Join Jen for a step-by-step walk through on how to join the SVSP crew.

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Join Jen for a step-by-step walk through on how to register for an event.

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Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project (SVSP) is open to current and former Australian Defence Force members (and allied nations) and their families. Some events are also open to supporters, volunteers, and community partners who align with our values of connection, wellbeing, and inclusion.

No sailing experience is required. Many participants are completely new to sailing. Our programs are designed to be supportive, practical, and confidence-building, with experienced skippers and coaches guiding each session at a pace that suits the crew.

SVSP welcomes participants with physical injuries, mental health challenges, and disabilities. We adapt roles on board to suit individual needs and abilities. If you have specific concerns, let us know when registering so we can ensure a safe and positive experience.

Programs are primarily designed for adults. Family and youth participation may be available at selected events and will be clearly noted in event descriptions.

You do not need to be a strong swimmer to participate. Wearing a lifejacket is mandatory, and our programs focus on safe, controlled sailing in sheltered waters.

Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project is homeported in Manly on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and operates across multiple waterways. In New South Wales, SVSP sails on Sydney Harbour, Middle Harbour, Pittwater, Rushcutters Bay, Cronulla, Lake Macquarie, Gosford, and Newcastle, depending on the program and vessel.

SVSP also delivers programs interstate, including Mooloolaba (QLD) and Melbourne (VIC). To reduce social isolation in geographically isolated communities, we deploy fly-away instructor teams to deliver supported sailing experiences in regional and remote locations.

Event listings always include the exact meeting location, access details, and any location-specific information.

Weather is monitored closely. If conditions are unsafe, sessions may be modified, delayed, or cancelled. Participants will be notified as early as possible, with safety always the priority.

Most SVSP events are fully funded or heavily subsidised thanks to donations, grants, and our partners.

Some events may have a small contribution to assist with running costs, which will always be clearly stated before registration.

Yes. SVSP recognises that many sailors and crews choose to represent our veterans' sailing community at regattas, competitions, or accredited sailing courses beyond our scheduled events.

Through SVSP Scholarships, modest reimbursement assistance may be available for eligible individuals or crews who align with SVSP values and continue to build skills, confidence, and connection through sailing.

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DVA funding pathways may be available depending on individual circumstances and the type of program. We recommend speaking with your DVA rehabilitation provider or case manager and contacting SVSP if you require supporting information.

DVA may fund participation in psychosocial rehabilitation activities under its Rehabilitation Program. These activities aim to reduce barriers to wellbeing, support social connection in a civilian environment, and contribute to broader rehabilitation goals. All activities must be linked to an identified need and supported by professional advice.

Safety is central to everything we do. All sessions include safety briefings, qualified instructors or experienced skippers, and clear procedures. We operate in line with Australian Sailing guidelines and relevant maritime safety standards.

Approved lifejackets are provided and must be worn while on the water. Boats carry required safety equipment including radios, first-aid kits, and safety gear.

For specific activities, SVSP maintains a small equipment loan pool, includingPersonal Locator Beacons (PLBs), AIS beacons, and weather monitoring equipment, which can be temporarily issued to participants or crews when required.

A typical day includes a welcome and safety briefing, introduction to the boat and crew, hands-on sailing time, and opportunities to rotate through roles such as helming, trimming sails, and navigation. Sessions focus on teamwork, confidence, and enjoying time on the water.

We sail a mix of keelboats, performance yachts, and training vessels ranging from approximately 7 to 10 metres. Boats are selected to be stable, responsive, and suitable for learning, with experienced skippers on board at all times.

Most boats carry 4–6 participants plus a qualified skipper or coach. This ensures everyone has space, clear roles, and personalised guidance throughout the session.

Most sessions run for approximately three hours with a mixture of off & on the water training. Some special events, training days, or regattas may be longer and will be clearly outlined in the event description.

Yes. From time to time SVSP offers opportunities to support events through safety boat or powerboat roles, particularly for volunteers with relevant experience or qualifications.

SVSP is an Australian Sailing–affiliated club. Network Insurance proudly offers Australian Sailing affiliated clubs exclusive access to sailing travel insurance and personal injury insurance.

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We welcome volunteers as crew, skippers, shore support, and event helpers. Sailing experience is helpful but not always required. Volunteer opportunities are listed on our website or can be discussed by contacting the team.

Yes. We work with corporate, defence-aligned, and community partners through sponsorships, in-kind support, volunteering days, and wellbeing initiatives. Partnerships directly support veteran participation and program growth.

Donations can be made through our website and directly support sailing programs for veterans and their families. SVSP is a registered charity, and donations may be tax deductible.

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A DVA Wellbeing Advocate is a trained person who helps veterans and their families connect with the right support, services and information to improve their overall wellbeing. They are not DVA employees, but they are trained and accredited under the Department of Veterans’ Affairs’ advocacy framework. 

What a Wellbeing Advocate Does

A Wellbeing Advocate’s role focuses on quality-of-life support rather than just claims paperwork. That includes helping veterans and families to: 

Navigate support services

• Identify health, mental health, housing, financial, and social support options. 
• Connect you with appropriate local, community and government services (including referrals). 

Assist with life-related challenges

• Help with issues like employment, transitioning to civilian life and wellbeing needs. 
• Support and follow-up over time as needs change. 

Work as part of advocacy service teams

• They often form part of a wellbeing and compensation advocacy team with other advocates who may help with claims and appeals. 

Key Points

• Accredited and trained: They complete specific units in the Course in Military Advocacy through the Advocacy Training and Development Program (ATDP). 
• Usually volunteers: Many are veterans or veteran family members working via ESOs. 
• Not DVA staff: They operate independently to support people navigating DVA and related services. 

Difference from Other Roles

• Wellbeing Advocate = Support for quality of life, referrals and wellbeing navigation.
• Compensation Advocate = Help with preparing and lodging DVA compensation and entitlement claims.