Soldier On launches 2026 Remembrance Day appeal

Soldier On has launched its 2026 Remembrance Day appeal to help veterans, serving personnel and their families access vital support. On 11 November, Australians will pause for a minute’s silence to remember those who served our country and honour those who gave their lives. For many veterans and their families, Remembrance Day carries deeply personal meaning. It is a time to remember mates, reflect on sacrifice and acknowledge the lasting impact of military service, including on the families whose experiences often go unseen. This Remembrance Day, national not-for-profit organisation Soldier On is asking Australians to remember those families and help ensure the Defence community can access support when it is needed. At the heart of Soldier On’s 2026 Remembrance Day appeal is Michelle, whose husband serves in the Royal Australian Navy. When Michelle relocated to Australia with her husband, she faced the challenge of building a new life away from established support networks. Frequent relocations and repeatedly starting again left her feeling increasingly isolated, undermining her confidence and sense of belonging. Even everyday tasks began to feel overwhelming. “I felt like a useless person. Why did I come here?” Michelle recalls. Her experience highlights how military life can affect partners and families as they adapt to change while supporting their loved ones. Finding connection and support can make an important difference to people navigating these challenges. Soldier On provides mentoring, social connection, employment assistance and wellbeing services to help current serving personnel, veterans and their families build confidence, strengthen relationships and access opportunities. Funds raised through the Remembrance Day appeal help sustain this work, connecting members of the Defence community with support that can improve their wellbeing and sense of belonging. Soldier On CEO Paul Singer said Remembrance Day was an opportunity to honour the past while recognising the needs of the Defence community today. “We remember those who served and sacrificed, but we must also recognise the families who continue to live with the impact of service. Remembrance is not only about the minute of silence on 11 November. It is also about how we support veterans, serving personnel and their families throughout the year. Through this campaign, Australians can help ensure people in our Defence community know they are not alone.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Group Sales Director Simon Hadfield at [email protected]