2025 OPK9 Graduation Celebrates the Life-Changing Impact of Assistance Dogs on South Australian Veterans
See Differently’s internationally accredited OPK9 program celebrated a significant milestone this month, with the graduation of its latest cohort of veterans.
The ceremony, held at the Repatriation Hospital in Daw Park on Friday, 21 March 2025, showcased See Differently’s ongoing efforts to support South Australian veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), empowering them to rebuild their lives with renewed confidence and independence.
Since its inception in 2014, the OPK9 program, which receives funding from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs along with donations from individuals, businesses, and trusts, has helped more than 70 South Australian veterans. The program pairs highly-trained assistance dogs with veterans to help them navigate the challenges of PTSD, offering both companionship and vital support.
The process of matching each veteran with their dedicated assistance dog is both personalised and thorough and empowers veterans by offering them choice and control. Each veteran’s needs are carefully assessed, ensuring a perfect match that promotes long-term healing, recovery, and an enhanced quality of life. Over nearly two years, dedicated volunteers raise, train, and socialise the puppies, while the experienced See Differently team trains the dogs to meet the specific needs of each veteran.
The 2025 graduation celebrated the bond formed between nine veterans and their assistance dogs. Among the graduating pairs was Grant and his dog, Zella.
Grant said Zella had given him a renewed sense of purpose and hope.
“She’s helping me more than anyone ever could,” Grant said.
“This program didn’t just change my life, it gave my family hope.”
Independent research conducted by the University of Adelaide has shown significant improvements in mental health because of See Differently’s OPK9 program. The study indicated a decrease in suicidal thoughts and depression, as well as increased social connections and overall well-being for veterans paired with assistance dogs.
See Differently Executive Director, Damian Papps, emphasised the importance of the program and the hard work of everyone involved.
“We’ve seen firsthand the profound impact this program has had on veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country,” Mr Papps said.
“These dogs bring veterans hope, joy, comfort, and mateship.”
“We’ve grown our program to become the largest and most successful provider of guide and assistance dogs in South Australia, and we are proud to see the transformative impact it continues to have on the lives of veterans in need.
“My congratulations to all the graduating veterans and their new companions.”
Minister for Veteran Affairs, Joe Szakacs, who attended the graduation, said the OPK9 Program was contributing to a healthier and more resilient South Australia.
“The program’s success in South Australia serves as a model for other regions, showcasing the positive impact that dedicated assistance dog programs can have on mental health and community wellbeing,” he said.
The OPK9 graduation marks the end of an intensive training and matching process, ensuring the highest standards. As the OPK9 program continues to grow in demand, See Differently remains committed to supporting veterans and their families. With each new graduate, the program brings healing, hope, and a renewed sense of purpose to South Australian veterans, making a meaningful difference in the mental health landscape, one paw at a time.
Learn more about the OPK9 program and how you can show your support here.
