LOCAL ORGANISATIONS RECEIVE FUNDING TO SUPPORT VETERANS

TWENTY-EIGHT local organisations that provide activities to boost the health and wellbeing of veterans and their families across Australia were today announced as recipients of the Veteran and Community Grants (V&CG) program.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the more than $470,000 in funding would support these organisations to run activities to help reduce social isolation, purchase essential equipment and improve existing programs and services for veterans and their families.

“These organisations and communities are committed to putting veterans and their families first, and these grants help them to run programs at a grassroots level that provide real benefits,” Mr Chester said.

“The health and wellbeing of veterans and their families is a top priority for the Government and social connectedness is a vital part of improving the mental health of veterans and their families.   

“Congratulations to all participating community and ex-service organisations that have been offered funding.  I encourage other local organisations to apply for future DVA grants programs.”

The Government is committed to supporting and collaborating with local veteran organisations so they can continue to deliver essential, on the ground services to veterans and their families to meet the changing needs of their local veteran communities.  

DVA recognises the potential impact coronavirus may have on recipients completing their projects with social distancing and other public health measures in place across the country. The grants offer will be available for the initial 12 month period, however if the organisation requires more time to complete their project due to coronavirus, DVA will consider extending the  length of the agreement on a case by case basis. This flexibility will ensure all of the successful organisations can deliver their projects within a reasonable timeframe and continue to deliver great support their local veteran community.