--- title: VBC FAQ description: We exist to support veteran owned businesses become profitable and resilient. image: https://veteranbc.com/hs-fs/hubfs/VBC%20LOGO-1-2.png?width=440&height=310&name=VBC%20LOGO-1-2.png --- [![VBC LOGO-17](https://veteranbc.com/hs-fs/hubfs/VBC%20LOGO-17.png?width=145&height=102&name=VBC%20LOGO-17.png "VBC LOGO-17")](https://vcbc.org.au) VBC Help Centre # How can we help? Everything you need to know about Veteran Business Community, membership, verification, veteran-owned status, products, events and opportunities. Everything you need, in one place ## Find the answer you're looking for. Browse the sections below and click any question to expand the answer. We've grouped everything together so you can quickly find what is relevant to you and your business. [Getting Started](https://veteranbc.com/vbc-faq#getting-started) [Products](https://veteranbc.com/vbc-faq#products) [Verification](https://veteranbc.com/vbc-faq#verification) [Ownership & Status](https://veteranbc.com/vbc-faq#ownership) [Documents](https://veteranbc.com/vbc-faq#documents) [Onboarding](https://veteranbc.com/vbc-faq#onboarding) [Membership & Badges](https://veteranbc.com/vbc-faq#membership) [Events & Resources](https://veteranbc.com/vbc-faq#more) 01 Start Here ## About VBC Understand the Veteran Business Community, the free VBC Network and what becoming a VBC member means. What is the Veteran Business Community? Veteran Business Community (VBC) is Australia's market infrastructure for veteran-owned businesses. VBC works to strengthen the veteran business ecosystem by: - Verifying veteran-owned businesses - Connecting buyers with trusted suppliers - Creating commercial opportunities - Supporting business growth - Advocating for veteran enterprise What is the VBC Network? The VBC Network is a way to connect with the broader veteran business community. There are no eligibility or verification requirements to join. **Price: Free.** Joining the VBC Network does not make you a VBC member and does not mean you or your business has been verified by VBC. Who can join the VBC Network? Anyone can join the VBC Network. It is suitable for: - Veterans exploring business - Transitioning members - Veteran families - Businesses interested in the veteran business community - Anyone wanting to stay connected with VBC What is a VBC member? VBC membership is separate from participation in the VBC Network. VBC members must meet the applicable membership requirements and complete VBC verification. **All VBC members are verified, regardless of the VBC product they purchase.** 02 Choose Your Path ## VBC Products VBC has four core offerings. Each serves a different purpose, and you don't need to access every product. What products does VBC offer? #### Network **Purpose:** Stay connected to the veteran business community. **Best for:** Individuals and businesses wanting to participate in the broader VBC community. **Price: Free** Network participation does not constitute VBC membership and does not require verification. #### Verification **Purpose:** Provide additional formal recognition and value for businesses that want to leverage their verified veteran-owned status. **Best for:** Verified veteran-owned businesses wanting to strengthen credibility, support procurement activity and maximise the commercial value of their VBC veteran-owned recognition. **Price: $200 per year, excluding GST, commencing three months after sign-up.** Getting verified does not determine whether your business is Registered or Certified VBC Veteran-Owned. These are verification statuses based on veteran ownership and, where applicable, effective control. #### Alliance **Purpose:** Build meaningful business relationships through strategic introductions, referrals and curated networking. **Best for:** Businesses looking for growth, partnerships and commercial opportunities. **Price: $100 per month, excluding GST.** Alliance provides opportunities to connect with other veteran-owned businesses, participate in events, receive strategic introductions and access relevant commercial and procurement opportunities. #### Advisory **Purpose:** Receive structured coaching, accountability and business growth support. **Best for:** Business owners wanting expert guidance to scale their business. **Price: $750 per month, excluding GST.** 03 Verification ## Getting Verified How VBC confirms veteran service, residency, business ownership and veteran ownership. What is VBC verification? Verification is the process VBC uses to confirm information including: - Veteran service - Australian residency - Business ownership - Veteran ownership percentage - Effective control, where applicable All VBC members complete verification regardless of the product they purchase. Who is eligible for veteran verification? Applicants must: - Own a business - Have served in the Australian Defence Force or the armed forces of another country - Be a current Australian resident The age of the business does not affect eligibility. What happens when my business is verified? Veteran-owned businesses receive one of two verification statuses. **Certified VBC Veteran-Owned** — verified veterans own 51% or more of the business. **Registered VBC Veteran-Owned** — verified veterans own 50% or less of the business and can demonstrate meaningful ownership and effective control. Your status is determined by the ownership structure of your business, not by the VBC product you purchase. 