October is Mental Health Month, and All Australian Energy, a local Kiama business is shining a light on the support services available to serving and former Defence Force members in the lead-up to Remembrance Day.

A recent Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) report revealed that suicide rates among Australian Defence Force (ADF) members have fallen to their lowest level in more than a decade, a positive sign partly attributed to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.

Despite this improvement, the statistics remain sobering.

Ex-serving ADF males are 26% more likely to die by suicide than other Australian men, and ex-serving females face twice the risk compared to other women.

Suicide is also the leading cause of death for over 40% of all former military members under 30.

These figures prompted All Australian Energy, a Kiama-based solar and battery company, to launch a fundraising drive and awareness campaign highlighting the mental health support available to veterans and their families.

All Australian Energy's Mateo Goytizolo, a former Army soldier, is driving the initiative, with the local business kicking things off with a $1000 donation to Legacy, a charity dedicated to supporting the families of veterans who have given their lives or health in service to their country.

“Legacy began in 1923 after a simple but powerful promise made in the trenches of the First World War: ‘It’s OK, we’ll look after the missus and the kids’,” explains Legacy Wollongong and South Coast president James Morris.

“A century later, that promise still guides us. Whether it’s a cuppa and a chat, help with housing or education, or simply providing a sense of community, Legacy walks with these families for as long as needed.”

As Remembrance Day approaches, Mateo is calling on other local businesses to join the effort by matching All Australian Energy's donation to Legacy.

The campaign also highlights the work of Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling, Australia’s leading provider of free mental health support for current and former ADF members and their families.

This cause is very close to Mateo's heart.

After being medically discharged from his role as an Infantry Soldier in the Army, he was supported by Open Arms as he transitioned back to civilian life.

His Kiama High School mates, Jaden Manley and Ben Falconer, were also instrumental in helping him find a new passion, as the trio launched their Kiama-based solar and battery installation company All Australian Energy.

“AAE gave me a new sense of purpose, something many veterans unfortunately never find after leaving the ADF,” says Mateo.

“Witnessing traumatic events, the stress of service, losing close friendship ties, and the difficulty of returning to civilian life can all lead to mental health struggles like PTSD, anxiety and depression.

“That’s why it’s so important to talk about these issues and make sure veterans know help is available.”

Open Arms, founded by Australia’s Vietnam veterans, provides free, confidential, 24/7 counselling through military-aware professionals, including counsellors, psychologists, peer workers and social workers.

The service also runs in-person and online group programs for veterans and their families.

Dale Caddy, assistant director of lived experience at Open Arms and a former ADF member, knows firsthand the difference early intervention can make.

“It’s OK to not be OK, and even more OK to put your hand up and ask for help,” says Dale.

“Open Arms has been a vital part of my recovery, and we want every veteran to know that help is here whenever it’s needed.”

Mateo hopes this campaign will not only raise funds for Legacy but also encourage more veterans and families to reach out to Open Arms for support.

“Remembrance Day isn’t just about honouring those who died in service,” Mateo says.

“It’s also about looking after current and former service members who are still with us.”

You can support Legacy’s work in helping veterans’ families by visiting legacy.com.au and making a donation.

Every contribution helps ensure the families of those who served are never left behind.

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