Veterans hub progresses despite construction delays

Libby Coker pledged federal funding for a veterans' hub serving Geelong and the Surf Coast during the 2022 election campaign. The project is now progressing toward a mid-2027 opening. Photo: Supplied.

AFTER missing its original opening target, the Surf Coast and Geelong Veterans’ and Families Hub has begun rolling out services as construction plans move closer to approval.

Funded through a $5.4 million federal grant announced ahead of the 2022 election, the hub will be based at Geelong RSL with outreach sites at Torquay and Queenscliff.

It is expected to provide integrated support for more than 6,600 veterans and family members across the region when fully operational by mid-2027.

The facility will serve as a one-stop shop for wellbeing support, advocacy, employment and housing advice, social connection programs and physical and mental health services.

While the hub was originally expected to open last year, RSL Victoria chief executive Sue Cattermole said progress had been slowed by the need to install a new electrical substation that was not included in the original plans.

Cattermole said RSL Victoria entered into a nine-year lease agreement with Geelong RSL in December 2025 and was working closely with the sub-branch to establish the hub.

The final plans for the hub are before the City of Greater Geelong’s planning department, with no major issues expected.

“The build contract is being finalised with the parties and work is expected to start shortly after,” Cattermole said.

“The operational model is already in pilot stage and there is strong support from local sub-branches. Arrangements have also been finalised for the outreach sites at Queenscliff and Torquay.”

The hub is one of several new facilities being established under a federal expansion of the Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs network.

A Department of Veterans’ Affairs spokesperson said the department was working closely with RSL Victoria to progress the establishment of the Geelong hub.

As work continues on the hub, the site is already acknowledging local military service through a tribute to James Newlands.

Born in 1881, Newlands was awarded the Victoria Cross in 1917 during the first world war. He later served in the second world war and rose to the rank of lieutenant-colonel.