Connection, Skill and Healing: Inside the ACT's 2024–25 Veterans Grant Program
Seven Canberra-based organisations have been awarded a share of $80,000 under the 2024–25 ACT Veterans Grant Program, backing a wide spectrum of local projects that foster mental wellbeing, social connection, and recognition for veterans and their families.
These community-led initiatives highlight the evolving needs and strengths of the veteran community, where healing often comes through connection, physical activity, shared memory, and purpose-driven engagement. Below, we explore the recipient organisations, their funded projects, and the meaningful outcomes they’re creating.
The Legacy Club of Canberra Inc.
Project: Legacy Concert
Location: Deakin, ACT
Legacy Canberra supports the families of deceased and incapacitated veterans. Their services include financial assistance, social support, advocacy, and youth development activities. The Legacy Concert will offer a low-pressure, family-friendly afternoon of live music, giving Legacy families a relaxed environment to connect, reflect, and unwind.
Why it matters: Social isolation is a known risk factor for poorer mental health in bereaved families. Events like this provide continuity, belonging, and emotional safety in a setting that reduces stress and supports intergenerational connection.
The Cuppacumbalong Foundation Ltd.
Project: Blacksmithing for Defence Families
Location: Tharwa, ACT
Located in a historic homestead on the Murrumbidgee River, Cuppacumbalong offers blacksmithing and artisan workshops with a strong focus on therapeutic, hands-on learning. This funded program provides veterans and their family members with structured blacksmithing courses aimed at improving mental wellbeing, emotional regulation, and skill acquisition.
Why it matters: Evidence supports the use of tactile, creative activities in trauma recovery. Blacksmithing builds focus, physical coordination, and mindfulness, offering a grounding activity with visible outcomes—important for those managing stress or PTSD.
Woden Valley RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Project: Annual Primary Schools ANZAC and Peace Ceremony
Location: Holder, ACT
This annual event brings together hundreds of local school students to engage in ceremonies that explore the meaning of ANZAC Day and peacebuilding. Run by a local RSL Sub-Branch, the event offers veterans an opportunity to share their stories and engage with younger generations.
Why it matters: Veterans often express a desire for their service to be remembered meaningfully. Public storytelling and ceremonies help affirm identity and provide a powerful sense of contribution and legacy. It also promotes peace literacy among youth.
ACT Table Tennis Association Inc.
Project: Improving Wellbeing Through Table Tennis
Location: Griffith, ACT
Delivered in partnership with Soldier On, this program provides weekly table tennis sessions for veterans that focus on physical activity, social engagement, and gentle competition. The association also offers coaching, inclusive access programs, and intergenerational events.
Why it matters: Regular physical activity is strongly linked to improved mood and reduced risk of depression. Table tennis is accessible, low-impact, and fosters hand-eye coordination, focus, and spontaneous social connection, making it especially effective for veterans managing chronic pain or transitioning from high-activity military life.
Australian Outward Bound Development Fund
Project: Veterans and Families Connection Weekend
Location: Tharwa, ACT
Outward Bound is a respected provider of outdoor experiential learning. This overnight program immerses veterans and their families in nature-based challenges like high ropes, bushwalking, and campfire storytelling, encouraging reconnection and mutual resilience.
Why it matters: Nature-based therapy is shown to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and build social cohesion. Adventure activities promote confidence and trust in a group setting, ideal for rebuilding family bonds strained by service transitions or trauma.
42 Casts Ltd.
Project: Veterans Fishing Day
Location: ACT region and surrounds
42 Casts is a social impact group that connects veterans and first responders through fishing events. This funded day includes guided fishing and a BBQ, creating a relaxed, informal environment for socialising and peer support.
Why it matters: Informal peer-based activities help veterans build trust and reduce stigma around seeking help. Fishing combines calm, repetitive motion with natural surroundings—contributing to emotional regulation, relaxation, and a reduction in hyperarousal symptoms.
Dogs Canberra Ltd.
Project: Veteran and Rescue Dog Pilot Program
Location: Gungahlin, ACT
Dogs Canberra is a dog rehabilitation and training service. This pilot program pairs rescue dogs with veterans and provides structured training and ongoing support. It recognises the therapeutic potential of animal companionship and gives dogs a second chance at life.
Why it matters: Companion animals have proven benefits for mental health, particularly in reducing loneliness, increasing daily structure, and lowering cortisol levels. For veterans managing PTSD, dogs can also provide a sense of purpose, safety, and connection.
From forging iron and friendships to reconnecting under the stars, these seven programs reflect a broader truth: wellbeing in the veteran community is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It grows from meaningful moments—music, movement, memory, and mateship. These projects invest in that growth.
If you or someone you know is a veteran or family member, take a closer look at what’s available across the ACT. These aren’t just events or activities. They are lifelines—quiet, consistent opportunities to connect, heal, and thrive.
Note: Contact information and website links are provided to facilitate direct engagement with each organisation. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to the respective websites.
