Ms Kennedy is keen to highlight the services the centre provides.
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Owen Sinclair
If you’ve ever applied for government support, you’ll know that navigating the labyrinthine online world of government bureaucracies can be arduous.
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But thanks to recent upgrades to the Shepparton RSL Veterans Centre — previously the Goulburn Valley Veterans Centre — the process is now easier than ever before.
“Essentially, my goal is: It will become a one-stop shop,” centre president, navy veteran and Cobram resident Molly Kennedy said.
“It doesn’t matter what somebody’s needs are, what their situation is when they walk in; we can provide them with the support they need.”
As part of its refurbishment in April, including a name change, the centre is going one step further to expand its services to veterans and their families.
Alongside providing compensation advocacy and assistance with Department of Veteran Affairs claims, the centre is now looking to support veterans with wellbeing advocacy.
The long list of services provided by the centre includes support for mental health and rehabilitation, bereavement assistance and many other areas affecting veterans and their families.
Earlier this month, Ms Kennedy had the chance to network with other leaders in veteran affairs at the Premier’s Anzac Day Luncheon in Melbourne.
The new centre on Wyndham St in Shepparton. Credit: BSPN Architecture
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It was part of Ms Kennedy’s efforts to get the word out there about the services the refurbished centre provides to those who have served in the army, navy and air force.
“From the compensation point of view, we walk veterans through the process, from gathering their service records, advising them on what they need to get from their doctor, helping them put a claim together and submitting that claim,” Ms Kennedy said.
“And then we communicate with DVA so that the veteran or their family member doesn’t have to constantly be getting those phone calls or emails. That can cause a lot of stress for most people, so we’re a buffer.”
Veterans who live within a 150km radius of Shepparton can access the centre’s services.
All services are free of charge for veterans.
The centre is located at 92 Wyndham St, Shepparton, and is open on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to 4pm, and Wednesday by appointment only.
Access to the new centre is via the Wyndham St entrance.
Find out more information about the Shepparton RSL Veterans Centre by calling 5831 7220 or emailing info@gvveterans.com.au
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