2026 OPK9 Graduation | Rebuilding Lives, One Partnership At A Time

[Image Description: A man kneeling on a garden path looking at his Assistance Dog]

The 2026 OPK9 Graduation is more than a ceremony; it’s a celebration of courage, trust, partnership, and hope restored.

Recently, families, supporters, volunteers, and staff gathered at the Repat Health Precinct to honour 11 veteran partnerships completing the OPK9 Assistance Dog Program.

The ceremony highlighted the unique role of a See Differently OPK9 Assistance Dog, the only program of its kind in South Australia, and one of only a handful across Australia. Guests witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact these partnerships make.

There is now clear evidence that assistance dogs improve mental health outcomes, yet what was witnessed throughout the ceremony by those in attendance brought that impact to life in a deeply human way.

Since its inception in 2014, the See Differently OPK9 Assistance Dog program has proudly matched 83 veterans with an assistance dog, with 48 actively working in the community today. Each partnership benefits from ongoing care, training, and support, ensuring success from the very start and throughout the journey.

[Image Description: Yellow OPK9 Assistance dog looking at the camera comforting Veteran.]

The Power Of Partnerships

Our OPK9 Assistance Dog program is only possible thanks to our incredible community of supporters. From volunteers caring for puppies, providing training, or boarding dogs, to corporate partners providing essential funding, the program thrives because of community and collaboration.

We are especially grateful to the Department of Veterans Affairs, our corporate partners, and donors. Each year, we recognise outstanding contributions, and this year we awarded Chris Bolsey and the team from Amorini Australia with the Corporate Partners Award for their dedication and fundraising efforts, which help make these life-changing outcomes possible, ensuring veterans leave the program with not just a trained companion, but also the ongoing support to thrive.

[Image Description: Chris Bosley – Amorini Australia and Damian Papps – See Differently Executive Director presenting the 2026 Corporate Partners Award for their financial support of the See Differently OPK9 Assistance Dog Program.]

Internationally Accredited

Our OPK9 Assistance Dog program continues to lead in Australia, providing world-class training and care accredited through Assistance Dogs International. Graduates leave with more than a dog, they leave with a pathway to renewed independence, strengthened social connections, and a best mate for life. Because the true impact of OPK9 isn’t defined by a single day, it’s seen in the days, weeks and years that follow.

Together, We Can Change Lives – One Veteran, One Dog, One Story At A Time.

Donate To Our See Differently OPK9 Assistance Dog Program Today >> https://seedifferently.org.au/donation/