Veterans SA recognises the important role Legacy plays in strengthening the wellbeing of veteran families and we welcome this significant step forward for supporting our veteran community across Australia
Legacy has announced the biggest change in its more than 100‑year history, broadening support to more families of veterans across Australia.
Announced in February 2026, the change removes the requirement for a veteran to have completed operational service for their family to receive Legacy support, meaning more families will now be welcomed into Legacy’s care.
Legacy is a national charity that assists families of veterans who can no longer provide for their loved ones due to service‑related death, injury or illness.
Under the new eligibility criteria, Legacy have expanded their support to families of former permanent Australian Defence Force members and reservists who have served on continuous full‑time duty, regardless of the nature of their service.
Legacy SA & Broken Hill President Legatee Heather Willis says the change enables Legacy to continue honouring its promise to support veteran families.
“Legacy has supported the families of Veterans for almost a century and we continue to keep that promise in these contemporary times. We are very excited to now extend our support to more families by removing the requirement for operational service,” Ms Willis said.
Veterans SA Director Bianca Wheeler has welcomed the change, saying the expansion of eligibility criteria will ensure more veteran families receive the life-changing support.
“Legacy has stood beside veteran families for generations and this expansion means more veteran families can access the support they need, when they need it,” Ms Wheeler said.
“It reflects the realities of modern military service and the challenges many families face around health, transition and long‑term wellbeing.”
“Veterans SA recognises the important role Legacy plays in strengthening the wellbeing of veteran families and we welcome this significant step forward for supporting our veteran community across Australia.”
The change is in direct response to findings of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and is expected to see thousands more partners and children able receive support.
The expanded eligibility also supports families of current serving ADF members who have been medically assessed as MEC 5 (Separation) and are transitioning out of Defence. Early support during this period can make a significant difference as families navigate civilian life.
Veterans SA maintains a strong partnership with Legacy South Australia & Broken Hill, investing in initiatives that enhance the wellbeing of veteran families across the state.
South Australian veterans and families who believe they may now be eligible are encouraged to contact Legacy South Australia & Broken Hill. For more information, phone (08) 8231 9812 or email [email protected].
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Photo: A South Australian veteran family supported by Legacy Australia.
