MORE than $4.2 million in funding is available through this year’s Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) grants program, which assists ex-service organisations (ESOs) to deliver essential advice, advocacy and welfare services for veterans, serving members and their families along with war widows and widowers.

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said the ESO community plays an important role in supporting our veterans and their families, and this funding means they can continue to provide significant support at a grassroots level.

“This funding assists ESOs and other veteran organisations acquire the right tools, equipment and resources to provide support for the wider veteran community,” Mr Joyce said.

“In the New England, recent funding from this program has benefited groups such as   Tamworth Legacy Club and Tamworth RSL Sub Branch with grants of $16,071 and $54,205 respectively.

“Veteran support services can include salaries for trained pension advocates and administrative assistants, and essential equipment and administration expenses including computer equipment and internet access for pension and welfare work.

“I encourage local veteran organisations in the New England to get involved and apply for potential funding to support our veteran community.”

Applications for the BEST grants program will close on 17 February 2020. For more information about grants program or if you would like to submit your application, visit the Community Grants Hub webpage: communitygrants.gov.au/grants/best

If you’ve been impacted by the bushfires and need help with your application please contact the Community Grants Hub as soon as you can on 1800 020 283 (option 1) or support@communitygrants.gov.au so they can help.

(ENDS)