Serving Those Who Served

Committed to helping veterans and their families through compassion and understanding

For over a century, Australia has recognized and honored the sacrifices of its service members. From the aftermath of World War I to the present day, the needs of veterans and their families have evolved, demanding innovative and compassionate solutions. Vasey RSL Care, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving veterans, their widows, partners, and families, is at the forefront of this mission. Led by Janna Voloshin, Chief Executive Officer, the organization is committed to providing high-quality housing, aged care, and community programs tailored to the ex-service community.

Uniting for a greater mission

Vasey RSL Care was officially formed in 2004 following the merger of two organizations—Vasey Housing Victoria and RSL Care Victoria. However, its history stretches further back, rooted in the experiences of service members returning from war. “RSL Care was formed after World War I to support our young guys returning from war,” says Voloshin. 

Meanwhile, Vasey Housing was founded by Mrs. Jessie Mary Vasey OBE CBE, a general’s wife, who promised her husband that if he did not return from war, she would support war widows. “He did come back but tragically died in an aircraft accident shortly after the war,” Voloshin explains. “She took that mission seriously, starting with widows and their children coming together for support.”

Through the decades, both organizations expanded their scope, initially focusing on housing for veterans and widows before eventually moving into residential aged care. With increased legislative requirements and an aging veteran population, the 2004 merger was a strategic step to create a new organization capable of addressing more complex needs. Today, Vasey RSL Care operates as an independent entity with a clear mission: “Serving Those Who Served.”

Independence with dedicated support

Vasey RSL Care provides various services supporting veterans at different life stages. The organization operates across four main business streams: residential aged care, home care, affordable housing, and transitional housing for at-risk veterans.

The aged care division includes four facilities across metropolitan Melbourne, offering high-quality care to veterans and non-veterans alike. The home care program currently delivers services to approximately 250 clients, helping them to remain in their homes while maintaining independence. Additionally, the organization was recently awarded a contract to provide a dedicated veteran home care program. “It’s a lower level of care, but it specifically caters to veterans, ensuring they receive support tailored to their unique experiences,” Voloshin says.

Affordable housing is another cornerstone of Vasey RSL Care’s services. The company has approximately 300 units and apartments across Melbourne and regional Victoria, including locations such as Geelong and Wodonga. “We provide safe and secure housing, recognizing that stable accommodation is critical for well-being,” Voloshin emphasizes.

A lifeline for veterans in need

One of the most groundbreaking initiatives undertaken by Vasey RSL Care is its transitional housing program for homeless veterans. Research has shown that veterans experience homelessness at close to three times the rate of the general population, highlighting a significant gap in support services. “We developed a unique model based on international research, particularly New Belvedere House in the UK, which has seen great success since 1973,” Voloshin explains. “This is the first of its kind in Australia.”

The V Centre Veteran Empowerment Program consists of a 16-apartment shared housing facility that provides accommodation and extensive wraparound services. “We connect veterans with ex-service and non-ex-service organizations that provide employment support, mental health care, and rehabilitation services,” she says. “The average stay is six to twelve months, and the impact has been incredible.”

Many residents come from highly challenging backgrounds, including incarceration and severe mental health struggles. “We’ve had young veterans fresh out of the army, some in awful situations. But after going through the program, they are back in employment and on their feet again,” Voloshin shares. “They’re becoming productive members of the community once more.”

This initiative is about providing a roof over their heads and addressing the deeper issues that contribute to homelessness among veterans. The structured environment fosters accountability and personal growth, while access to counseling and skills training empowers them to rebuild their lives. By offering a stable foundation, Vasey RSL Care helps veterans regain confidence, reconnect with society, and ultimately move towards long-term, independent living. 

Workforce driven by purpose

At the heart of Vasey RSL Care’s success is its dedicated workforce. The organization employs approximately 650 staff members and relies on the efforts of around 50 regular volunteers. The key to attracting and retaining talent, according to Voloshin, is a strong sense of purpose that drives the organization. “People come to us because they want to make a difference in the veteran community,” she says. “It’s about giving back to those who gave us the life we enjoy today.”

