Soldier On and Australian Red Cross launch partnership to expand volunteer opportunities for veterans

Soldier On and Australian Red Cross have officially launched a new partnership that will create expanded opportunities for former and transitioning Australian Defence Force personnel to continue serving their communities through meaningful volunteer work. 

The partnership  will support the delivery of Serving On, Soldier On's volunteer program, which connects veterans with opportunities to contribute to disaster response, community recovery and other community-based initiatives across Australia. 

The partnership launch was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding at an event hosted at IBM Australia's Canberra offices attended by veterans, volunteers and representatives from the veteran, community and corporate sectors. 

By creating pathways into volunteering, the partnership will help veterans continue making a positive contribution while building purpose, connection and wellbeing beyond military service. 

Soldier On Chief Executive Officer Paul Singer said the initiative reflects the enduring commitment many veterans have to serving others. 

‘Many veterans leave Defence with a strong desire to continue contributing to their communities. Through Serving On, they can apply the skills, experience and values developed during military service to support Australians when they need it most. 

‘Volunteering creates opportunities for connection, purpose and personal growth while delivering tangible benefits to communities across the country.’ 

Australian Red Cross Acting Chief Executive Officer Penny Harrison said veterans bring valuable skills and experience that strengthen community resilience and connection. 

‘Veterans have demonstrated leadership, adaptability and a commitment to service in challenging environments. These qualities are invaluable in helping communities prepare for, respond to and recover from difficult circumstances. 

‘We are proud to partner with Soldier On to create opportunities for veterans to continue serving while strengthening connections across communities and making a meaningful across Australia.’ 

Through the partnership, participants in the Serving On program will have access to volunteer opportunities supporting Australian Red Cross activities, including disaster preparedness, response and recovery efforts. 

IBM Australia is supporting the program through volunteer training delivered via the IBM SkillsBuild platform and through its contribution to the continued growth and delivery of Serving On. 

IBM Australia Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Nicholas Flood said the partnership demonstrates the impact that can be achieved when organisations work together to support veterans and communities. 

‘We are proud to support an initiative that helps veterans continue making valuable contributions to their communities while developing new skills and experiences.’ 

Together, Soldier On and Australian Red Cross, supported by IBM Australia, are helping veterans build meaningful civilian connections while strengthening communities and supporting a lifetime of service beyond military service. 

The launch event brought together leaders from all three organisations to celebrate a shared commitment to supporting veterans while strengthening community resilience across Australia. 

By creating new opportunities for veterans to continue serving beyond the uniform, the partnership ensures their skills, experience and dedication remain a powerful force for good in communities across the country. 

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For media enquiries, including requests for volunteer interviews, please contact:  media@redcross.org.au or 1800 733 443

About Australian Red Cross

Australian Red Cross is a volunteer-based organisation that exists to reduce human suffering. With 111 years’ experience and a community of 18,000+ members and volunteers, we act locally and connect globally to deliver what’s needed, when it’s needed most. We belong to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (the Movement) and, together with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and 190 other National Societies in countries around the world, we are part of the world’s largest humanitarian network; 16 million volunteers that help those impacted by disaster, conflict, health and other social issues.

About Soldier On 

Soldier On is a national not-for-profit organisation supporting current and former Australian Defence Force personnel and their families. Through health and wellbeing, employment, education, participation and social connection programs, Soldier On empowers veterans and families to thrive.