FAQ's
Families of Veterans Guild is here to support war widows and the families of veterans across Australia. We know that navigating support services, connecting with community, and understanding how to get involved can raise many questions.
This page brings together answers to the most common questions we are asked about who we are, the support we provide, and how you can be part of our community.
Whether you are a war widow seeking connection, a veteran partner looking for wellbeing support, or a community member wanting to volunteer or donate, you’ll find clear information below.
If your question isn’t answered here, please contact our team on 1800 451 615 or email info@familiesofveterans.org.au
Who does Families of Veterans Guild support?
We support war widows and the broader families of current and former Australian Defence Force members, Australia-wide. You don’t need to be a financial member to access our Social Work and Wellbeing Program.
Is Families of Veterans Guild the same organisation as Australian War Widows NSW?
Yes. Australian War Widows NSW Ltd trades as Families of Veterans Guild. The organisation began in 1946 and continues to deliver services, connection and advocacy for veterans’ families.
What types of support do you offer?
We focus on advocacy, connection and practical help. This includes a Social Work and Wellbeing Program, peer connection activities and projects that raise public awareness of veteran family needs.
What is the Social Work and Wellbeing Program?
It is a trauma-informed social work service for defence and veteran families. It provides information, education, supported service navigation, referrals, regular wellbeing calls, a monthly newsletter, webinars and in-person or online activities. It is free to access and open nationally.
Do I need to be a member to access support or attend activities?
No. Families of current and former ADF members can access the Social Work and Wellbeing Program and wellbeing activities for free, whether or not they hold a paid membership.
What are your wellbeing activities?
Free online and local activities designed to reduce isolation and build peer connections for war widows and defence and veteran families. Examples include creative workshops, walks and family events in NSW and the ACT, plus online sessions anyone can join.
Do you run webinars?
Yes. We present free webinars on issues relevant to defence and veteran families. Sessions are recorded so you can catch up later.
What are War Widows Programs?
They include a network of Guild and Social Clubs across metropolitan, regional and rural NSW, a Friendship Line for older widows and practical assistance such as help connecting to community transport where eligible.
What is the Friendship Line?
A telephone and letter-writing service primarily for widows over 70 that offers regular social contact from trained volunteers. It is about companionship rather than counselling and conversations are confidential.
Do you have annual events?
Yes. Major events include the ANZAC Field of Remembrance in April, a members’ Annual General Meeting and the War Widows Day Service on 19 October.
What is War Widows Day?
It is a day of recognition and remembrance that honours war widows and widowers and acknowledges the lifelong contribution of veterans’ families. The NSW service is held on 19 October.
What is the Rise Together Initiative?
A career-confidence and leadership initiative for defence and veteran partners, supporting participation in the Women in Leadership Development program. Subscribe to updates for future rounds.
How do I become a member?
Anyone who is a war widow, a family member of a current or former ADF or allied defence member, a current or former ADF or allied defence member, or a supporter of our objects can join. Annual membership is currently $30.
Why become a member?
Members help shape the organisation and gain access to a growing program of services, online and in-person events and governance opportunities.
How can I volunteer?
We welcome volunteers for roles such as Friendship Line callers and event support. Time commitments are flexible. Register your interest and our team will contact you.
How can I support your work financially?
Donations help fund advocacy and social connection programs. Gifts are tax-deductible, and we also accept bequests. You can donate securely online.
Where can I read your publications and reports?
“The Digest” is published quarterly, with back issues available on the website. You can also subscribe to the monthly e-newsletter and download the latest Annual Report.
How are you governed?
We are overseen by a Board of Directors responsible for strategy, finance, compliance and risk. Governance documents and audited reports are available via our ACNC profile, and core policies such as Whistleblower, Complaints and Privacy are published on our site.
Where can I learn about your history and founder?
Our history dates back to 1946 and the leadership of Mrs Jessie Mary Vasey, who founded the Guild to support war widows after the Second World War.
Do you have a gallery of past activities?
Yes. Our gallery showcases community, remembrance and wellbeing activities across the year.
Where are you located and how do I contact you?
Suite 1.01, Level 1, 9 Help Street, Chatswood NSW 2067. Phone 02 9267 6577 or 1800 451 615 (national). Office hours Monday to Friday.
Are you a crisis service?
No. For 24-hour counselling for veterans and families, contact Open Arms on 1800 011 046. In an emergency, call 000.