navigate the transition from military to civilian life.
Over the years, we have supported close to 30,000 veterans and family members through sporting programs delivered across the country.
Without continued funding, vital services and opportunities that strengthen veteran wellbeing are now at risk, including access to community-based rehabilitation and prevention programs, grassroots sporting opportunities that build connection and purpose, support networks for defence families and opportunities for Team Australia competitors preparing for Invictus Games Birmingham 2027.
Why this matters now
At a time when Australia continues to grapple with the findings of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, this decision represents a serious step backwards in the nation’s commitment to veteran wellbeing.
The statistics are stark. We continue to lose six veterans a month to suicide. Fifty-two per cent of Australian veteran families have experienced mental health challenges in the past 12 months. Veterans who remain physically active have a 40 per cent higher likelihood of overcoming mental health challenges
Invictus Australia’s sport-based, community-led approach can contribute to addressing 34 of the royal commission’s 122 recommendations for stronger early intervention, social connection and holistic support systems.
For many veterans, Invictus Australia is not a recreational outlet. It is a lifeline ... With demand already outstripping our capacity, this decision risks pushing vulnerable veterans and their families further into isolation. If we are truly committed to veteran wellbeing, support for this work must continue so we can keep delivering evidence-backed impact at scale.
We know the impact these programs have because we see it every day; in the veterans who find connection after isolation, in families who feel supported, and in communities brought together through shared experiences and recovery through sport.
While this funding decision presents a serious challenge, we are actively exploring every possible avenue to continue supporting veterans and families.
We will continue advocating strongly for the role sport and community connection play in saving and improving lives.
How you can help
Support has never been more critical. Every donation directly supports veterans and families who depend on these programs to stay connected and maintain wellbeing.
We continue to lose six veterans a month to suicide. This is not a time to be reducing services that save lives.
Michael Hartung is the CEO of Invictus Australia. The organisation helps serving and former Australian Defence Force members through sport, wellbeing and community programs.
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