Empowering Commando Families

The Zero79 Foundation is a volunteer-driven organisation dedicated to supporting current and former 079 operators of the 2nd Commando Regiment. Our mission extends beyond the individual commando to encompass their families, collaborating with defense-based networks and promoting Australian commando businesses worldwide.

who we are

The Zero79 Foundation strives to honour and remember the sacrifice of all fallen Australian commandos through our numerous programs and initiatives supporting current former serving commandos and their families.

At the Zero79 Foundation, we are passionate about ensuring the legacy of all fallen commandos lives through the work of our team, and we stand ready to provide rapid support to the commando community.

The Zero79 team is comprised of current and former serving commandos, friends and families of the fallen.

what we do

The Zero79 Foundation’s mission is to provide niche support to current and former serving Commandos of Australian Special Operations Command (SOCOMD) and their families.

The Zero79 Foundation is the only organisation in Australia that exists solely to support commando operators.

Our name, Zero79 derives from the employment category number for commando operators — ECN079.The Zero79 Foundation prides itself on being agile — we understand when help is needed time is critical. Therefore, we pride ourselves on our responsiveness.

We know what the commando community needs — through our network, we use this knowledge to tailor our programs.

how we do it

  • Maintain a database of former serving members.
  • Engage with families of the fallen and keep them connected to the commando community.
  • Provide regular opportunities to keep former members engaged in the commando community through our Konnect programs.
  • Provide financial assistance to former members' pursuit of sport and recreation.
  • Provide funding for farewell gifts for operators retiring from the Australian Defence Force.
  • Support initiatives within the 2nd Commando Regiment to enhance the well-being and pursuits of commandos.
  • Provide immediate emergency short-term financial assistance to former operators and their families.
  • Conduct wellness camps featuring activities such as surfing, yoga and meditation, fly-fishing and surfboard shaping workshops, amongst others.
  • Seek out and communicate employment opportunities for former serving commandos.
  • Engage and collaborate with other Ex-Service Organisations (ESOs).
  • Use the story of all fallen operators of the 2nd Commando Regiment to inspire the non-military community through various programs and initiatives, including youth development.

our logo

  • Our logo at the Zero79 Foundation symbolises the heart of the Foundation’s purpose.
  • The double daggers and diamond pay homage to the foregathers of the modern commando — Australia's original commandos from the Second World War.
  • The circle and arrow is the military symbol for ‘secure’, symbolising the Foundation's role in keeping the people we serve central to our purpose and mission — the commando community.

Supporting Commandos and Their Families

At The Zero79 Foundation, we are dedicated to providing unwavering support to current and former 079 operators of the 1st and 2nd Commando Regiment and their families. Our mission is to honour their service and create a strong community.

Our Focus

We are the sole organisation in Australia committed to supporting commandos and their families.

Building Bonds

Through our social connect and cohesion programs, we foster a strong sense of community.

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Supporting Commandos and Strengthening Our Nation

The Zero79 Foundation is dedicated to supporting current and former 079 operators of the 1st and 2nd Commando Regiment in Australia. Our mission extends beyond individuals to encompass their families, collaborating with defense-based networks like the Commando Welfare Trust. We also support and promote Australian commando businesses worldwide, fostering a sense of community among commandos.

Meet Our Team

Get to know the volunteers and key members who run The Zero79 Foundation.

David Le Pavoux
Director/Chief Commercial Officer
Chris Dyer
Director/Chief Executive Officer
Stephen Rana
Director/Chief Operations Officer
Jacinta Harmer
Policy Advisor
Sharlene Wood
Family Liaison Manager
Rebecca Dyer
Chief Governance Officer
David Parker
Merchandising
Justin Dyer
Special Projects
jason rutter
Member
Cara Dyer
Special Projects
Matthew Vernon
Liaison Manager
craig haycock
Financial Manager
Josie Aplin
Ambassador
Taylah Langley
Ambassador
Luke Statton
Ambassador

Commando Testimonials

Read what commandos and their families have to say

Zero 79 Foundation’s support of Josie and Daniel has been beyond amazing. In August 2023, Zero 79 invited them to be a part of the Na Koa Wounded Warrior Canoe Regatta in Hawaii. It allowed Josie and Daniel to be a part of a truly special experience, where they were able to honour their father, Tim Aplin. If it weren’t for Zero 79 Foundation and the donations from various institutions, fundraising events and the generosity of people, Jos and Dan would never have had this opportunity. We are forever grateful for their support

Jen Aplin

Commando Family

The Zero 79 Foundation has helped me reconnect with the community, both current and former through their Konnect programs. It’s run by people in the community who are in touch with what commandos need

Tony

2 CDO REGT - 2007 to 2016

The Zero 79 Foundation was the first to offer its support to me despite there being many other Special Forces charities. They helped me when I needed it, and I am forever grateful. The Foundation is assisting other Commandos like me in various different ways, which is fantastic. There was a saying when I was at 2Cdo Regt. It was “Commando for life”, and this charity stands by that saying.

Jon

2 CDO REGT - 2009 to 2014

The Zero79 Foundation has helped me get my business out there to other networks not within my current circle. They show great commitment in helping former commandos grow once they have left their respective regiments.

mal

2 CDO REGT Operator 2008 - 2018

The journey to being a Commando is arguably one of the hardest things a person will ever do, but also the most rewarding. It means are lentless pursuit of excellence and selfless dedication to service that means you sacrifice a lot personally and collectively. The Zero79 foundation is recognising these sacrifices through providing meaningful initiatives specific to the Commando community to ensure we continue the legacy of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

WILL H

Former 2 CDO REGT Officer

Attending the recent Brisbane Zero79 event with my partner was a really enjoyable night. A heartfelt thank you to the foundation for orchestrating such an enjoyable evening, selecting a happening venue, and fostering connections among partners of both serving and retired unit members. It's incredibly refreshing to feel this support, especially considering the challenges that often extend beyond life in the unit. Grateful to see the partners considered and I will encourage other spouses to get along to future events. Thanks again

carly c

Commando Family

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