Veteran support gets huge grant boost

TWO local RSL branches will share in more than $14,500 in grant funding to help cater for the needs of local veterans.

More than $13,000 has been allocated to the Torquay RSL sub-branch and $1,500 will go to the Portarlington and St Leonards RSL.

The Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) grants program aims to assist with the provision of veteran advocacy services.

Corangamite federal MP Libby Coker said grants would provide ex-servicepeople with extra assistance and support.

“This grant will further enable local RSL sub-branches to provide critical advice and support for our veterans, ensuring they receive the care and guidance they deserve.

“My electorate of Corangamite has one of the highest numbers of veterans in the state. We must do all we can to support them.”

The BEST grant program follows the federal government’s introduction of legislation to simplify Australian veteran rehabilitation and compensation.

Under the Veterans’ Entitlements, Treatment and Support (Simplification and Harmonisation) Bill, all new compensation claims from July 1, 2026 will be dealt with under a single piece of legislation.

“This is another important step in responding to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide’s Interim Report and is the result of significant community consultation,” Ms Coker said.

“I provided copies of the draft legislation to all local RSL sub-branches to ensure local voices were heard throughout the development of this policy.”