04 Your Status ## Ownership & Business Structures How Certified and Registered status is determined across different ownership arrangements and business structures. What is Certified VBC Veteran-Owned? A business is Certified VBC Veteran-Owned where verified veterans own **51% or more** of the business. What is Registered VBC Veteran-Owned? A business is Registered VBC Veteran-Owned where verified veterans own **50% or less** of the business and can demonstrate meaningful veteran ownership and effective control. What if ownership is exactly 50/50? A business with equal veteran and non-veteran ownership is Registered VBC Veteran-Owned, subject to the veteran demonstrating effective control. What if multiple veterans own the business? Their verified ownership shares are combined to determine the business's veteran-owned status. - Two verified veterans owning 30% each = 60% combined veteran ownership → **Certified** - Two verified veterans owning 25% each = 50% combined veteran ownership → **Registered**, subject to effective control Proof of veteran service is required for every veteran whose ownership is included in the combined veteran ownership percentage. What does “control” mean? Control refers to the veteran's ability to make or influence key decisions within the business. It demonstrates that the veteran is actively involved in leading or directing the organisation. Can sole traders be verified? Yes. The veteran must be the registered owner of the business. A verified veteran sole trader has 100% ownership and therefore receives Certified VBC Veteran-Owned status. How are companies assessed? Company ownership is determined by shareholding. - 51% or more verified veteran ownership → Certified - 50% or less → Registered, subject to meaningful ownership and effective control - No veteran ownership → Not eligible for veteran-owned verification How are trusts assessed? Trusts are assessed according to their individual structure. Supporting documentation may include: - Trust Deed - Corporate Trustee documents - ASIC documentation where applicable - Other evidence demonstrating that the veteran owns or controls the trust What if my business operates through a holding company? Where a veteran owns a holding company that owns operating businesses, VBC will generally verify the holding company. Where ownership of the holding company and operating entities can be demonstrated, the verified ownership status may apply across eligible entities within the group. Can spouses and partners of veterans participate in VBC? Yes. Veteran family businesses, including businesses owned by spouses and partners of veterans, are welcome to participate in the VBC community and may access eligible products. Applicants seeking membership must meet the applicable requirements and provide evidence of their relationship to the veteran. Evidence may include: - Marriage certificate - Evidence of a de facto relationship - Civil partnership certificate - Other official documentation demonstrating the relationship What happens if my business ownership changes? You must notify VBC if your business ownership changes. VBC may need to review your verification and request updated documentation. A change in veteran ownership may also change your business from Registered to Certified status, or from Certified to Registered status. 05 What You'll Need ## Verification Documents The evidence VBC may need to confirm service, residency and business ownership. What documents will I need? Requirements depend on your business structure, but generally include: - Proof of Australian residency - Proof of veteran service - Proof of business ownership - Identity verification - Required business information Additional evidence may be requested where necessary. What can I provide as proof of veteran service? Examples include: - Certificate of Service - Certificate of Discharge - DVA Gold Card - DVA White Card - Service records - Other official Defence or military documentation Overseas military service is accepted where appropriate official evidence can be provided. What documents prove business ownership? #### Sole Trader ABN registration can be used to demonstrate ownership. #### Company A current ASIC Company Extract showing directors, shareholders and shareholdings is required. ASIC documentation must be from within the previous 12 months. #### Trust Documentation must demonstrate that the applicant owns or controls the trust or corporate trustee. Why do I need an ASIC Company Extract? An ASIC Company Extract provides evidence of the legal ownership structure of a company. VBC determines company ownership using shareholding rather than relying on directorship or management roles. Being a director, CEO, founder or manager does not automatically mean you own the business. 06 What Happens Next ## Onboarding What to expect when completing verification and submitting your business information. What does onboarding involve? VBC onboarding involves two main steps: 1. **Complete identity and veteran verification.