Veterans SA is proud to support initiatives like Veterans’ Families Day as we remain steadfast in our mission to ensure veterans and their families have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive in South Australia
Today marks the second Veterans’ Families Day in South Australia, a day of recognition that acknowledges the families that stand beside those who defend our nation – because no one serves alone.
South Australia is the only Australian state to recognise Veterans’ Families Day, which was officially marked for the first time on 15 May last year, as a day of recognition for veteran families and the sacrifices they make to support their family members who serve.
This year, Veterans’ Families Day will be celebrated across multiple days, with local businesses providing one-off, exclusive deals and offers to South Australian veteran families as a show of support for the Defence community.
The generous food and entertainment experiences aim to provide veteran families with dedicated time for family fun while fostering stronger connections with the broader South Australian community.
Veterans SA Director Bianca Wheeler said the growth of Veterans’ Families Day is an important acknowledgement of the pivotal role families play in supporting our veterans both during and after service.
“By expanding Veterans’ Families Day into a multi-day celebration, we aim to express our heartfelt gratitude for the invaluable contributions veteran families make to our community.”
“Veterans SA is proud to support initiatives like Veterans’ Families Day as we remain steadfast in our mission to ensure veterans and their families have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive in South Australia.”
There are nearly 48,000 veterans in South Australia, including current and former-serving members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
Veteran spouses, children and extended family play a pivotal role in supporting ADF personnel through ongoing deployments, relocations, and the challenges of transition into civilian life and beyond.
These often-overlooked members of the veteran community make significant personal and professional sacrifices due to the unique nature of military life, and this dedicated day offers deserved recognition for their contributions.
Across the South Australian Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS), more than 12 per cent of their workforce is comprised of ADF veterans – making them the third largest employer of veterans within the South Australian public sector.
In recognition of this close connection to the state’s veteran community, an MFS fire truck decorated to recognise veterans’ families has been unveiled. This message of support will continue to be seen around the community, as the truck continues its duties over the next year.
MFS Chief Officer Jeff Swann said the MFS prides itself on being an employer of choice for veterans transitioning from Defence Force roles.
“We recognise the unique experience that veterans bring, and we actively support them in finding a fulfilling second career within emergency services”, he said.
“The MFS culture has an ingrained respect for our Defence Force personnel, and by wrapping a fire truck we are providing a visual reminder of the important role families have in supporting our veterans.”
Following a 15-year career with the Royal Australian Air Force, firefighter Jackson Haren transitioned into the MFS in 2024, a challenge and new path he is thoroughly enjoying. Jackson believes recognition of the families who support those during and post service is important.
“Initiatives like Veterans’ Families Day is a fantastic way to show appreciation for our families who supported us and continue to support us through our careers,” he said.
“A small gesture like this can have a big impact.”
In addition to the veteran family discounts and offers available over the coming days, celebrations will wrap up with a veteran family day hosted by The Partners of Veterans Association of S.A Branch at the Payneham RSL on Sunday 18 May.
The event is open to all current and former serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and will feature live music, wildlife encounters, facepainting and recognition of veteran family service.
View the full list of offers available to veteran families this Veterans’ Families Day.
Read the Veterans’ Families Day media release.
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Veterans Families Day Morning Tea at The Precinct in Alberton, with a wrapped MFS fire truck on display. Pictured: Bianca Wheeler (Director, Veterans SA), Dan Demaria (Legacy CEO), James and Catherine (Legacy Youth Ambassadors), Miranda (VAC Chair), and Paul Broadbridge (APOD CEO).
