An Enduring Legacy,
100 Years On
Legacy was founded in 1923 on a simple promise from one digger to another – to “look after the family.”
Legacy Week began in the 1940s to show support and raise funds for the widow/ers and children whose loved ones have served our country. The Legacy badge is a special emblem symbolising our nation’s greatest values of mate ship, compassion and fairness.
Today, Legacy supports 34,000 partners and children of veterans who gave their lives or health serving our country – but we can’t do it without help from people like you.
Our Enduring Impact
Relieving financial hardship
We ensure beneficiaries receive government benefits or pensions they are entitled to. If needed, we will provide a one-off payment to assist during an emergency. We ensure beneficiaries can access health and medical support, and live independently.
Social connection services
We strive to ensure that no person faces social isolation. We have clubs, local events, holidays, and camps where widows, children and families can come together to bond and create friendships.
Developmental opportunities
We have a long history of nurturing the development of children through: grants and scholarships; mentoring programs for children that assist with education and life choices; adventure activities and holiday camps.
Our Journey
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1918Origins
Soldiers saw the devastation on the Western Front, France. -
1923Legacy is formed
Returned serviceman Sir John Gellibrand founded the Remembrance Club in Hobart, assisting returned veterans to find work. Months later, Captain Stanley Savige started Legacy in Melbourne. -
1925A new focus
Legacy began assisting widows and children of deceased or injured servicemen. -
1942Fundraising begins
With the outbreak of WW2, a War Orphans Appeal started in 1942 to raise funds for the widows and children of soldiers who did not return. Today, this appeal is known as Legacy Week. -
1962Vietnam
The widows and children of Vietnam veterans came into Legacy's care.
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1990Modern conflicts
Members of the Australian Defence Force serve in Afghanistan, Iraq, the Middle East and on peacekeeping operations. -
1991Australians at war
More than 72,000 members of the Australian Defence Force have served overseas since 1991, more than the number who served overseas from 1950 to 1990. -
2000sPost Traumatic Stress Disorder
Legacy has always cared for the widows of veterans. Now with the recognition of mental trauma and PTSD as a result of war, Legacy cares for and supports families who are suffering from the effects of this condition and other mental health illnesses. -
Today
Legacy currently supports 40,000 individuals and families across Australia, supported by over 3,400 volunteer members, Legatees.
By volunteering to raise funds for Legacy Week 2024, you can help us continue to support families who come to us in their darkest moment give them hope for a brighter future.
