Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said now is the time for Ex-Service Organisations (ESOs), who help veterans and their families, to apply for a 2021 Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) grant.

“I have lobbied hard for these grants this year because they help ESOs provide vital services for current and former serving men and women, helping with their compensation claims and ensuring they get access to their entitlements and services,” Mr Joyce said. 

ESOs across the country deliver extensive services to veterans and their families including leisure activities, transition support, rehabilitation and wellbeing programs and hosting many commemorative events and activities.

Mr Joyce said the services provided by ESOs can help veterans and their families access local support and resources, empowering them to improve their health and wellbeing, stay well, age well and engage in a full life.

“A BEST grant can help contribute towards paying the salary costs of administrative assistants and advocates, and any equipment they might need to deliver their services.

“I encourage all ESOs that provide advocacy services to apply for a BEST grant,” Mr Joyce said. 

Applications are now open online with advocacy service providers encouraged to submit their application before the closing date of 14 April, 2021.

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs offers a range of grant programs to assist with providing support to veterans and their families. 

To apply for a grant or for further information on BEST grants visit the Community Grants Hub website: communitygrants.gov.au

(ENDS)