Update from RSL Victoria on Surf Coast Geelong Veterans and Families Hub
RSL Victoria is pleased to announce that construction of the Surf Coast Geelong Veterans and Families Hub will commence in July.
Planning consent has now been granted by Geelong City Council, and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) has endorsed the works to be undertaken at the rear of Geelong RSL Sub-Branch at 50 Barwon Heads Road, Belmont. While adjacent, the buildings will have separate entrances and exits.
RSL Victoria is currently in contract negotiations and detailed planning with a preferred builder. Construction completion is anticipated for mid 2027.
The Hub will deliver integrated, accessible and coordinated support services for current and former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), as well as their families, within the local community.
While the central Hub will be based at the Geelong RSL Sub-Branch, it will also provide dedicated outreach services across the Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula to ensure improved accessibility for the veteran community.
This will include:
- Improved coordination of veteran services and advocacy organisations, delivering comprehensive, wellbeing-focused support
- Enhanced access to a wide range of local services, including physical and mental health care, wellbeing support, advocacy, employment assistance, housing advice, and social connection opportunities
- A one-stop, integrated service environment connecting ex-service organisations, community providers and government services to meet the holistic needs of veterans and their families
- Support for successful transition from military to civilian life, recognising the importance of coordinated, wrap-around care during this period
- Improved outcomes across health, wellbeing, housing, employment and economic participation through better access pathways to services.
Operations of the new integrated regional service model involving local partners and ESOs will begin on 1 July 2026 from the Geelong RSL Sub-Branch. It will then move into the new Hub building after construction is complete.
The Surf Coast Geelong Veterans and Families Hub forms part of a broader national strategy to ensure veterans and their families can access high-quality, comprehensive wellbeing services within their local communities.
Sue Cattermole RSL Victoria CEO:
“The approval to start construction of the new Surf Coast Geelong Veterans and Families Hub in July is a major milestone in the project, but also a major milestone for veterans and their families in the region.”
“With the new regional service model also starting in July, we will have an established model with an expanded service offering and improved outcomes for veterans by the time the new physical Hub is completed.”
“We would like to thank the Federal Government, Geelong City Council and all stakeholders who have worked to get to this point.”
