September 4, 2025
National-first partnership unites UNSW Canberra and Invictus Australia to support veteran wellbeing through a shared commitment to education, research and sport
Canberra, ACT – UNSW Canberra and Invictus Australia have announced a landmark partnership, bringing together Australia’s leading defence-focused university and the nation’s leading nonprofit veteran sport organisation. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in supporting the health, wellbeing and transition of veterans and their families through education, research and sport, aligned with the recommendations from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
The partnership was officially launched at Old Parliament House this week, emceed by shared alumna Sarah Watson. The event welcomed veterans, alumni, Members of Parliament, and distinguished guests from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Australian Defence Force, Australian Sports Commission, ex-service organisations, and the broader corporate, research and veteran communities.
The Hon Matt Keogh MP, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs & Defence Personnel, spoke at the event and acknowledged the partnership’s alignment with key recommendations from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. He highlighted the important role of sport, transition support, evidence-based programs, and family-inclusive approaches.
This partnership will also support the Veteran Health and Wellbeing Model, particularly in the domains of health, purpose and identify, and social connection.
Quotes Attributable to Matt Keogh, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
“The Royal Commission calls for evidence-based programs that can help our veterans navigate the transition to civilian life, so I am keen to see what emerges from this important partnership.“
“Research shows veterans who are physically active are 40 percent more likely to overcome mental health issues, and that is the focus of what is being announced today.”
Invictus Australia Chair and Invictus Games Foundation Board Member, Mr Glenn Keys AO, stated the importance of translating research into action. He announced the release of two new research reports authored by Associate Professor Miranda Van Hooff and Accenture. One reinforces the value of sport and physical activity to improve physical and mental health, social connection and transition outcomes for veterans and families; the other demonstrates the positive economic impact of sport-based initiatives when applied as upstream intervention for veterans’ wellbeing.
He said of the partnership, “The UNSW Canberra has been a long-term, committed partner of the Invictus movement dating back to support of the 2018 Invictus Games in Sydney. They were the first corporate partner of the newly formed Invictus Australia in 2021 and have extended that incredible commitment through to 2028.
The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide highlighted gaps across the system and support structures for veterans and their families. Invictus Australia has assessed that at least 34 of the 122 recommendations arising from the Royal Commission could utilise sport to address the recommendations, based on the research and evidence already available.
This partnership reflects Invictus Australia’s leadership in advancing veteran wellbeing through evidence-based, community-led, collaborative solutions. We know there is compelling evidence that sport is not only a tool for recovery, but a strategic lever for systemic reform. By integrating UNSW Canberra’s research expertise with Invictus Australia’s national delivery capability, we are establishing a framework that improves lives, informs policy, and drives meaningful change.”
UNSW Canberra Dean & Rector, Professor Emma Sparks, unveiled a new veteran education course to be co-designed with Invictus Australia and which will support veterans in identifying and adapting their military-acquired skills for the civilian workforce. This course will form a key part of the UNSW Canberra’s broader Veteran Strategy which is currently being developed.
“UNSW Canberra has proudly supported Invictus Australia for many years, but this partnership deepens our connection and represents our shared commitment to investing in a better future for veterans and their families,” Professor Sparks said.
“UNSW Canberra is both committed and excited to be expanding our role in supporting the broader veteran community, and as part of this commitment we will be implementing a veterans strategy, which will make education and lifelong learning more accessible for veterans.”
This partnership represents a powerful commitment to ensuring veterans and their families are supported through evidence-based, community-driven initiatives that foster resilience, purpose and connection.
More information about the partnership and opportunities to engage with Invictus Australia are available via the Invictus Australia website.
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Invictus Australia is the leading nonprofit organisation connecting current and former serving personnel and their families to sporting communities across Australia. They promote the benefits of sport for proactively managing physical, social and emotional health, and supporting recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration following transition from service.
UNSW Canberra offers high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate courses in all areas relating to military, strategic and defence studies. Additionally, UNSW’s Canberra City expands on the ACT’s reputation for tertiary excellence, collaborating with other academic institutions and peak bodies. We improve lives locally and globally through innovative research, transformative education and a commitment to a just and equitable society.
Looking to get involved in sport in your region? Connect with our staff through your regions Facebook group or email support@invictusaustralia.org.
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