Hamas-Israel conflict – counselling support for veterans

The Hamas-Israel conflict is confronting and may have a particular impact on members of the Defence and veteran community. Hundreds of Australian Defence personnel have served in peacekeeping operations in the region.

Continuous media reporting and images from the conflict can be distressing for those who have served and their families, evoking complex memories and emotions.

The health and wellbeing of the veteran community is at the forefront of our minds at this time. If you need support, please get in touch with us.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling is available 24/7 for you and your family. If you or someone you know needs support, we’re here to listen on 1800 011 046.

Support services

Current and ex-serving ADF personnel, and their families, can access Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling. This national mental health service provides 24-hour free and confidential counselling. The Open Arms website also provides a range of self-help resources and wellbeing tools. Visit the Open Arms Website or phone 1800 011 046.

For all current ADF members and their families, the Defence all-hours Support Line is a confidential phone and online service and is available on 1800 628 036. Families of serving personnel can also contact the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608.

Safe Zone Support is an anonymous counselling service that supports serving members, veterans and their families. This service is available at any time, day or night. The specialist counsellors have an understanding of military culture and experience and can be accessed online at Safe Zone Support webpage or call 1800 142 072. Calls to Safe Zone Support are not recorded. 

For other support, please contact DVA on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372).

Ex-service and non-government organisations 

If you are unsure about seeking Government support, there is support available elsewhere. 

Ex-service organisations play a vital and complementary role to DVA by providing mateship, advocacy and welfare support. Visit the Ex-service organisations webpage.

There are also a number of excellent non service-related community organisations available, such as Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support, or visit the Lifeline website. 

We thank all Australia’s veterans for their service, and thank the families who support them in their service to our nation.