Free mental health training extended for veterans and their families

22 September 2025: Veterans and their families will continue to have access to free mental health literacy and suicide prevention training, with the Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs extending funding for Mental Health Protect through to 30 June 2026.

Delivered by Mental Health First Aid Australia in collaboration with LivingWorks Australia, the program has already trained more than 1,200 members of the veteran community with the skills and confidence to recognise and respond to mental health problems and crises.

Angus Clelland, CEO of Mental Health First Aid Australia, said that building capacity within veteran communities is critical to ensuring timely support, and can ultimately save lives.

“Thanks to the continued support of the Australian Government, this extension means more veterans, families and support networks will gain the tools they need to step in early and create stronger circles of support around those who have served.”

The extension announcement follows the Federal Government’s release of the National Suicide Prevention Strategy 2025–2030, which includes action plans to build community capacity for early intervention and strengthen connections to services.

Meanwhile, new five-year data on veteran suicide released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare demonstrates the urgent need for the veteran community to remain alert and connected.

“Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those lost to suicide in the community – and Mental Health First Aid Australia is committed to doing our part through delivering programs that empower communities to provide early support,” Mr Clelland added.

Funded by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Mental Health Protect provides free training to members of the veteran community – including families, caregivers, friends, employers and colleagues.

Workshops are available both face-to-face, in metropolitan and targeted regional locations, and online to ensure access no matter where participants live.

Ebony Whitehouse, Executive Director of Australian Operations, called on those in the veteran community – whether you’ve served, or you’re a family member, friend, colleague or carer – to take part.

“The training is free, practical, and designed to help you feel more confident supporting the people around you. Every conversation can make a difference.”

To sign up for a free training session, visit www.mhfa.com.au/mental-health-protect.