Ex-service and community organisations are set to benefit from more than $5.5 million in grant funding to help deliver wellbeing projects and commemorative activities for veterans, defence personnel and their families.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said he was particularly encouraged by the number of community groups recognising Vietnam veterans through Veteran Wellbeing Grants and Saluting Their Service Grants, 50 years since the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.
“I am pleased to announce that 57 organisations have been awarded a share in $3.5 million in funding under the Australian Government’s Veteran Wellbeing Grants program to support veterans and families,” Minister Keogh said.
“Veteran Wellbeing Grants are designed to boost funding for organisations providing new projects and improvements to current initiatives that enhance the health and wellbeing of Australian veterans and families. It’s fantastic to see new and exciting programs that organisations are implementing, including music programs and gardening.”
More than 150 projects will share in over $2 million funding from the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program, which aims to increase understanding of the veteran experience through a variety of activities.
“The Saluting Their Service program provides funding not only for war memorials, but for a range of projects that highlight the important role our service men and women have played in over a century of service,” Minister Keogh said.
“The Department of Veterans’ Affairs received a large number of applications for both of these grant programs, it is fantastic to see the enthusiasm to support and pay tribute to our veteran community from all over the country.”
