Advocating for and Supporting Veterans and Diggers
The Sergeant Matthew Locke MG Charity is committed to ensuring that both former and current serving veterans are valued by both the government and the community.
In delivering social and informative events for veterans, their families, and the wider population, the charity provides the necessary awareness and connection for accessing appropriate veteran support groups.
Through collaboration with other ex-service organisations the SGT Matthew Locke MG Charity promotes acknowledgement of service, entitlements for veterans, the significance of remembrance, and upholds the legacy of those who gave all.
Australian veteran support organisations are essential for many reasons:
• Veterans can often face unique physical, psychological, and social challenges resulting from their service.
• Transitioning to civilian life can be difficult and isolating.
• Navigating government support systems is often complex.
• Camaraderie support and community connection are vital for recovery and wellbeing.
• Families of veterans also need targeted support.
• Ongoing advocacy is required to improve services and recognition for veterans.
Australian veterans support organisations fill critical gaps, provide life-saving services, and help ensure Australia honours its commitment to those who have served. They play a vital role in helping provide:
• mental health care
• advocacy
• physical rehabilitation
• transition assistance
• financial help
• social connection and camaraderie
• family support
• recognition of service
Their work ensures that those who have served the nation are supported in all aspects of life, both during and after their military careers.

Veterans' Wellbeing Network Mid North Coast
The Veterans’ Wellbeing Network Mid North Coast (VWNMNC) is a Network of Wellbeing Support Officers and Advocates from eleven different Ex-Service Organisations throughout the Mid North Coast united in serving our Veterans and their Families. Our service to Veterans and their Families is: Wellbeing: Your first point of contact. Advocacy: Representing Your Case. Compensation: Supporting Veterans and their Families.
Visit www.vcmnc.org.au
Call 02 5621 8108
Coffs Coast VWC // 4 Scarba Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450
Hastings Valley VWC // 21 Cameron Street, Wauchope NSW 2446
Midcoast VWC // 75 Muldoon Street, Taree NSW 2430

Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling
Who we help: Mental health support for Navy, Army and Air Force personnel, veterans & their families
What to expect: Open Arms specialises in giving you access to free face-to-face counselling as soon as possible. We are committed to your privacy and confidentiality and will not share information with DVA without your consent.
Confidentiality and privacy : Open Arms offers free and confidential counselling, and in some circumstances working with the DVA or ADF.
Visit www.openarms.gov.au
Call 1800-011-046 for free and confidential 24/7 support.
Useful Wellbeing support resources
- OpenArms 1800 142 072 (DVA)
- ADF Members & Families Helplines
- Legal Aid NSW: 1300 888 529
- RSL NSW DefenceCare (02) 8088 0388
- Defence Force Welfare Association: (02) 6152 9162
- Phoenix Australia (incorporating the Australian Centre for Post Traumatic Mental Health) (03) 9035 5599
- Australian Veteran’s Children Assistance Trust: (02) 9213 7999
- Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800
- Mensline: 1300 789 978
- National Association for Grief and Loss (NSW): (02) 6882 9222
- Young Diggers
- Lost Medals Australia
- Soldier On 1300 620 380
- Mates4Mates 1300 462 837
- Veterans Wellbeing Network Mid North Coast
