FEDERAL Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce said veterans and their families from the Gunnedah RSL Sub-Branch will benefit from Government funding of $3,714 to undertake a series of bus trips to reduce social isolation.

Mr Joyce said funding under the Veteran and Community Grants program would help to enrich the lives of local veterans and their families by supporting important services.

“I congratulate the Gunnedah RSL Sub-Branch on its commitment to improving the lives of our national treasures – the local veteran community – in practical and tangible ways,” Mr Joyce said.

“This Veteran and Community Grants funding will have knock-on effects for the local community, which has contributed to making this invaluable project a reality.”

Ex-service and community organisations, veteran groups and private organisations that contribute to the health and welfare of the veteran community are all eligible to apply for funding through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs’ Veteran and Community Grants program.

“The dedication and hard work of organisations such as the Gunnedah RSL Sub-Branch ensure veterans and their families receive services, support and opportunities that allow them to continue active roles in their local communities,” Mr Joyce said.

In this round, Veteran and Community Grants worth nearly $320,000 have been awarded to 20 projects across the country.

For more information about the Veteran and Community Grants program or to apply, visit the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) website www.dva.gov.au/grants or contact your nearest DVA office on 133 254 or 1800 555 254 from regional Australia.