A Message from Association CEO Jenny-Jane Carpenter

On a recent visit to Canberra, I had the privilege of visiting our magnificent Australian War Memorial and attending the daily Last Post Ceremony.
Captain Ivor Stephen Margetts was honoured for his service in the 12th Battalion during WWI, and his story was deeply moving.
As CEO of TPI Veterans NSW, moments like this remind me why it’s important to honour the sacrifices of those who served and to ensure today’s veterans receive the support they deserve. Our community is built on respect, advocacy and care for those living with service related disabilities.
If you would like to learn more about TPI Veterans NSW and how we support veterans and their families, visit @tpinsw.org.au or connect with us here on Linkedin. Together we can keep the legacy alive.  #Veterans #TPI #Womenveterans #RSL #Remembranceday

World Mental Health Day – 10 October 2025

The World Federation for Mental Health was founded in London in the aftermath of WWII. Since this time, it has been engaged in efforts to support mental health. As a result of work by the World Federation for Mental Health, 10 October has become known as World Mental Health Day. Mental Health Australia’s World Mental Health Day theme is community connection.
Defence and DVA have recently released a Mental Health and Wellbeing Action Plan, which is available here. The first page of this document lists several mental health support services that can be contacted for mental health support. Information about  Mental Health Australia is available here.

80th Anniversary of the End of WWII in the Pacific

Lorraine Dawson’s “Dancing Darlings” performing the can-can at a function pre-planned for the 15 August 1945 which, with the news that the war had ended, was renamed the Lady Mayoress’ Victory Ball to celebrate Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day. Students of Miss L. Dawson left to right: Marjory Tompkins aged 12; June London; Margaret Baxter; Lorraine Dawson; June Goodall; Leila Patterson and Sylvia Jones. The dancing troupe performed at concerts and fundraising functions as well as entertaining troops based in Sydney. Maker: Phil Ward

Largest Iteration of Talisman Sabre Comes to an End

Largest Iteration of Talisman Sabre Comes to an End

Read more here

 

An Australian Army Hawkei High Mobility Launcher, from 16th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, loaded with AIM120 AMRAAM training rounds at Bradshaw Field Training Area in the Northern Territory during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025. Photo: Corporal Cameron Pegg

New Open Arms Online Programs

Open Arms is proud to launch two new online mental health programs tailored for veterans and families. These initiatives expand Open Arms’ digital mental health offerings, making it easier for veterans, families, and carers across Australia to access support—no matter where they live.

Both programs are open to anyone over 18 years old in the veteran community. You don’t need to be an existing Open Arms client to get involved. These new programs are delivered in partnership with two established providers of health services to the Australian community. 

Learn more about the programs here.