On July 1, 2026, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Wellbeing Agency commenced operations.
The new agency was originally announced by Member for Burt and Veterans’ Affairs Minister Matt Keogh on 2 December 2025, which he revealed will receive $78 million in funding over a period of four years.
The agency is not just geared towards the support of veterans, but their families as well. Its establishment is in response to Recommendation 87 of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
According to the DVA, the new agency was designed through consultation with veterans, families, ex-service organisations and service providers.
From 1 July 2026, the agency will launch its first services, which are planned to expand over time. The initial features will include a new standalone website designed to provide wellbeing information, a searchable service directory, allowing users to find local supports by postcode or region, a dedicated helpline, offering navigation and connection to wellbeing supports and more features to come.
“The Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency is about providing a connection to those broader supports. Veterans are often confused about how to navigate a way back to civilian life. They ask, ‘How do I know the right place to go to find what I need?”, Minister Keogh said.
“The agency will be focusing on supporting those people who are transitioning from full time Defence service to civilian life. We know that can be an at-risk cohort. There can be gaps between what support they’re getting from Defence and what they’re able to get from the Department of Veterans’ affairs, for example. Therefore, this agency will help them in navigating that, making sure that they’re connected to services that they need to support them in that transition journey.”
Brendan Cox has been announced as the agency’s inaugural Chief Executive. Mr Cox has an extensive background in the ADF.
“After serving for 28 years in the Australian Defence Force, Brendan has years of experience advocating for the veteran community, working across Defence, ex-service organisations and in the private sector,” said Minister Keogh.
“As Chief Executive, Brendan will be responsible for leading the charge to create a holistic model of care, where existing silos of support are better connected.”
Mr Cox served as CEO of Legacy Brisbane for a decade and is a current Director of the Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, where he supports research into veteran health and mental health.
He was medically discharged from the ADF and understands the unique impacts of service and the transition to civilian life, according to the Department of Veteran’s Affairs.
Brendan Cox will commence with the Agency on 27 July.
Department of Veterans’ Affairs Deputy Secretary Alison McLaren will serve as interim Chief Executive from 1 July until Mr Cox officially commences in the role.
