The Legacy eligibility expansion has opened support to more families

Georgie Hill was thrust into unimaginable grief on 29 December 2024 when her husband Steven, a 43-year-old Navy petty officer and marine technician with 20 years of service, died suddenly from a bilateral pulmonary embolism.

The family, originally from Sydney, had no warning – he was young, healthy and the centre of their world.

Georgie’s youngest daughter, Sybella (now 12), was just 11 when she found her father collapsed at home and bravely performed CPR until paramedics arrived.

Her quick thinking earned her a bravery award from NSW Ambulance.

“She was incredible,” Georgie said. “But it was terrifying for her – and heartbreaking for all of us.”

With three older children to think of, and Sybella who still lived at home, Georgie faced overwhelming practical and emotional challenges.

“I was in such a state of shock when Steve passed away. I immediately had to leave my job in aviation. Whilst my workplace was very supportive, I could not commit to shift work now I was suddenly a single mother.

“I also thought my connection to Defence as a spouse would be gone too.

“I feared my daughter and I would be without any support or even a home and I didn’t even know where to begin to ask for help.

“But then Legacy stepped in with the Defence Bereavement Team and I thought things would be ok.

She said Sydney Legacy made the ‘overwhelming feel manageable’.

“They gave me financial assistance for school uniforms, excursions and essentials – it gave us breathing room. But it was the human touch – the coffee catch-ups, check-ins and empathy – that truly helped.”

A family camp in Terrigal became a turning point.

“It got us out of the house when everything felt heavy,” she said. “We met other families who understood exactly what we were going through. I connected with another young widow in similar circumstances, and we’re still friends today. That shared experience reminded me I wasn’t alone.”

Legacy’s ongoing support has continued seamlessly. “They were like an extended family –always there if I needed to call, non-judgmental, and ready to help with whatever came up.”

Now rebuilding step by step, Georgie continues prioritising her health. “I had to be strong for the kids,” she said.

“Steve was my best friend and the love of my life, and a wonderful father to our children. He brought love, laughter, and warmth into our lives, and his absence is deeply felt.

“For 20 years, Steve proudly served in the Navy, guided by dedication, integrity and a deep sense of duty. He would want us to continue living our lives fully, and he would take comfort in knowing that his family is being cared for.”

The Legacy eligibility expansion—removing the operational service requirement – has opened support to more families.

“I thought Legacy was only for older war widows but it helped me – a younger mum with a young child,” she said.

“More families will now know they can reach out and get that same comfort and practical help.”

Georgie hopes her story encourages others.

“Legacy… supports you through the hardest time. Knowing they’re there makes all the difference.”