The Federal Government has today announced a $4.91million pledge to support RAAFA’s Andrew Russell Veteran Living (ARVL) program in Western Australia.
The pledge forms part of the Government’s $30 million Veterans’ Acute Housing Program initiative designed to support veterans and their families who are experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness.
RAAFA’s ARVL program has been designed for West Australian veterans in need through an innovative housing-first approach, which will be paired with individualised wrap-around services and service navigation support to address the risk factors that can contribute to homelessness.
The $4.91million grant will help RAAFA plug the gap in the build of the $10million ARVL project, following a $5million grant received from Lotterywest in late 2024.
The grant will be split across service streams, with $4.33million going towards capital works to support construction of 16 purpose-built units at the ARVL site in Perth, which RAAFA acquired 3 years ago with the dream of making this vital service a reality.
The remaining $580,000 received from the grant will be used to deliver specialist wrap-around services for veterans and their families, which will be offered in addition to navigation support so that veterans can begin to rebuild their lives as a civilian with RAAFA’s support. Services offered will include mental and physical health support, as well as services that support pathways to employment.
RAAFA CEO, Michelle Fyfe said the grant from the Federal Government will help plug the gap needed to get boots on the ground and commence construction on the accommodation site.
“Just under 12 months ago, we stood shoulder to shoulder with our supporters to launch a public appeal to the community and to our Government to not forget the important work our veterans have done to keep Australia safe. Today, we recognise the power of this cry for help and that we as a community can make a positive difference to the lives of our service people,” said Fyfe.
“As an organisation founded by veterans almost 100 years ago, we at RAAFA have long championed the need to provide companionship and care for those returning from active service — many of whose lives are completely different when they return home. Our ARVL program has been designed to ensure that veterans have a safe space to return home to and access to services they need to transition back into civilian life.
“Today marks not only a win for our veterans, but a win for Western Australians who can stand proudly knowing that we as a unified community are delivering an Australian first and that when we stand together we can make a true difference to those who are vulnerable in our communities. We remember them,” said Fyfe.
In 2023, the Give Me Shelter: Leave No Veteran Behind report revealed veterans are three times more at risk of homelessness than everyday Australians.
The ARVL program was established in memory of Sergeant Andrew Russell, who served in the Perth-based SAS Regiment and, tragically, was the first Australian military death in action since the Vietnam War. Sergeant Russell’s wife Kylie has worked with RAAFA to establish the ARVL program in his honour.
Planning for the ARVL accommodation site is underway, with a development application expected to be approved in early 2025.
For more information on RAAFA’s ARVL, visit: https://www.arvlwa.com.au/