FEDERAL Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce is advising members of his electorate of the availability of Certificates of Appreciation for those who have served in the defence forces during and after the Second World War.

Mr Joyce said the Certificates of Appreciation were a way of expressing the nation’s gratitude to those who served in the defence forces or on the home front in the Second World War, or in wars, conflicts and peace operations overseas since the Second World War.

He said Certificates of Appreciation can be issued by the electorate offices of each Federal Member of Parliament.

“As we approach the Centenary of Anzac it is important we continue to recognise the contribution of our local veteran community, whether it is throughout overseas service or on the home front,” Mr Joyce said.

“Along with our continued support of local commemorations such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day services, the awarding of these certificates provides our local community with another opportunity to thanks these men and women for their invaluable contribution to our nation.”

There is no Certificate for service in the First World War, as the Certificates are intended primarily to recognise surviving veterans.

Mr Joyce said over the years the Certificates of Appreciation program has received bipartisan endorsement and attained widespread acceptance by the veteran community.

Inquiries relating to Certificates of Appreciation can be made to Mr Joyce’s electorate office, at shop 5, 259 Peel Street, Tamworth. Phone [02] 6761 3080