Today marks another important chapter in the ACT’s commitment to supporting the families of those who have served, through the formal commemoration of War Widows Day.
War Widows Day recognises the contribution and personal sacrifice made by hundreds of surviving widows and widowers across the Territory and the many thousands across Australia.
It is held on 19 October to coincide with the birthday of Jessie Vasey, who founded the War Widows Guild of Australia (now Australian War Widows) in 1945.
The ACT Government is acknowledging the day with a commemorative event in partnership with the Australian War Widows’ ACT branch.
Minister for Veterans and Seniors Emma Davidson MLA said War Widows Day will form part of the long-standing tradition in the ACT of acknowledging the pivotal role the families of veterans hold in our community.
“I am proud the ACT is joining New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia in acknowledging the friendship, commitment and sacrifice of war widows.
“On 19 October every year, we will reflect on the values of honour, friendship, community, inclusivity and support that have etched these families into our national consciousness, our history and our future.
“I would particularly like to acknowledge the work of War Widows ACT, which has been pivotal in achieving this recognition for the more than 700 war widows in the ACT,” Minister Davidson said.
The ACT Government is also commemorating the day by launching the 2023-24 Veterans Grants program which supports organisations to deliver community-based activities for veterans and their families.
“This year we have increased the maximum application level from $10,000 to $15,000 for projects that deliver wellbeing support services and activities of broad-scale benefit to the veteran community and their families.
“We particularly encourage applications addressing the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, acknowledging their proud history of military service in the Australian Defence Force that continues to this day,” Minister Davidson said.
Applications for the grants can be made at www.communityservices.act.gov.au/veterans/grants.
Quotes attributable to War Widows ACT President Robynne Mitchell
War Widows Day gives us a sense of pride as it acknowledges the women who worked so tirelessly to establish the War Widows Guild in Australia in 1945. We especially remember the founder, Mrs Jessie Mary Vasey CBE, born on 19th October, who fought continuously for widows’ rights. This Day, each year, should encourage widows to connect with each other in support of each other.
