Rugby Union
Rugby is a global game for all ages, genders, sizes and backgrounds with many varying formats for all veterans to enjoy.
“We’re a vehicle to help people. Rugby’s important but not as important as helping our members. We want people to know they’ve got somewhere else to go.”
Mark Newman
Navy Veteran and member of The Sydney Combined Forces Rugby Football Club
‘We’re trying to close that gap when someone discharges and enters full civilian life.”
James Manderson
Navy Veteran and member of The Sydney Combined Forces Rugby Football Club
Rubgy Union
From non-contact sevens, fifteen-a-side to elite and social competition, getting involved in rugby delivers significant social and health benefits.
Being a team sport, rugby is a great social activity and is beneficial physically and mentally. Aside from playing, there are plenty of opportunities to be involved in rugby, from volunteering for professional sides, administrative roles in local clubs, officiating, coaching and many more.
Wheelchair Rubgy
Wheelchair rugby is an intense, physical team sport for male and female competitors, and a popular Invictus Games inclusion. Wheelchair rugby is played on a basketball-sized court and teams are formed by four players and up to eight substitutes.
A volleyball is used and it can be carried, dribbled, or passed in any way except by kicking. The ball must be bounced at least once every 10 seconds. Competitors score goals by carrying the ball over the opponent’s goal line.
Team Australia are the reigning Wheelchair Rugby champions and are looking to build on this momentum in future Invictus Games.
Ready to get into Rugby union?
Local
partners
To keep up to date with upcoming events and connect with your area’s Defence community join your local Facebook group.
If you are interested in a sport that isn’t listed on our website, get in touch. With our contacts in the sporting industry, we have avenues to explore to help you find your tribe.
More Partners
This International Day of Families, we honour the incredible role families play in our lives—especially those supporting veterans. Your love, strength, and unwavering support provide a foundation of safety and encouragement through every chapter of service and beyond.
For defence families facing constant change and uncertainty, sport can be the thing that provides structure, consistency and an outlet for connection. That’s exactly what it did for the Evans family. When David’s Army service led them to relocate to Canberra, sport became not just an activity but an opportunity to meet people with similar backgrounds, providing a way for the family to begin building relationships within their new community.
Attending the first ACT Defence Community Sport Expo in 2022 opened the door to local teams and friendly faces. They enjoyed it so much they’ve returned every year, using the event as a way to connect and settle into each new chapter.
Our Veteran Engagement Team hosts sporting events for veterans and their families across the country every week. Want to see what’s on near you? Head to the link in our bio
Ever wondered what being part of Team Veteran at a @truegritaustralia event is like?
It’s challenging and muddy — but it’s also empowering and unforgettable. 💪
This weekend in South Australia, Team Veteran tackled the True Grit course with determination and teamwork, supporting each other through every obstacle.
Established by Invictus Australia, Team Veteran brings current and former serving members and their families together through sport and adventure — building connection, resilience and community along the way.
QLD, you are up next! Keep an eye out in your local Facebook page for event details.
“Sport has always had a role in my life. It always provided a sense of belonging. It is the closest I have come to the environment of being in the military.” - Daniel, RAAF veteran
From the uncertainties of transition to frequent relocations, veterans and families often see their routines change, support networks become harder to find and their sense of community lost.
Sport can be used as a way to rebuild and create connections. Local sporting opportunities facilitated by our veteran engagement team offer more than just physical activity — they offer a way in to a new community.
Our programs are open, inclusive and designed for all levels.
👉 Find a local event or activity near you via the link in bio.