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The Christmas and New Year period is filled with joy and celebration for many Western Australians. For some, it can be especially challenging and may result in veterans and families requiring meaningful assistance. Gift giving and absent family members are just two examples of triggers that can exacerbate negative thought patterns, and existing issues.
Year round, RSL WA assists any veteran experiencing crisis or hardship – whether they are a RSL member or not. A friendly check-in or financial assistance can make a world of difference, and even save a life.
You can reach an RSL WA Wellbeing and Welfare Officer by emailing welfare@rslwa.org.au or visiting the Welfare page on our website.
2025 Office Closure Dates
RSL WA State Branch will be closed from Wednesday, 24 December 2025 and will reopen on Monday, 5 January 2026. If you or someone you know needs assistance during this time, support is still available through the services below.
SUPPORT SERVICE DIRECTORY
Temporary Accommodation & Emergency Support
Extended office closures can make this time difficult for those in crisis. Below are key services for short-term accommodation or emergency support:
- Wounded Heroes Australia – Crisis Support - Website | Phone: 1300 532 112
- Triple Zero (000) - Police, Ambulance, Fire & Rescue for life threatening or emergency situations.
- Defence Member and Family Helpline (24/7) - Website | Phone: 1800 624 608
- Safe Zone Support - Open Arms (24/7) - Website | Phone: 1800 142 072
- Defence All-Hours Support Line (24/7) - Website | Phone: 1800 628 036
- Phoenix Australia - DVA - Website | Phone: 1800 628 036
- Entrypoint Perth – Homeless Services & Accommodation - Website | Phone: 1800 124 684
- Accordwest – Emergency Relief (Bunbury & Harvey) - Website
- Salvation Army – Homelessness Support - Website
- Vinnies WA – Emergency Assistance - Website
- WA Connect – Homeless Support Directory - Website
Food Assistance & Essential Supplies
If you are able to, supermarket vouchers or meal support can make a big difference to someone in need. Alternatively, you can access assistance through the following services:
- Foodbank WA – Statewide food assistance - Website
- Tranby Centre (Uniting WA) – Crisis Meals - Website | Phone: (08) 9220 1288
- Vinnies WA – Emergency Relief - Website
Mental Health & Counselling Support
The holiday season can heighten stress and loneliness. Please refer anyone in need to these services:
- Lifeline – Website | 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue – Website | 1300 224 636
- SANE – Website
- Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling – Website | 1800 011 046
- Mental Health Emergency Response Line (MHERL) – Website | 1300 555 788 (Perth) | 1800 676 822 (Peel)
Thank you for your continued dedication to supporting veterans and their families. Your efforts make a real difference during this festive season.
Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful Christmas.
