Windfall for seaside veterans program

ROBE 2 Recovery was one of 180 community organisations across Australia recognised in this year’s CommBank Community Grants program, sharing in $4.2 million in funding to strengthen local resilience, inclusion and wellbeing.

Each organisation receives $20,000 grant from the CommBank Staff Foundation, now in its 18th year supporting grassroots initiatives nominated by employees and funded through staff donations matched by the Bank.

Since its inception, the Robe 2 Recovery Respite Program has hosted 150+ veterans and their families in the beautiful seaside town.

Utilising off-peak holiday accommodation donated by holiday homeowners, Robe 2 Recovery welcomes veterans and their families by providing them with complimentary accommodation, further supported by the Robe community and businesses who donate goods and vouchers which are gifted to the veterans on arrival.

The initiative addresses key social challenges for the veteran, such as isolation, mental health pressures and reintegration into normal life after their service and the program creates a space for recovery and reflection, strengthening family connections and improving wellbeing in amongst a supportive and welcoming community.

This program has also united the Robe community, which has proudly embraced its role as one of Australia’s most veteran-friendly towns. Local businesses, volunteers, and residents actively contribute, building social cohesion and a culture of gratitude.

Through this unique partnership between veterans and community, Robe 2 Recovery delivers lasting impact — supporting wellbeing, reducing isolation, and strengthening resilience for those who have served our nation.

The CommBank Community Grant will enable us to complete the Robe 2 Recovery office – a cabin purchased earlier this year – which with the addition of a deck and ramp, will become a dedicated Veterans’ Hub and meeting place.

The grant from CommBank will enable us to provide a welcoming space to greet veterans participating in the Robe 2 Recovery respite program, as well as being an office space for our accredited advocates to work from, to assist in processing claims and navigating support services in a private and professional setting.

The Community Grants program is delivered through the CommBank Staff Foundation, recognising organisations making a tangible difference in all areas of the community.

The program invites CommBank staff members to nominate an organisation that is meaningful to them, allowing valuable funding to be provided to a variety of community initiatives.

Nathan Barker, Executive Manager Community Investment for CommBank, said the organisations receiving this year’s Community Grants were doing remarkable work – quietly, consistently, and with deep care for the people around them.

“At CommBank, we’re proud to play a part in helping their impact reach further,” Mr Barker said. “These grants are about strengthening the connections that already exist and supporting the momentum communities build for themselves.”