Group of veterans and family members enjoying a BBQ in the park.

Social connection activities

Engaging social activities provide opportunities for meaningful connections with other veterans and families.

You will find mateship and support through our social, recreational and family activities.

Veterans and their families impacted by injuries or mental health illnesses may experience isolation, particularly if they’ve recently transitioned out of a close-knit Defence community. Having a community of like-minded people – a group of mates – can be an important part of your wellbeing and recovery. 

At Mates4Mates, we hold regular social connection activities throughout the week and on weekends, to provide a safe place to build connections and find mateship. From weekly barbecues and coffee catchups, to creatives arts or cooking groups, school holiday programs and more.

Everyone you will meet understands what it means to be part of the Defence community. To speak with us confidentially about joining Mates4Mates and our social connection activities, get in touch below. 

Mates4Mates has helped me to stay social. It gives me a reason to get out of the house and stay active while maintaining friendships.

Rob Veteran, QLD
If you are currently serving or are a veteran and have been impacted by your military service, you can register to become a Mate to access our services. Once you’ve registered, you can access any services if, and when, you need them. 
Once you’ve registered with Mates4Mates, you can access a wide range of social connection activities including barbecues, coffee catch ups, cycling groups, hikes, art classes, cooking classes, sport activities, school holiday programs and more.
A number of our social connection programs are open to partners and family members, including school holiday programs.
A fortnightly calendar of programs and activities is posted in our regional Facebook groups. On Facebook, search for ‘Mates4Mates North Queensland’, ‘Mates4Mates SE QLD’ or ‘Mates4Mates Tasmania’, depending on your location, and request to join the group to receive all the latest activity updates. You do not have to be a Mate to join the Facebook groups. By joining you also agree to the group rules as outlined in the groups ‘About’ section. 

Get in touch

To find out more about joining Mates4Mates, accessing services or supporting our cause, fill out our form or call 1300 4 MATES (62 837) during business hours.