** Complete the required secure identity and veteran verification. 2. **Provide your business information.** Complete the required onboarding information and provide the relevant business documentation. What happens after I submit my information? The VBC team will review your information and supporting evidence. Once everything required has been completed: - Verification is finalised - Your Registered or Certified status is determined - Your membership is activated - Welcome communications are sent - Your applicable benefits are activated If additional information is required, the VBC team will contact you. Can I participate in VBC without being verified? Yes, through the VBC Network. There are no eligibility or verification requirements to participate in the Network. Joining the Network allows you to participate in the broader VBC community, but it does not make you a VBC member or mean that your business has been verified. 07 Membership ## Badges, Organisations & Billing Using your VBC status, charity participation, payments, cancellations and refunds. What VBC badge will my business receive? Your badge reflects your verified veteran-owned status. Certified VBC Veteran-Owned businesses receive the Certified VBC Veteran-Owned badge. Registered VBC Veteran-Owned businesses receive the Registered VBC Veteran-Owned badge. Your badge is based on the outcome of verification, not the VBC product you purchase. When can I use my badge? You can use your VBC Veteran-Owned badge once verification has been completed and your status has been approved. Badges cannot be used while verification is still in progress. Where can I use my badge? - Your website - Email signatures - Social media - Capability statements - Tender responses - Marketing materials Can charities and not-for-profits join VBC? Yes. Eligible Australian charities and not-for-profit organisations supporting the veteran community can join VBC through **VBC Alliance – Verified Veteran Community Business.** Unlike veteran-owned businesses, charities and not-for-profits are not verified based on ownership. VBC instead considers the organisation's veteran-focused purpose and veteran leadership. What are the charity and not-for-profit eligibility requirements? - Be a registered Australian charity or not-for-profit - Demonstrate that supporting veterans or veteran families forms part of its purpose - Have a veteran in a leadership or decision-making role Eligible organisations receive **50% off** the standard VBC Alliance membership fee. What documentation is required for eligible organisations? - Proof of charity or not-for-profit registration - Proof of veteran service for the nominated veteran - Evidence the veteran holds a leadership or decision-making role - Evidence of the organisation's veteran-focused purpose What recognition will an eligible organisation receive? - Become a VBC Alliance member - Be recognised as a VBC Verified Veteran Charity - Receive the VBC Verified Veteran Charity badge - Receive the applicable 75% discount on the standard VBC Alliance membership fee How are paid VBC products billed? - **Verification:** $200 per year excluding GST, commencing three months after sign-up - **Alliance:** $100 per month excluding GST - **Advisory:** $750 per month excluding GST Can I cancel? Yes. You can cancel at any time. Once your cancellation takes effect, your VBC membership will end and all associated services, benefits, representation and use of VBC badging will cease. Are refunds available? Refund requests are considered on a case-by-case basis. Contact VBC if you would like to request a refund. What happens if my payment fails? Failed payments will generally be retried automatically. If you need to take action, VBC will contact you and may ask you to update your payment method using a secure payment link. 08 Connect & Grow ## Opportunities, Events & Resources Procurement, networking, VetCon, the VBC Podcast, community channels and useful business resources. What is the Veteran Procurement Program? The Veteran Procurement Program connects government, corporate and Defence buyers with verified veteran-owned businesses. Its purpose is to make it easier for buyers to identify trusted veteran suppliers. Does being VBC verified guarantee contracts? **No.** VBC verification and Registered or Certified VBC Veteran-Owned status do not automatically make your business eligible for, or guarantee, government, corporate or Defence contracts. VBC works to increase recognition of veteran-owned businesses and improve access to supply chains and procurement opportunities. Relevant procurement or tender opportunities may be shared with suitable businesses where VBC becomes aware of them. Should I include my VBC status in tenders? Yes. Where relevant, include your Certified VBC Veteran-Owned or Registered VBC Veteran-Owned status in tender submissions. This demonstrates that your veteran-owned status has been independently verified. What events does VBC run? VBC hosts a range of events throughout the year to bring together the veteran business community, build connections and create opportunities. Core recurring events include: - VBC Networking Sessions - Lunch