Brutal budget blow cuts funding for crucial veterans charity

Gary Wilson embodies the bravery and tenacity of the Digger spirit.

Left with catastrophic injuries after a Blackhawk helicopter crash in Afghanistan in 2010, he spent three months in a coma before learning to walk again, and eventually run.

Forced to rebuild his life completely, Gary found a home among other veterans through Invictus Australia.

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The charity helps serving and former Australian Defence Force members through sport, wellbeing and community programs.

But in last night's federal budget, all of their funding was cut.

Gary says Invictus is a lifeline veterans can't afford to lose.

Watch the full video in the player above.

STATEMENT FROM VETERANS' AFFAIRS MINISTER MATT KEOGH

The Government thanks Invictus Australia for their effective work supporting the veteran community.

Since coming to government we've made the biggest investment in DVA in 30 years, including some $18.1bn worth of funding for medical services for veterans and their families, including mental health and wellbeing support.

This is in addition to compensation payments and other DVA-funded outcomes for veterans.

Last night's budget committed almost $800m for veterans as part of the Government's response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.

The budget also included the biggest single investment into access to allied health services in 20 years for veterans and their families.