New Open Arms office on the Gold Coast

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A new Open Arms office has opened on the Gold Coast to support the region’s booming veteran population, which now ranks as one of the nation’s top 5 local government areas for former ADF personnel. 

The spacious facility located in Bundall offers face-to-face counselling, group treatment programs and practical support from Lived Experienced Peers who walk beside their clients during their support journey. 

One such peer is Army veteran Sean Skelton, who says the new centre has been designed to assist more veterans. 

‘We have a bigger space to accommodate more counsellors and more case managers,’ Sean explains. ‘Lifestyle is a big factor for our large vet­eran population on the Gold Coast – and you can see why. It is very relaxed here and people love the sunshine and being close to the beach. 

‘Many of our veterans served at Canungra’s Kokoda Barracks and there are also those who served at the Enoggera Barracks in Bris­bane and decided to relocate to the coast with their families.’ 

Sean says another advantage of the new Open Arms office is its shared space with the RSL’s Gold Coast District Office. 

‘It is fantastic because we can help more vet­erans through greater collaboration,’ he says. ‘Open Arms is already working with the RSL’s welfare team to ensure we find the right solution for veterans who are approaching one or both organisations in the same building. This way we can ensure that veterans and their families receive the support and help they need.’ 

Sean says this support includes helping veter­ans to stay connected to their mates. 

‘I see people who isolate themselves and that is not good for anyone’s mental health and physi­cal wellbeing. As Lived Experience Peers, we also support veterans to find their purpose through education and employment opportunities, and build strong connections with family and friends.’ 

The former Open Arms office at Broadbeach is no longer in operation. The new office is located at 128 Bundall Road, Bundall, and can be con­tacted on 1800 011 046. 

Image: Open Arms Peer Sean Skelton