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ACU celebrates student veterans making a difference at university and beyond

Australian Catholic University student veterans who are making a difference on campus and in their communities have been recognised at the 2026 Student Veteran Impact Awards.

Key points:

• ACU’s annual Student Veteran Impact Awards celebrate students from the university’s veteran entry pathway who have demonstrated empathy, service and advocacy.
• ACU was the first university in Australia to implement a comprehensive credit recognition framework for current and former ADF members and their families.

Paramedicine student Damon Holmes, 26, won the Sir Peter Cosgrove Veterans Award for his exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to fostering inclusive communities across ACU, and the broader veteran, Indigenous, and healthcare sectors.

“I am honoured to have my work and efforts seen, but I’m also excited to have the opportunity to represent the many veterans that put in so much work for the community,” Damon said.

Damon (pictured left), who still serves in the Army Reserve part-time while studying, said he often reflected on his first days at university, as he made the transition to civilian life and study.

“I was a little intimidated in those early days - it is such a competitive degree and university, and looking back now, I appreciate the magnitude of the journey and how far it has taken me,” he said.

“It is heartening to see the opportunities that ACU provides for veterans, with our own space on campus, support services, ambassadorship and even employment opportunities.

“ACU has managed to create an environment where veterans are encouraged to connect, support one another and have a place to belong – it’s more than just a place to study.”

As Damon prepares to graduate, he’s looking at new ways to serve society as a paramedic.

“I enjoy the lights and sirens, the high-pressure environment, and work where I can really make a difference.”

Exercise and sports science student Alexander Weddell, 22, won this year’s Student Veteran Impact Award (Continuing) for his commitment to supporting the student veteran community while balancing full-time study and ongoing service in the Australian Army Reserve.

Alexander (pictured left) is a recipient of the RSL NSW Veteran and Family Scholarship and says he is proud to receive recognition at this year’s awards.

“I was genuinely surprised and grateful - it means a lot to me,” Alex said.

“Veterans bring a unique skillset and perspective to university. It’s often difficult to put into words, but their discipline, resilience, and approach to studying make their contributions worth recognizing.”

Alexander is still serving part-time and juggling study – enjoying the best of both worlds.

“While I’m serving in the Army Reserve, I wanted to pursue a degree to broaden my career opportunities and develop my passion for exercise and sports science,” he said.

“The contrast between both worlds is striking. One week I’m out in the field, operating in a military environment, and the next I’m sitting in lectures.

“Adjusting between them can be challenging, but ACU has given me unwavering support – I’d encourage other veterans to take that step, knowing there’s a welcoming community ready to support them.”

Physiotherapy student Chelsea Rosewarne, 19, took out the ACU Student Veteran Impact Award for her leadership, service, and community engagement across organisations dedicated to health, education, safety, and social inclusion.

Alongside her degree, she is completing a certificate IV Allied Health Assistance (rehabilitation and reablement) and serves as an Officer Cadet (OCDT) in the Australian Army Reserves.

“For me, this recognition is an opportunity to encourage others to pursue their ambitions and make a positive impact,” she said.

Chelsea has been a volunteer and senior lifeguard with Lifesaving Victoria for 14 years and is the recipient of the prestigious Gallipoli Scholarship.

“I am proud of the contributions I’ve made, and I see a powerful connection between the values that have shaped my journey and the values here at ACU,” she said.

“I have always been driven by the belief that we each have a responsibility to make a positive impact in our communities.

“For me, university and military service have never been separate pursuits. They are complementary opportunities to learn, lead, develop resilience and contribute to something greater than myself.”

Chelsea has been inspired by her family connections to the ADF, which span the Army, RAAF and cadets.

“The guidance and support of my parents and grandparents who have served for over 20 years have helped shape my understanding of duty, discipline, teamwork and community responsibility,” Chelsea said.

“Growing up with these connections gave me an appreciation for the commitment involved in serving others and the values that underpin military life. Military families also bring their own experiences of commitment, sacrifice, change and community.”

Her advice for ADF personnel and their families considering applying for university is simple: “have the courage to begin”.

“Your next chapter is not about leaving your past behind; it is about building on your strengths, discovering your potential and helping others flourish along the way.”

ACU Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Zlatko Skrbis (pictured left with Damon Holmes and Chelsea Rosewarne) said that commitment to service was a common thread within the defence community.

“These awards recognise the leadership and generosity of our student veterans, and the meaningful difference they make in the lives of others,” Professor Skrbis said.

“We are proud to celebrate their contributions and the unique experience, perspective and spirit of service they bring to ACU, and beyond.”

Since expanding its ground-breaking support framework by extending the Veteran Entry Program (VEP) to immediate family members of serving and ex-Australian Defence Force personnel, ACU has removed many barriers to higher education for the defence community.

ACU was the first university in Australia to implement a comprehensive credit recognition framework for current and former Australian Defence Force members and their families.

ACU also offers a range of tailored entry pathways, transition-to-study programs, ongoing academic support and opportunities to build connection and belonging on campus and beyond.