Who we help

Legacy is a uniquely Australian organisation, established in 1923 by ex-servicemen dedicated to the task of caring for the widows and dependants of their comrades.

The legacy of care embraces: both World Wars, conflicts in Korea, Malaya, Malaysia, South Vietnam, peacekeeping operations in East Timor, the war in Iraq and any death which is deemed service related.

Volunteer members were called Legatees because they accepted the legacy of care for their comrades' families; this title has continued to the present day. Some 5,600 Legatees assist more than 122,000 widows and 1,800 children and people with disabilities Australia-wide.

Legacy's assistance takes many forms, providing a level of support necessary for each individual situation. With the help of Legatees, who stay in touch with all families, Legacy ensures families receive their Legacy entitlements and access to government benefits.

Experienced Pension Officers are available to:

· Help care for more than 122,000 widows, providing advice and assistance, accommodation, medical and social support.

· Assist eligible dependants of members of the Australian and Allied Armed Services, and merchant mariners whose death may be service related.

· To prepare claims for pensions and other benefits and for subsequent ongoing advice and assistance.

· In particular, provide specialist assistance with submitting applications for Compensation for Dependants of Deceased Members and Former Members, including for War Widow's Pensions and Income Support Pensions.

· If initial claims are unsuccessful, when appropriate, arrange for appeals to the Veterans' Review Board and Administrative Appeals Tribunal and act as advocates when appropriate, these services are provided at no cost to claimants.

· Help ease heavy financial commitments, provide companionship, help with children's education, ensure medical and welfare services are available, or, provide somebody to talk to.

To obtain assistance, contact your local Legacy Club