Veterans' and Veterans' Family Counselling Service    VVCS

"VVCS" telephone number is a 24 hour service includes Country Veterans, out of hours CRISIS assistance, please contact a Clinical Counsellor telephone 1800-011-046.

The VVCS - What is it ?

It's a counselling service for veterans and their families.

Although Australia's military involvement in Vietnam ended in 1972 there are still many veterans who need assistance because of their war experiences.

Many still suffer from personal, health and relationship difficulties because of these experiences and, perhaps, an unsatisfactory homecoming.

The effects of a veteran's stress and readjustment difficulties are felt most strongly by family and close friends, so we encourage veterans and family members to use the service.

Since the VVCS opened in 1982 more than 12,197 veterans have used the counselling service and, on average, 89 people each month make contact with the VVCS for the first time.  [History of the VVCS.]

The VVCS is relaxed, informal, attentive, confidential and free. Although Government-funded, it's not just another Government office.

Is the counselling private ?

Yes, all VVCS interviews are confidential.

Your VVCS file and interview notes are completely private. The information is not accessible without your permission by any other agency, including the Department of Veteran Affairs.

What services does the VVCS provide ?

Councellors provide or arrange confidential help with:

• personal crisis;
• marital, family and other personal relationships;
• social interaction - that is, getting along with other people;
• stress and anxiety; and/or
• employment and financial problems.

Counselling is available for individuals, couples and families. We also hold group sessions.

Other VVCS services include:

• All centres have a 1800 number so that you can ring from anywhere in the State free of charge.
• volunteer training for veterans and their families, who can contribute by learning how to help others.
• self - help programs.
• support groups in country areas.
• Doctors are available for consultations at some VVCS Centres.
• Referrals are made for other specialised services if necessary. Country clients can be referred free of charge to local counselling services.

Who can use the VVCS ?

Veterans, or people with personal ties to a veteran, are most welcome. Families can get help - if necessary, without involving the veteran. Most Centres offer family support services, including partner's groups.

You don't have to be experiencing a service-related difficulty to use the VVCS. Staff will discuss any practical or personal matter, whether it appears to be service-related or not.

VVCS is the veteran's service --- your service ! You can come to the Centre alone, with your family, with a friend, or as part of a group. .....whatever you prefer.

The VVCS is often the main point of contact for veterans and their families who need welfare or or specialist assistance. In these cases VVCS counsellors will make referrals to the relevant specialist or agency.

When are Centres open ?

The Centres are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, but arrangements can be made to see counsellors outside these hours and groups are frequently held at night.

You are welcome to call into the Centre informally or you can ring for an appointment.

Where can I get help ?

VVCS Centres are based in all capital cities as well as Townsville, Launceston and Albury/Wodonga.

Veteran's Line, a 24 hour, 7-day-a-week telephone counselling service operates in all Centres......1800-011-046.

You can get help by contacting your nearest Centre. Phone numbers and addresses are listed for your information.

Where are the VVCS Centres ?