Minister Natalie Suleyman and MP Steve McGhie revealed the Allan Labor Government's new investment to aid veterans. They announced the launch of applications for the 2024-25 Veterans Capital Works and Restoring Community War Memorials grant programs.
In a commendable effort to recognize and support the contributions of veterans, Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman, alongside Member for Melton Steve McGhie, has announced that the Allan Labor Government will be allocating additional resources towards the welfare and remembrance of our veterans. This initiative includes the opening of applications for two upcoming grant programs: the Veterans Capital Works and the Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour for the 2024-25 fiscal year.
The Veterans Capital Works grant program for 2024-25 is designed to provide funding ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. These funds will aid in the development, restoration, or enhancement of facilities utilized by organizations dedicated to serving veterans and their families, as well as broader community needs. Possible funded projects might involve improvements to existing structures, enhanced accessibility features, sustainable building practices, and other critical upgrades to facilities.
On the other hand, the Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour grant program offers financial assistance of up to $30,000 aimed at the restoration or enhancement of war memorials, honour rolls, and avenues of honour. These efforts will not only seek to return these landmarks to their original form but also aim to ensure they accurately represent the service of veterans within their respective communities. This program prioritizes the preservation of local war memorials that pay tribute to Victorians who have served across various wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions.
As an example of the impact of these grants, last year's funding allowed the Ballan RSL Sub-Branch to receive over $29,000, which was utilized to restore and replace trees at the Barrys Reef WW1 Avenue of Honour site, rejuvenating a memorial that has stood for over a century.
Grant applications for both programs will be accepted until February 3, 2025. For individuals or organizations eager to explore the Veterans Capital Works grants or to get involved, more information is available at vic.gov.au/veterans-capital-works-grant-program. Those interested in the Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour grants can find additional details and application procedures at vic.gov.au/restoring-community-war-memorials-and-avenues-honour.
Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman emphasized the importance of this initiative by stating, “Our investment in accessible, safe and improved facilities for organizations will directly help veterans and veteran communities across the state.” She continued to underscore the significance of maintaining memorials, stating that “These grants will ensure the service and sacrifice of veterans are honoured with well-maintained memorials and spaces that reflect their legacy in local communities.”
Member for Melton Steve McGhie echoed these sentiments, asserting that “These grants will ensure the service and sacrifice of our veteran community are remembered and appreciated forever.” His remarks reflect a shared commitment to ensuring the sacrifices made by veterans are duly recognized and honored for generations to come.
Comments 0