Applications open for veteran and community grants

Projects supporting the health and wellbeing of veterans and their families may be eligible for funding, with applications for the Veteran and Community Grants (V&CG) program now open.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the health and wellbeing of the veteran community was an ongoing priority, and the V&CG program was a way of supporting ex-service organisations (ESOs) and partner community organisations in providing local solutions.

“Local communities know best what will benefit veterans and their families, whether that is improvements that make community spaces safer and more accessible, equipment that will enable COVID-safe activities, or assistance to connect online,” Mr Chester said.

“This year we are encouraging applications for practical projects and activities that support safe, accessible environments for veterans and their families to enable social connection and positive engagement to improve wellbeing.”

ESOs and community organisation partners are invited to apply for grants of up to $20,000 for local, community-based projects and activities.

A small number of large grants of up to $150,000 are available for projects that deliver wellbeing support services and activities of broad-scale benefit to the veteran community.

The 2020-21 grant round opens online today, and follows the successful Veterans’ Health Week where social connection amidst the coronavirus pandemic was the theme and key focus of events.

“Social connection is one of the most important aspects of mental health and wellbeing,” Mr Chester said.

“This year it is more important than ever to remain socially connected with family, friends and our local communities.

“These grants will provide opportunities to community organisations to extend the important support they provide to veterans and their families.”

Grant applications will close 29 January 2021.

For information about how to apply see the Community Grants Hub website.

Assistance with grant application queries is also available by phone: 1800 020 283 or by email: support@communitygrants.gov.au..

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