in the Mess - VetCon What are VBC Networking Sessions? VBC Networking Sessions are held weekly and are open to everyone, regardless of VBC membership or verification status. They provide an opportunity to connect with the broader veteran business community, build relationships and learn more about VBC. [Book a Networking Session →](https://calendly.com/peter-veteranbc/veteran-owned-business-networking-session) What is Lunch in the Mess? Lunch in the Mess is VBC's monthly digital networking session for VBC members. - **Frequency:** Monthly - **Format:** Digital - **Access:** VBC members What is VetCon? VetCon is VBC's annual veteran business conference, first launched in 2026. The conference brings together the veteran business community and includes the Veteran Business Awards, recognising achievements within the veteran business sector. Access and registration requirements are specific to each VetCon event. Does VBC run other events? Yes. VBC may host or participate in additional events throughout the year. Access and registration requirements may vary by event. What is the VBC Podcast? The VBC Podcast shares stories, experiences and insights from across the veteran business community. It features conversations with veteran business owners and other guests relevant to the VBC community. Where can I listen to the VBC Podcast? [Spotify →](https://open.spotify.com/show/3J5xETQmJzNbXM4agGrDv9) [Apple Podcasts →](https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/veteran-business-community-podcast/id1657948200) [YouTube →](https://www.youtube.com/@veteranbc) Can I apply to be a podcast guest? Yes. VBC members interested in appearing on the podcast can express their interest below. [Express Interest →](https://meetings.hubspot.com/peteliston/mm4b-pod) Submitting an expression of interest does not guarantee an appearance. Guest participation is subject to VBC review and suitability. Where can I find the VBC website and app? [VBC Website →](https://veteranbc.com/) [VBC App – Google Play →](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.veteranbusiness.community) [VBC App – App Store →](https://apps.apple.com/ph/app/vbc/id6752775412) Where can I follow VBC? [LinkedIn →](https://www.linkedin.com/company/veteran-business-community) [Facebook →](https://www.facebook.com/veteranbusinesscommunity/) [TikTok →](https://www.tiktok.com/@veteranbc) [YouTube →](https://www.youtube.com/@veteranbc) Where can I find procurement and business opportunities? #### Veteran Industry Portal powered by BenchOn Connect with buyers and suppliers and access relevant tenders, contracts and business opportunities. [Visit the Veteran Industry Portal →](https://vbc.benchon.com/) #### Gateway by ICN Register to compete for government and corporate projects. [Visit Gateway by ICN →](https://gateway.icn.org.au/join?CampaignID=397) Need a hand? ## Still have a question? If you have questions about VBC membership, verification, products or your application, contact the VBC team for assistance. [hello@veteranbc.com](mailto:hello@veteranbc.com) © 2026 Veteran Business Community ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://veteranbc.com/help-centre#webpage", "@type" : "FAQPage", "about" : { "@id" : "https://veteranbc.com/#organization" }, "breadcrumb" : { "@id" : "https://veteranbc.com/help-centre#breadcrumb" }, "description" : "Answers about VBC, joining the community, membership, verification, veteran-owned status, products, events and commercial opportunities.", "inLanguage" : "en-AU", "isPartOf" : { "@id" : "https://veteranbc.com/#website" }, "mainEntity" : [ { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Veteran Business Community (VBC) is Australia's market infrastructure for veteran-owned businesses. VBC verifies veteran-owned businesses, connects buyers with trusted suppliers, creates commercial opportunities, supports business growth and advocates for veteran enterprise." }, "name" : "What is the Veteran Business Community?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "The VBC Network is a way to connect with the broader veteran business community. There are no eligibility or verification requirements to join. Joining the VBC Network does not make you a VBC member and does not mean you or your business has been verified by VBC. Price: Free." }, "name" : "What is the VBC Network?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Anyone can join the VBC Network. It is suitable for veterans exploring business, transitioning members, veteran families, businesses interested in the veteran business community and anyone who wants to stay connected with VBC." }, "name" : "Who can join the VBC Network?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "VBC membership is separate from participation in the VBC Network. VBC members must meet the applicable membership requirements and complete VBC verification. All VBC members are verified, regardless of the VBC product they purchase." }, "name" : "What is a VBC member?