6 tips for building strong social connections after Defence 

Various studies have indicated that social connection can strengthen your immune system, improve your mental health, and maybe even help you live longer. And it’s especially important for those transitioning from Defence to civilian life.  

Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation (GMRF) Associate Director of Mental Health Research and leader of the Veteran Reintegration Study Dr Madeline Romaniuk says Defence members often feel a profound sense of loss when they leave service, but this may be mitigated by making connections to the civilian community.  

“Our research demonstrated that those who were involved with civilian community groups or stayed close with their civilian friends while in Defence, found the transition out a lot easier as they weren’t losing their entire community following separation – they had always maintained connections, and a life outside of the military,” Dr Romaniuk says.  

We’ve put together six tips that can help you build new relationships and foster existing social connections as you transition to civilian life.  

1. MAKE NEW FRIENDS AND RECONNECT WITH OLD ONES

If you’re in the process of leaving Defence, consider reaching out to old friends on social media, joining a civilian sporting group like a footy club or cycling group, or perhaps going along to your local parkrun.

“For those less able to be physically active, there are special interest groups throughout Australia like gardening clubs, art, singing or film and TV groups or even Men’s Shed groups for metalwork, woodwork or DIY projects,” Dr Romaniuk says.

“The evidence is clear that social support and connection protects against mental health and reintegration difficulties.”

There are also plenty of events for veterans and their families on our What’s On page, including sporting activities, adventure challenges, coffee catch-ups, family fun days and reunions.

2. CHECK OUT YOUR LOCAL SUB BRANCH

An RSL Queensland survey of our Defence family also showed that our members feel more strongly connected to their local community.  

Our Sub Branches offer a range of social activities and opportunities for you to give back to the Defence family – so why not consider joining your local Sub Branch and making some new mates?  

3. FIND MATESHIP

Knowing the power of social connection and community, Mates4Mates creates regular opportunities for mateship and peer-support through social, recreational, and family activities.  

This includes barbeques, coffee catch ups, cooking groups, school holiday programs, and more, as well as online social connection activities.  

Mates4Mates provide a way forward for current and ex-serving Defence Force members and their families experiencing service-related physical injuries, mental health issues and isolation.  

Make the call that can make a difference on 1300 4 MATES or visit mates4mates.org.  

4. JOIN OUR ACTIVE LIFESTYLES EVENTS 

RSL Queensland understands that when transitioning from Defence, you may wish to make new friends who understand your Defence background and the complexities of moving into civilian life.  

RSL Queensland’s Active Lifestyles events provide opportunities for you and your family to take part in a wide range of single-day activities to try something new and connect with fellow members of the Defence family. From abseiling to cooking and kayaking to blacksmithing – RSL Queensland’s Active Lifestyles events take place in locations across the state and cater for all abilities – meaning there's something to suit everyone.  

Visit the What’s On page of the RSL Queensland website to learn more.  

5. SOCIAL NETWORKS INSPIRE GROWTH

Veteran Daniel Smith says developing and maintaining social networks aids personal growth and development.  

“It's difficult to re-enter [the civilian world] and find friends outside of the military because you know people that you serve with so well,” Daniel says.  

“But I think it's really important that we meet new people and grow in friendships and join groups and organisations that can have a community to bring together. I think it's really important to our development.”  

6. GET YOUR GAME ON

There can be comfort in community. For gaming enthusiast and veteran Samuel Harris, founding Veteran Gaming Australia (VGA) was a way to develop a community for current and ex-serving members while also improving their wellbeing. The group grew to 600 members in their first month and now have more than 1,700 members.  

“For veterans that are ex-serving, it has definitely helped with social aspects because when you leave service there’s a big void for social communication and interactions. We feel like VGA gives them an outlet for fun and a sense of belonging,” Samuel says.

“Video games get your mind involved and can be a way to get out of a certain headspace. A lot of our members find it’s a great way to relax.  

“Likewise, there’s a lot of people who are experiencing social isolation – whether it be from COVID or physical limitations and injuries – and playing online in the community is a way they can connect back in and form friendships,” he says.  

Anyone interested in joining Veteran Gaming Australia can register via the Veteran Gaming Australia Facebook page.  

With almost 35,000 members, RSL Queensland supports the veteran community through shared experiences. Learn more about our services helping veterans and get involved with your local Sub Branch today.

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