Federal Member for Gippsland and Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester has praised the enduring work of Legacy volunteers, after joining the Legacy Week National Launch in Canberra.
The commemorative ceremony, hosted on the lawns of the Australian War Memorial, brought together veterans, serving ADF personnel, Legacy representatives and senior defence leaders.
Mr Chester said the event was an important opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices of veterans’ families and acknowledge Legacy’s century-long tradition of support.
“Legacy Week is much more than a fundraising appeal — it’s a national moment for Australians to pause, reflect, and recognise the service of our veterans and the families who continue to bear the burden of that service,” Mr Chester said.
“From a promise made in the trenches during the First World War, Legacy has grown into an organisation that, for more than 100 years, has stood beside the partners and children of our fallen and injured veterans. Their work remains as vital today as it has ever been.”
Legacy Week 2025 takes place from Sunday, August 31, to Saturday, September 6, with volunteers selling badges and bears to raise funds for practical support services delivered to families nationwide.
Mr Chester said Gippslanders, and Australians more broadly, could show their support in simple but powerful ways.
“Legacy’s volunteers ensure that no veteran’s family is ever forgotten,” Mr Chester said.
“You can make a difference by buying a badge or a bear, making a donation, or simply stopping to thank a Legacy volunteer.
“Every contribution, big or small, helps ensure no veteran’s family is ever left behind.”
