The ACT Government has made a substantial investment of $80,000 for ACT veterans and their families through a series of grants designed to promote participation in activities outside of the defence forces.
Minister for Veterans Gordon Ramsay said the grants program would support serving and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence force and their families by promoting social inclusion and employment outside of the ADF.
“These grants are designed for community organisations to assist our veterans by improving employment capability as well as promoting a culture of social inclusion,” Minister Ramsay said.
“The grants of up to $10,000 are available to organisations that have the capacity to link veterans and their families with programs that support their wellbeing.
“Previous grant recipients have provided opportunities for veterans to reconnect with their families through activities like blacksmithing, whilst others have provided training in conversations around mental health and how to transfer skills obtained in the Defence Force to civilian employment.”
Neil Sperring, President of South Canberra Veterans Shed at Tuggeranong, said their previous Veterans grant allowed them to set up the infrastructure for their shed.
“We’ve got computers, we’ve got pergolas for fundraising, tables and chairs and some basic machinery which has allowed us to better engage with veterans and their families on specific projects,” Mr Sperring said.
Applications close on Monday 2 September 2019.
