Macksville Hospital is proud to be a leader in creating a veteran-inclusive and culturally sensitive environment, both in its workplace and in the care it provides. As the first hospital in Australia to be recognised as a Veteran Employment Supporter by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Macksville Hospital is committed to meaningful veteran engagement and support.
Since 2018, the hospital has actively participated in Australian Defence Force (ADF) Transition Seminars, providing valuable information to veterans about employment opportunities within the NSW Health system, particularly in the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD). Macksville Hospital also collaborates with other Local Health Districts, including HNELHD and CCLHD, to develop targeted strategies for attracting and supporting transitioning ADF personnel.
The Deputy Director of Nursing plays a key role in veteran advocacy, contributing to the Veteran Employment Champions Network and ‘We’re Here,’ a local initiative supporting veterans relocating to the Nambucca Valley. Macksville Hospital honours veterans through visible displays, such as framed Australian Veterans' Covenants and a dedicated veteran information board in the Emergency Department.
Veterans and their families are further supported through partnerships with Mid North Coast Legacy, local RSL Veteran Case Workers, and regular veteran advocacy sessions.
Macksville Hospital has established itself as a national leader in championing veteran employment and creating a culturally sensitive healthcare environment for veterans. Through achieving Veteran Employment Supporter status, Macksville has set a new benchmark for integrating veteran-focused initiatives within healthcare settings. This pioneering recognition not only enhances the hospital’s standing but also provides a replicable model for other health institutions across Australia.
In addition to actively engaging with Australian Defence Force (ADF) Transition Seminars since 2018, the hospital’s swift adaptation to virtual seminars post-2020 ensured continuous, accessible engagement with veterans throughout the changing landscape. Since 2024, Macksville has expanded its leadership by collaborating with other Local Health Districts, including HNELHD and CCLHD, to develop sustainable, region-wide veteran employment strategies, further solidifying its impact.
Macksville Hospital’s workplace initiatives are equally innovative. The hospital proudly displays framed copies of the Australian Veterans' Covenant and maintains a dedicated whiteboard in the Emergency Department to provide veteran-specific resources. Staff who choose to can wear a Gold ADF Tri-service pin, a subtle but meaningful gesture of recognition and support. Additionally, Macksville’s partnership with Mid North Coast Legacy, local RSL Veteran Case Workers, and weekly veteran advocacy sessions ensures that veterans and their families receive comprehensive support throughout their care journey.
Through visible acknowledgments, community partnerships, and dedicated advocacy spaces, Macksville Hospital has developed a forward-thinking, inclusive model that seamlessly integrates healthcare, veteran employment, and community connection. Its leadership in this space continues to create lasting change, ensuring that veterans are valued, supported, and respected throughout their employment and healthcare experiences.