Money raised during Legacy Week helps Legacy support more than 90,000 widows, children and adults with a disability – the families of veterans who have given their lives or health.

“Our service men and women, and their families, have given their health and their lives in the Defence of Australia,” said Sydney Legacy President Eric Easterbrook.

“They defended our freedom and the right for us to live in a democracy.

“This is why Legacy is still important and why all Australians should never forget why and how they are able to live in the lifestyle and conditions that we have.

“Our service men and women must have the belief that, should they pay the price of diminished health or loss of life in the course of their duty the rest of Australia will look after “the missus and kids”.”

“Legacy is still so important because we have widows, widowers and families who have lost their dearest friend, father or mother.”

Sydney Legacy is now enrolling two young widows and children, families of two servicemen who died recently.

“From Department of Veterans Affairs figures, Legacy will be required through past 2086 even if we never send another service person to an area of conflict.”

Mr Easterbrook is asking every Australian to buy the most expensive badge they can afford and wear it to show support for the families left behind.

All money raised during Legacy Week will be used on welfare services for families of veterans.