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "VBC has four core offerings: Network, Certification, Alliance and Advisory. Network is free and helps people stay connected. Certification provides formal recognition for verified veteran-owned businesses and costs AUD 200 per year excluding GST, commencing three months after sign-up. Alliance supports introductions, referrals and curated networking and costs AUD 100 per month excluding GST. Advisory provides structured coaching, accountability and business growth support and costs AUD 750 per month excluding GST. You do not need to access every product." }, "name" : "What products does VBC offer?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Verification is the process VBC uses to confirm veteran service, Australian residency, business ownership, veteran ownership percentage and effective control where applicable. Verification is not a VBC product. All VBC members complete verification regardless of the product they purchase." }, "name" : "What is VBC verification?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Applicants must own a business, have served in the Australian Defence Force or the armed forces of another country, and be a current Australian resident. The age of the business does not affect eligibility." }, "name" : "Who is eligible for veteran verification?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A veteran-owned business receives one of two statuses. Certified VBC Veteran-Owned applies where verified veterans own 51% or more of the business. Registered VBC Veteran-Owned applies where verified veterans own 50% or less of the business and can demonstrate meaningful ownership and effective control. Status is determined by the ownership structure, not by the VBC product purchased." }, "name" : "What happens when my business is verified?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A business is Certified VBC Veteran-Owned where verified veterans own 51% or more of the business." }, "name" : "What is Certified VBC Veteran-Owned?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A business is Registered VBC Veteran-Owned where verified veterans own 50% or less of the business and can demonstrate meaningful veteran ownership and effective control." }, "name" : "What is Registered VBC Veteran-Owned?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A business with equal veteran and non-veteran ownership is Registered VBC Veteran-Owned, subject to the veteran demonstrating effective control." }, "name" : "What if ownership is exactly 50/50?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "The verified ownership shares of multiple veterans are combined to determine the business's status. Two verified veterans owning 30% each have 60% combined veteran ownership and qualify as Certified. Two verified veterans owning 25% each have 50% combined veteran ownership and qualify as Registered, subject to effective control. Proof of service is required for every veteran whose ownership is counted." }, "name" : "What if multiple veterans own the business?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Control refers to the veteran's ability to make or influence key decisions within the business. It demonstrates that the veteran is actively involved in leading or directing the organisation." }, "name" : "What does control mean?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Requirements depend on the business structure, but generally include proof of Australian residency, proof of veteran service, proof of business ownership, identity verification and required business information. VBC may request additional evidence where necessary." }, "name" : "What documents will I need?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Examples include a Certificate of Service, Certificate of Discharge, DVA Gold Card, DVA White Card, service records or other official Defence or military documentation. Overseas military service is accepted where appropriate official evidence can be provided." }, "name" : "What can I provide as proof of veteran service?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "For a sole trader, ABN registration can demonstrate ownership. For a company, VBC requires a current ASIC Company Extract from within the previous 12 months showing directors, shareholders and shareholdings. For a trust, documentation must demonstrate that the applicant owns or controls the trust or corporate trustee." }, "name" : "What documents prove business ownership?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "An ASIC Company Extract provides evidence of a company's legal ownership structure. VBC determines company ownership using shareholding rather than directorship or management roles. Being a director, CEO, founder or manager does not automatically mean that you own the business." }, "name" : "Why do I need an ASIC Company Extract?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Yes. The veteran must be the registered owner of the business. A verified veteran sole trader has 100% ownership and therefore receives Certified VBC Veteran-Owned status." }, "name" : "Can sole traders be verified?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Company ownership is determined by shareholding. Verified veteran ownership of 51% or more is Certified. Verified veteran ownership of 50% or less is Registered, subject to meaningful ownership and effective control. A company with no veteran ownership is not eligible for veteran-owned verification." }, "name" : "How are companies assessed?