GRANTS BOOST QUALITY OF LIFE FOR VETERAN COMMUNITY

Nineteen projects enriching the quality of lives of veterans across the country have received funding worth $236,294 as part of the Veteran and Community Grants program, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Senator the Hon. Michael Ronaldson announced today.

Senator Ronaldson said some of the projects included: the purchase of computer equipment and the establishment of websites to help members of ex-service organisations stay connected; cooking classes to enable veterans to prepare healthy meals at home; and bus trips to reduce social isolation.

“The Australian Government is pleased to support projects that directly benefit the defence and veteran community. I congratulate each of the successful organisations on their ongoing dedication to these invaluable initiatives,” Senator Ronaldson said.

Ex-service and community organisations, veteran representative groups, private organisations and projects that promote improved independence and quality of life for veterans are eligible for funding through the Veteran and Community Grants program.

Senator Ronaldson said RSLs and many other veteran and defence community organisations provide a central hub of support, recreation and comradeship for so many current and former servicemen and women and their families.

“Since 1999, the Veteran and Community Grants program has helped ex-service organisations continue to provide high quality services and support to the veteran and defence community, as well as assisting in attracting the next generation of members,” Senator Ronaldson said.

“The Australian community is justly proud of the service and sacrifice of our veterans and those currently serving in the Australian Defence Force. Each of these grants is a show of our appreciation and gratitude to our sailors, soldiers, airmen and nurses, past and present.

“The Veteran and Community Grants program will continue to provide funding in future rounds.  I encourage any eligible local veteran or defence groups to consider how a grant could help deliver care and support to their community.”