The Veterans Grappling Foundation is a DGR-status registered charity dedicated to enhancing the lives of current and former Australian Defence Force members and first responders. We promote physical wellbeing, mental resilience, and community connection through the practice and values of Judo.
The Veterans Grappling Foundation (VGF) supports veterans and first responders across Australia through the discipline and community of Judo.
Our mission is to make Judo accessible to those who have served by providing scholarships that cover training costs at their local accredited Judo clubs. These scholarships allow participants to join a supportive community, rebuild confidence, improve wellbeing, and rediscover purpose through regular training and connection on the mats.
In addition to our scholarship program, VGF also runs Wellness Camps that bring veterans together for multi-day experiences focused on Judo, teamwork, and personal growth. These camps foster camaraderie, resilience, and a renewed sense of belonging — the same values that define both Judo and service life.
By partnering with Judo clubs around the country, VGF continues to grow its network and expand opportunities for veterans and first responders to train, recover, and thrive within their local communities.
The Veterans Grappling Foundation is proud to announce the upcoming launch of our Scholarship Program, designed to provide fully funded judo memberships for veterans and first responders at participating local clubs across Australia. This initiative removes financial barriers and increases access to the proven physical, mental, and social benefits of grappling-based training.
The scholarships are intended to support individuals seeking to improve:
Physical health and wellbeing
Mental resilience and stress management
Community connection and social support
Structure, purpose, and routine
Engagement in a positive, supportive training environment
As a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR)–endorsed charity, the Veterans Grappling Foundation is committed to delivering programs that create genuine, long-term impact. This Scholarship Program enables us to extend our reach nationwide, empowering veterans and first responders to train consistently, rebuild confidence, and strengthen their support networks through judo.
Further details regarding eligibility, application processes, and partner clubs will be released shortly. In the meantime, interested applicants are encouraged to complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) form below to register their interest and receive updates as the program launches.
Together, we roll forward.
The Veterans Grappling Foundation delivers Judo-focused Wellness Camps across Australia, designed specifically for members of the ADF veteran community who hold a DVA White or Gold Card.
These long-weekend residential camps provide a structured and supportive environment where veterans can reconnect with physical training, personal development, and community through the principles of judo. Each camp is delivered as an intensive multi-day educational program, combining technical judo training with evidence-based wellbeing and recovery practices.
Participants are supported by a Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) comprising nationally accredited Judo black belt instructors, physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, clinical psychologists, and experienced subject-matter experts. Sessions take place both on and off the mats, covering physical preparation, injury management, mental resilience, recovery strategies, goal setting, and sustainable performance beyond military service.
The camps are designed to equip veterans with practical tools to support their transition to civilian life—helping them stay active, connected, and purpose-driven long after the weekend concludes. Attendees have access to the MDT throughout the camp, ensuring meaningful engagement and individualised support.
If you are interested in attending a camp or assisting with the delivery of our programs, please contact us at
info@veteransgrappling.org.au
Your donation helps the Veterans Grappling Foundation, a DGR-registered charity, provide Judo training scholarships and wellness programs for veterans and first responders across Australia.
All donations made through the PayPal option above are fully tax-deductible, and you will automatically receive a tax-deductible receipt after completing your donation.
Thank you for helping us continue to serve those who served.