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Trusts are assessed according to their individual structure. Supporting documents may include a Trust Deed, Corporate Trustee documents, ASIC documentation where applicable and other evidence demonstrating that the veteran owns or controls the trust." }, "name" : "How are trusts assessed?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Where a veteran owns a holding company that owns operating businesses, VBC will generally verify the holding company. Where ownership of the holding company and operating entities can be demonstrated, the verified ownership status may apply across eligible entities within the group." }, "name" : "What if my business operates through a holding company?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Yes. Veteran family businesses, including businesses owned by spouses and partners of veterans, are welcome to participate in the VBC community and may access eligible products. Applicants seeking membership must meet the applicable requirements and provide evidence of their relationship to the veteran, such as a marriage certificate, evidence of a de facto relationship, civil partnership certificate or other official documentation." }, "name" : "Can spouses and partners of veterans participate in VBC?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "VBC onboarding involves two main steps: complete the required secure identity and veteran verification, then provide the required business information and relevant business documentation." }, "name" : "What does onboarding involve?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "The VBC team reviews the information and supporting evidence. Once all requirements are complete, verification is finalised, Registered or Certified status is determined, membership is activated, welcome communications are sent and applicable benefits are activated. VBC will contact the applicant if more information is required." }, "name" : "What happens after I submit my information?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Yes, through the VBC Network. There are no eligibility or verification requirements to participate in the Network. Network participation does not make you a VBC member or mean that your business has been verified." }, "name" : "Can I participate in VBC without being verified?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A business verified as Certified VBC Veteran-Owned receives the Certified badge. A business verified as Registered VBC Veteran-Owned receives the Registered badge. The badge is based on the outcome of verification, not on the VBC product purchased." }, "name" : "What VBC badge will my business receive?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "You can use your VBC Veteran-Owned badge once verification has been completed and your status has been approved. Badges cannot be used while verification is in progress." }, "name" : "When can I use my badge?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Approved badges can be used on your website, in email signatures, on social media, in capability statements, in tender responses and in marketing materials." }, "name" : "Where can I use my badge?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "You must notify VBC if your business ownership changes. VBC may review your verification and request updated documentation. A change in veteran ownership may also change the business from Registered to Certified status or from Certified to Registered status." }, "name" : "What happens if my business ownership changes?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Yes. Eligible Australian charities and not-for-profit organisations supporting the veteran community can join through VBC Alliance as a Verified Veteran Community Business. These organisations are assessed on veteran-focused purpose and veteran leadership rather than ownership." }, "name" : "Can charities and not-for-profits join VBC?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "The organisation must be a registered Australian charity or not-for-profit, demonstrate that supporting veterans or veteran families forms part of its purpose, and have a veteran in a leadership or decision-making role. Eligible organisations receive 75% off the standard VBC Alliance membership fee." }, "name" : "What are the eligibility requirements for charities and not-for-profits?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Organisations must provide proof of charity or not-for-profit registration, proof of veteran service for the nominated veteran, evidence that the veteran holds a leadership or decision-making role, and evidence of the organisation's veteran-focused purpose." }, "name" : "What documentation is required for charities and not-for-profits?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Once approved, the organisation becomes a VBC Alliance member, is recognised as a VBC Verified Veteran Charity, receives the VBC Verified Veteran Charity badge and receives the applicable 75% discount on the standard VBC Alliance membership fee." }, "name" : "What recognition will an eligible charity or not-for-profit receive?