Defence Kidz has entered a new and significant chapter, formally registering as a national charity and expanding its reach and impact for Defence and Veteran families across Australia. Founded by Veteran Spouse Hayley Boswell, the charity continues to shine a light on the often unseen experiences of children growing up in Defence families, while delivering practical, accessible support where it is needed most.
“What started as a way to help my own children understand Defence life has grown into something much bigger,” Hayley said. “Military children are resilient, adaptable and proud, but they also face unique challenges. They deserve to be recognised, supported and celebrated.”
In 2025, Defence Kidz launched the Defence Kidz Hub, a new online platform designed to remove barriers to support for families, schools and community organisations. The Hub provides a wide range of free downloadable resources, including activity sheets, classroom tools, craft templates, certificates, educational guides and child friendly information about Defence life. It has quickly become a central access point for military families seeking practical support without cost.
Alongside the Hub, Defence Kidz expanded its hands on support through a growing suite of children’s packs. These include deployment packs, transition to a new school packs, and themed resources aligned with major commemorations. Families can request these packs directly through the website, with hundreds already delivered to military children across Australia and to families posted overseas.
One Defence parent shared the impact of these resources on their family. “When my partner deployed, the pack helped my kids feel included and understood,” they said. “It gave us language to talk about what was happening and reminded them they are not alone.”
Advocacy has also remained a core focus. Defence Kidz successfully championed the creation of Veteran Families Day on 15 May each year, supported by the South Australian Government. This marked the first dedicated recognition day for veteran families in Australia. The charity also led advocacy to ensure all military children can be identified on school enrolment forms, improving visibility and enabling better support within education systems.
National connections have continued to strengthen through an expanding ambassador network, including senior Defence leaders and well known media personalities who help amplify the voices of military children. Events have also grown nationally, bringing families together to celebrate their shared experiences and build connection.
Looking ahead, the momentum shows no sign of slowing. “2026 is shaping up to be our biggest year yet,” Hayley said. “We have new children’s stories in development, stronger partnerships taking shape, and expanded resources and events planned, all driven by a clear commitment to ensuring every Defence child is seen, supported and valued.”
Through advocacy, storytelling and community driven support, Defence Kidz continues to redefine how Australia recognises and supports its youngest Defence family members.
To learn more go to www.defencekidz.org.au or follow us on Facebook @defencekidz
