TheRoyal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association (RNZRSA) received a Government grant of $2 million in September 2020. Due to the large number of applications, RNZRSA are now only accepting urgent applications for financial assistance.
The RNZRSA COVID-19 Fund provides support to serving and ex-serving members of the New Zealand Defence Force, and whānau, who are facing urgent financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
To find out if you or someone you know is eligible for urgent financial assistance, please contact your local district support manager:
RNZRSA Government Grant
Service and ex-service people, and their families sometimes find themselves in need of financial assistance. Because of the unique sacrifice required by military service, ex and current military people and families are eligible to apply for financial assistance from the RNZRSA.
We will not be processing anymore Government Covid Fund applications due to reduced staffing levels over Christmas. We will resume processing applications on the 18th of January 2021.
We will however consider applications that are considered an emergency. Please click the button below to talk to your local District Support manager.
The Government has provided the RNZRSA with a $2 million fund to support NZDF serving and ex- serving people and their whanau /families that are facing hardship as a result of Covid.
RNZRSA Government Grant
Service and ex-service people, and their families sometimes find themselves in need of financial assistance. Because of the unique sacrifice required by military service, ex and current military people and families are eligible to apply for financial assistance from the RNZRSA.
Who is Eligible?
Current and ex-servicing NZDF military personnel and their families/whanau.
Applications will be assessed on a needs-basis to alleviate financial, medical and educational hardship.
* District or local RSAs are able to apply on behalf of applicants.
What can we assist with?
Welfare applications may include but are not limited to applications related to:
Emergency accommodation and meals (short duration)
Assistance with essential day to day expenses such as electricity, phone, internet, water, rates, groceries (short duration)
Emergency counselling or other heath professional support
Providing an emotional support person, covering their travel, meals and accommodation for the period of the emergency
Medical expenses to relieve suffering or stabilise a medical condition
Dental appointments to relieve suffering
A single rent or mortgage payment
Unexpected and overwhelming debt which adversely effects an applicant’s welfare, and health and safety
What don't we assist with?
Welfare applications will not be approved for:
Medical therapies provided by the public health system
Surgical treatment provided by the public health system
Cosmetic surgery
Complimentary or alternative health care, overseas travel including travel for medical treatments
Credit card debt
Alcohol and non prescription drugs
Investments in business ventures
Financial investments
How to apply?
You can apply for yourself or on behalf of someone in need.
We recommend you talk with your District Support Manager who can provide you with advice around your particular situation.
If you wish to apply directly, please;
Download the application form below
Fill in the application to the best of your ability
Attach supporting evidence of need, including
Proof of service
A bank statement showing your account name and number (for payment)
Other evidence that provides context to your need for a grant (for example photos, building reports, quotes, etc)
Send application and supporting documentation to grants@rsa.org.nz
*If you are having difficulty completing the application please contact your District Support Manager for assistance.
Although we are currently NOT taking new applications we will consider applications that are considered an emergency.
Please click the button below to talk to your local District Support manager.