The company culture is built on shared values, and staff retention is notably high, with an average tenure of five years. One of the unique aspects of the onboarding process is that every new employee begins their journey at the Shrine of Remembrance. “We want our staff to understand the history and the sacrifices made by our veterans,” Voloshin explains. “Many of our employees come from diverse cultural backgrounds, and learning about Australia’s military history helps them connect with our mission on a deeper level.”

To support employee growth, Vasey RSL Care also offers scholarships to help staff advance their careers. “If a carer wants to become a nurse, we provide financial support to make that possible,” she says. “Investing in our team means more satisfied staff and better care for our veterans.”

Advocacy and community involvement

Beyond providing direct services, Vasey RSL Care actively promotes awareness and support for veterans within the broader community. Strong partnerships with ex-service organizations like RSL Victoria, Open Arms, Carry ON, Legacy and many others allow the organization to extend its reach and enhance the services available to veterans. “We don’t want to duplicate existing services—we want to collaborate and strengthen what’s available,” Voloshin explains. By leveraging these collaborations, Vasey RSL Care ensures veterans receive tailored support, whether it be mental health assistance, employment guidance, or social reintegration programs.

Community engagement is a fundamental part of their mission, and they actively encourage the public to participate in honoring and supporting veterans. From Anzac Day ceremonies to Remembrance Day observances, the organization facilitates events that foster connections between the broader community and the veteran population. “On Anzac Day and Remembrance Day, you’ll see people from the local community joining our commemorative services,” Voloshin says. “It’s important to foster connections and keep the legacy of our veterans alive.”

Additionally, Vasey RSL Care integrates veterans into the broader community through programs designed to create meaningful interactions. Whether through educational initiatives, fundraising events, or volunteer opportunities, the organization continuously works to bridge the gap between the veteran community and society. This ongoing effort raises awareness and reinforces the importance of remembering and honoring those who have served.

Building for the future

As the aged care sector undergoes significant regulatory changes, Vasey RSL Care remains committed to staying ahead of the curve. “We welcome changes that benefit residents, but navigating the increased regulatory landscape requires strong governance and resources,” Voloshin says. “Our board is dedicated to ensuring compliance while maintaining high standards of care.”

The organization has several significant projects in the pipeline. One of the most ambitious projects is the development of a new integrated community model in Frankston South, set to open in the next five years, which will combine retirement living, affordable and traditional housing, and aged care. “We realized that while we offer aged care and affordable housing, there was a gap in the middle,” Voloshin explains. “Veterans who can afford higher-quality accommodation and want to live among their peers didn’t have an option. Our new development will also fill that need.”

Additionally, construction has begun on a new affordable housing project in Bundoora, providing 20 units for veterans. “We’re also expanding into areas where we know the veteran population is growing, such as the western suburbs, Geelong, and the eastern suburbs,” she says.

Maintaining and upgrading existing facilities is also a priority. “We want to ensure our current sites are in top shape, so we’re looking at refurbishments and improvements,” Voloshin says. “We’re also looking for potential acquisitions that align with our mission.”

An open invitation

Vasey RSL Care’s work is a testament to the power of purpose-driven organizations. Its commitment to veterans remains unwavering as it continues to grow and evolve. Voloshin leaves an open invitation for anyone interested in supporting their mission. “Our aged care and home care services are also open to the general public,” she says. “As long as people align with our values, they are welcome.”

At a Glance

Who: Vasey RSL Care

What: A not-for-profit organization in Victoria, Australia, providing in-home and residential aged care, accommodation, and support services for veterans and war widows with aged care services also available to the general public, reflecting the organization’s commitment to inclusive care for the broader community.

Where: Victoria, Australia.

Website: www.vaseyrslcare.org.au

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