The Veteran Support Force (VSF) has received a major boost from the Australian Government, with the Veteran Games awarded a $200,000 grant to support the construction of new transportable obstacle structures for the 2026 National Series.
The inaugural funding was announced as part of the latest $3.5 million round from the Veteran Wellbeing Grants Program.
Retired Special Forces Major and fifth-generation veteran Heston Russell founded the Veteran Games four years ago in response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide which highlighted the urgent need to strengthen connection, purpose and wellbeing among veterans and their families.
The scheme resembles similar initiatives, like the international Invictus Games or US-based Warrior Games, which have a proven record of improving mental health outcomes for those returning to civilian life after serving the country.
Mr Russell welcomed the government’s recognition of the Veteran Games and the vital funding support for an event that is so important to Australia’s veteran community.
“This support from the Australian Government is incredibly significant. For four years, the Veteran Games have been built from the ground up by veterans, for veterans, driven by a clear need to reconnect our community and save lives,” Mr Russell said.
“It is encouraging to see the Australian Government recognising the importance of proactive initiatives like the Veteran Games that bring ex-servicemen and women together before they reach crisis. We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs as this life changing program grows.”
“The Veteran Games is about restoring purpose, strengthening mental and physical wellbeing, and bringing families into that journey. It gives veterans a chance to reconnect with each other, and to share that experience with their loved ones in a way many haven’t been able to since leaving service.”
Mr Russell said continued support from government at all levels is critical as the initiative continues to grow.
“This investment will directly enhance the experience and safety of participants through new infrastructure, but more broadly, it shows what is possible when government and community work together to support veterans in a meaningful, proactive way,” he said.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said the funding recognises the vital role community-led initiatives play in supporting those who have served, as well as their families.
“The Veteran Wellbeing Grants are focused on supporting programs that improve connection to community and holistic wellbeing and mental health,” he said.
The 2026 Veteran Games National Series is the largest to date, featuring events across Australia and internationally with a UK heat held from 24 to 25 July.
The next event in the series will take place at Robertson Barracks in Darwin on Friday 18 September, with the Northern Territory Government returning as a major supporter for the second consecutive year.
The winning team from the Darwin Regional Heats will be sponsored to compete at the Finals, to be held at Sunshine Coast Stadium from 24 to 25 October. The Finals will bring together a record number of Australian teams alongside competitors from the United Kingdom and the United States.
The 2026 Veteran Games is heavily reliant on donations and support from the veteran community including this year’s major sponsor Veteran’s First Consulting.