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "The Veteran Procurement Program connects government, corporate and Defence buyers with verified veteran-owned businesses. Its purpose is to make it easier for buyers to identify trusted veteran suppliers." }, "name" : "What is the Veteran Procurement Program?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "No. VBC verification and Registered or Certified VBC Veteran-Owned status do not automatically make a business eligible for, or guarantee, government, corporate or Defence contracts. VBC works to improve recognition and access, and may share relevant opportunities with suitable businesses." }, "name" : "Does being VBC verified guarantee contracts?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Yes. Where relevant, include your Certified VBC Veteran-Owned or Registered VBC Veteran-Owned status in tender submissions. This demonstrates that your veteran-owned status has been independently verified." }, "name" : "Should I include my VBC status in tenders?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Current pricing is AUD 200 per year excluding GST for Certification, commencing three months after sign-up; AUD 100 per month excluding GST for Alliance; and AUD 750 per month excluding GST for Advisory." }, "name" : "How are paid VBC products billed?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Yes. You can cancel at any time. Once cancellation takes effect, VBC membership ends and all associated services, benefits, representation and use of VBC badging cease." }, "name" : "Can I cancel?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Refund requests are considered on a case-by-case basis. Contact VBC if you would like to request a refund." }, "name" : "Are refunds available?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Failed payments will generally be retried automatically. If action is required, VBC will contact you and may ask you to update your payment method using a secure payment link." }, "name" : "What happens if my payment fails?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "VBC hosts events throughout the year to bring together the veteran business community, build connections and create opportunities. Core recurring events include VBC Networking Sessions, Lunch in the Mess and VetCon." }, "name" : "What events does VBC run?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "VBC Networking Sessions are held weekly and are open to everyone, regardless of VBC membership or verification status. They provide an opportunity to connect with the broader veteran business community, build relationships and learn more about VBC. Book at https://calendly.com/peter-veteranbc/veteran-owned-business-networking-session." }, "name" : "What are VBC Networking Sessions?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Lunch in the Mess is VBC's monthly digital networking session for VBC members. It provides a regular opportunity for members to connect and strengthen relationships across the community." }, "name" : "What is Lunch in the Mess?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "VetCon is VBC's annual veteran business conference, first launched in 2026. It brings together the veteran business community and includes the Veteran Business Awards. Access and registration requirements are specific to each event." }, "name" : "What is VetCon?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Yes. VBC may host or participate in additional events throughout the year. Access and registration requirements may vary by event." }, "name" : "Does VBC run other events?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "The VBC Podcast shares stories, experiences and insights from across the veteran business community. It features conversations with veteran business owners and other guests relevant to the VBC community." }, "name" : "What is the VBC Podcast?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "The VBC Podcast is available on Spotify at https://open.spotify.com/show/3J5xETQmJzNbXM4agGrDv9, Apple Podcasts at https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/veteran-business-community-podcast/id1657948200 and YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@veteranbc." }, "name" : "Where can I listen to the VBC Podcast?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Yes. VBC members can express interest at https://meetings.hubspot.com/peteliston/mm4b-pod. Submitting an expression of interest does not guarantee an appearance. Guest participation is subject to VBC review and suitability." }, "name" : "Can I apply to be a podcast guest?" } ], "name" : "Veteran Business Community Help Centre", "url" : "https://veteranbc.com/help-centre", "version" : "1.0" } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://veteranbc.com/help-centre#breadcrumb", "@type" : "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement" : [ { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://veteranbc.com/", "name" : "Home", "position" : 1 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://veteranbc.com/help-centre", "name" : "Help Centre", "position" : 2 } ] } ```