Tony Geyer is an ex-military and ex-serviceman and served for 38 years, including in Afghanistan.

He's now an RSL Active participant and military compensation advocate, and said the program was a lifeline for many returned servicemen and women.

"It's a way for vets to form a connection to like-minded peers and their families," he said.

"That really helps to build a self-reliant, resilient veteran who can manage themselves and contribute to the community.

"Especially in regional areas, sometimes you can be in a place like Port Fairy and feel like the only bloke there.

"It brings us all back together."

He said it could be difficult to fit back in to everyday life after serving on the frontline.

"One of the biggest issues for those leaving the service life was that everything was controlled and laid out, then all of a sudden you're out on your own.

"I remember after 38 years I didn't know how to use a Medicare card.

"It's small things like that, but this group has that peer support so you can learn how to live a normal life and assimilate.

"There is a language we all talk; when you talk to any other veteran you feel like you're back on home soil again."

Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane visited the Warrnambool RSL to announce the funding.

He spoke to veterans about experiences he had heard while working in the portfolio and issues they could face accessing funding and support.

Groups like RSL Active help to support those who fall through the cracks.

"Victoria's RSLs do an incredible job delivering vital welfare support to our veterans," he said.

"Over the past year we have seen just how vital welfare assistance for our veterans is - that's why I'm so proud to be providing this funding to Warrnambool RSL.

"The Warrnambool RSL should be immensely proud of the role they play in supporting veterans and their families in staying engaged with their community as they transition to civilian life."

RSL Active manager Adam Kent said the focus was on physical and mental health.

"I think RSL active can be done anywhere," he said.

"When we were down at the local hospital they said 95 per cent of government funding goes to the sick, then the other per cent is to keep people healthy.

"What we're doing is helping that five per cent now rather than paying later on.

"I think the funding is awesome and gives us the opportunity to reach out to Hamilton, Casterton, Cavendish, Camperdown - all those in our region from Port Campbell to as far as Portland."

Warrnambool RSL president John Miles said he was grateful for the funding, "which allows us to continue this valuable program helping maintain important connections with local veterans and support their transition".

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