GRANTS for projects supporting the health and wellbeing of veterans and their families in the New England are now available, with the latest round of Veteran and Community Grants (V&CG) program now open.

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said the health and wellbeing of the veteran community was an ongoing priority for the Federal Government and the V&CG program was a way of supporting ex-service organisations (ESOs) and community organisations in providing local solutions.

“Remembrance Day this week has again brought into sharp focus the important role of our service personnel and it’s important they are supported in our communities,” Mr Joyce said.

“These grants are for activities and services that improve veterans’ health and wellbeing.

“Grants can provide seed funding for projects that promote a healthy lifestyle, help veterans to remain living independently in their own homes, reduce social isolation, support carers and improve access to community services.

“Communities in the New England know best what will benefit veterans and their families and these grants will provide opportunities to organisations to extend the important support they provide to veterans and their families.”

ESOs and community organisation partners are invited to apply for grants of up to $20,000 for local, community-based projects and activities. A small number of large grants of up to $150,000 are available for projects that deliver wellbeing support services and activities of broad-scale benefit to the veteran community.

In July, the Australian Government provided $55,385 in additional funding assistance to veteran advocacy services in the New England as part of its Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) grants program.

Grant applications for the Veteran and Community Grants (V&CG) program will close 29 January 2021. For information about how to apply see the Community Grants Hub website: www.communitygrants.gov.au Assistance with grant application queries is also available by phone: 1800 020 283 or by email: support@communitygrants.gov.au

(ENDS)