News

Veterans' space a sanctuary

Creating a haven for ex-military personnel and their families was the driving force behind the creation of student veteran hubs at Australian Catholic University's Melbourne and Brisbane campuses.

The Brisbane facility was funded by the Veteran Wellbeing Grants (VWG) One-Off Program from the Department of Veteran Affairs and the Melbourne space was funded by the Victorian Government's Veteran Capital Works Grant Program.

Both facilities recognise the unique needs of current and former Australian Defence Force members who are making the transition to civilian life.

Hurdles for students with military experience can be significant and may include loss of identity, physical and mental health problems and financial complications associated with juggling fulltime work, study and family responsibilities.

ACU Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Zlatko Skrbis said the university had championed the wellbeing of defence personnel and their families through access to higher education, with the Veteran Entry Program and Student Veteran Support Program.

"With the support of government and industry partners, ACU has pioneered a suite of programs and courses to assist veterans and their family members as they undertake study," Professor Skrbis said.

The facility is adjacent to the campus café and community courtyard that serve as the social hub for Brisbane students and staff.

It provides a sense of belonging for the student veteran community and its features include office spaces, a meeting room, a kitchenette with integrated dining, lockers, a flexible study area and multi-media facilities.

A second dedicated space on the Melbourne Campus will also serve the growing community of student veterans and their families.

Army veteran and second-year Bachelor of Nursing and Paramedicine student Rebecca McGaw said the Veteran Entry Program has opened doors for her.

"I left school at 17 to join the military and didn't have an ATAR. ACU was the only university that transferred periods of service to an ATAR equivalent," she said.

"The transition from military to civilian to university life isn't always easy, but ACU has been brilliant at supporting me through each step of the way.

"This place is a sanctuary for us. Having a space where we can connect with other veterans who understand what it's like to make the transition to university is really important."

Media Contact: Damien Stannard, 0484 387349, damien.stannard@acu.edu.au