Standing strong: The role of a veteran spouse
Behind many Australian veterans is a spouse who has been their unwavering support—navigating deployments, relocations, career disruptions, and the emotional challenges that can come with life after service.
While much attention is given to veterans’ health and well-being, the spouses who stand beside them also need resources, guidance, and community support.
If you’re a veteran spouse, know this: You are not alone.
As a veteran-owned company, Provocatus understands the unique challenges faced by veteran families and is committed to supporting those who have served, along with the spouses and families who stand beside them.
There are services, programs, and networks designed to help you. Whether you need assistance with financial aid, mental health support, or simply a sense of connection, this article will assist you to find the support you need.
Challenges faced by veteran spouses
Career disruptions and employment support
Many Australian veteran spouses face career challenges due to frequent relocations and the demands of military life. Re-entering the workforce can be daunting, and some may need to retrain or upskill. While programs such as Defence Families Australia (DFA) focus on employment assistance for spouses of currently serving ADF members, resources for spouses of non-serving veterans can be more limited.
For non-serving veteran spouses, organisations like Soldier On and the Families of Veterans Guild (FVG) provide career mentoring, networking opportunities, and support in navigating employment challenges post-service.
Mental Health & Emotional Well-being
The emotional toll of supporting a veteran, particularly those dealing with service-related health conditions such as PTSD, can be significant.
Many spouses report feelings of isolation, stress, or burnout.Lifeline Australia provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services, while Phoenix Australia specializes in trauma-related mental health support, including PTSD treatment and guidance for families of veterans.
Financial Stability & Housing Assistance
Navigating financial and housing support post-service can be complex. While the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) does not directly provide housing, it offers financial assistance programs for eligible spouses and families.
Service pension for partners – provides income support to eligible partners of veterans based on financial needs.
Rent assistance – available to those receiving a service pension and paying private rent.
Veteran Housing Australia (VHA) – a community housing provider assisting veterans and their families experiencing financial hardship.
RSL lifecare veteran services – supports veterans and their families in accessing rental properties, lease applications, and housing subsidies.
Essential resources for veteran spouses
Veteran spouses and families deserve access to services that support their well-being. Below are key programs and organisations that provide direct assistance.
Mental Health & Wellbeing
Open Arms – 24/7 confidential mental health support for veterans and their families.
Lifeline Australia – 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services.
Families of Veterans Guild (FVG) – A dedicated network providing mental health support, advocacy, and social connection for spouses and children of veterans.
Phoenix Australia – Trauma-related mental health support and PTSD treatment.
The Partners of Veterans Association (PVA) – Peer support and community programs for veteran spouses.
Employment & Education Support
Soldier On – Provides career mentoring, job placement, and training support for veteran spouses.
Veteran Employment Program – Primarily designed for veterans but may offer career resources relevant to their spouses.
Financial & Housing Assistance
DVA Financial Assistance – Offers financial aid for housing, education, and pensions.
RSL DefenceCare – Provides emergency financial assistance, rent support, and advocacy for veteran families.
Veteran Housing Australia (VHA) – Community housing for veterans and their families in need.
RSL LifeCare Veteran Services – Supports housing stability for veterans and their families.
Community & Peer Support
Soldier On – Provides career mentoring, social programs, and support services for veteran families.
Families of Veterans Guild (FVG) – Helps spouses and children of veterans connect with each other and access advocacy services.
How Provocatus supports veterans and spouses
At Provocatus, we understand the importance of veteran spouse support.
Through the Veteran Access Scheme™, we help veterans access veteran health care, ensuring that their spouses and families are not left to navigate the healthcare system alone.
We also believe in breaking down barriers to mental health care.
Our network includes specialists like Beth Masling, a psychologist with extensive experience in veteran family mental health. Whether it’s PTSD, stress, or emotional burnout, there is help available.
You’re not alone.
Being a veteran spouse comes with its own unique challenges, but support is out there. Whether you need career advice, mental health care, financial support, or just a community that understands your journey, the resources listed above can help.
For a comprehensive list of crisis support options, visit Crisis Support for Veterans & Veteran Families.
At Provocatus, we are committed to ensuring veteran spouses and veteran families get the support they deserve. If you’re looking for guidance, reach out to us.
