Recognising and supporting Victorian veterans

APPLICATIONS for two grants to recognise and support the states veterans are now open.

The Anzac Day Proceeds Fund and Victoria Remembers grants form part of the Labor Government’s support for Victorian veterans.

The grants are available for projects honouring the legacy, service and sacrifice of Victorian veterans and for activities that improve their welfare and wellbeing.

Up to $150,000 is available for ex-service organisations and veterans’ community groups planning on providing state-wide activities.

For regional organisations or sub-branches, grants of up to $50,000 are available for activities benefiting veterans in a specific area.

Torquay Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) received $7,500 last year as part of the Anzac Day Proceeds Fund grant.

The club, with the assistance of Torquay RSL, will use the funds to help returned service personnel who would benefit from community contact get involved with the SLSC.

Through the grant, new rescue boards and uniforms for the veterans have been purchased, with the funding also covering the cost of their training and memberships.

Torquay SLSC President Matt Carmichael said once the veterans have completed the training in October, they will be assigned a patrol.

“Depending on how many veterans we get interested in the program, we’ll be able to try and keep them on a patrol with some longer-term members.”

Mr Carmichael also thanked the Department of Veteran Affairs for their support of the program.

“It’s an exciting initiative to help both the servicemen who have already dedicated so much of their lives to the service of the country and help us and the community make sure that it’s safe on the beaches.”

 

 

Veteran and Torquay RSL Vice President Darcy Dunstan said the programs will help veterans of all ages by fostering social connections in family-friendly clubs, boosting mental and physical wellbeing.

“These grants will help veterans engage with local communities and participate in outdoor activities, creating strong support networks and improving their overall quality of life.”

For the Victoria Remembers grants, up to $30,000 is available for programs recognising veterans’ service or educating Victorians about the sacrifices and contributions made.

These grants could be used for new war memorials, events commemorating significant anniversaries, public educations through digital storytelling and more.

Grant applications remain open until September 9.

For more information or to apply for the Anzac Day Proceeds Fund, visit vic.gov.au/anzac-day-proceeds-fund

Head to vic.gov.au/victoria-remembers-grant-program for more on the Victoria Remembers Grants program.