Mates Supporting Mates Home
When someone you know is doing it tough for any reason, we as
Australians instinctively step in to help. Being a "mate" to someone is
in our upbringing and Australian culture. Time in the Services promotes
the sense of mateship which continues all our lives.
A mate is
not gender specific and can cover a multitude of scenarios but in the
end you know who your mates are.
The membership of the sub branch
is aging and "mates supporting mates" in the Melbourne West sub branch is
encouraging all family and members to check on the well being of your
mates.
You don't need to do everything yourself. If a known mate
is having difficulty, currently in hospital or just needs a bit of
support, the sub Branch is here to assist.
Couple of Tips
Call or visit your mate when possible.
Talk to the mate's family and
friends. They can also keep you posted if a mate is having some
difficulty.
Contact the
Secretary
if you need assistance with your mate or
if your mate goes to hospital, a card and visits can be arranged.
Keeping in touch with DVA
Another way to assist
your mate is to keep the DVA informed if your mate cannot do this
themselves. Changes such as:
• change address
• move to a
residential age care facility or hospital
In the sad event of
your mate's passing
• the family or the executor of your estate needs
to tell us as soon as your mate passes away
• your mate's partner or
family may have eligibility to some entitlements, i.e. funeral costs
• a memorial plaque or headstone for your mate's grave in a public
or private cemetery
• your mate's pension will be paid until the date
of their death; if it is not stopped immediately after their death, it can
quickly build up a debt that your mate's estate will have to repay
You can contact the Veterans’ Affairs Network - General enquiries
(8am-5pm, Mon-Fri)
Telephone: 133 254
Regional callers: 1800
555 254
International callers: 61 2 6289 1133