From repairing local memorials to therapeutic guitar lessons – the Andrews Labor Government is supporting a raft of new projects that will honour veterans’ service and help them live fulfilling civilian lives.
Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane today announced the latest organisations receiving grants through two programs for the veteran community – the Anzac Day Proceeds Fund and the Victoria Remembers Grants Program.
The Anzac Day Proceeds Fund supports a range of activities to boost veteran wellbeing. Its latest recipients include Guitars for Vets, which has received $16,500 to support its work providing music therapy to younger veterans experiencing stress and post post-traumatic stress disorder through guitar lessons.
The Victoria Remembers Grant Program provides grants of up to $30,000 for projects commemorating veterans’ service or educating Victorians about veterans’ contributions. Recipients include the Gelantipy Public Hall Committee, which will replace a missing honour roll of local residents who fought for their country.
Both programs are assessed by the Victorian Veterans Council – an independent statutory body which advises the Government on veterans’ needs and furthers the Spirit of Anzac through commemoration and education.
Applications have opened for three other grant programs – the next round of the Victoria Remembers Grant Program, along with the Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour Grants Program and Veterans Capital Works Grants Program.
Applications close 20 January 2022. To apply, visit .
The grants announcements come in the lead-up to Remembrance Day on 11 November, when Victorians pause and remember the brave Australians who have served in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
The Shrine of Remembrance will hold an in-person service for up to 3,800 fully vaccinated attendees, reflecting particularly upon the 21 years of service in the 21st century. It will be livestreamed so all Victorians can participate. The Government has provided the Shrine with more than $70,000 to facilitate these commemorations.
RSL Victoria is working with its sub-branches to offer local, in-person events for fully vaccinated attendees in line with Victoria’s Roadmap to Deliver the National Plan and other public health directions.
Quote attributable to Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane
“Veterans have made enormous sacrifices so all Australians can enjoy freedom and peace – that’s why we are supporting them and ensuring their contributions are appreciated long into the future.”
Quote attributable to Victorian Veterans Council Acting Chair Lieutenant Commander Pelagia Markogiannakis
“So many ex-service organisations and others across our state are committed to commemorating and supporting veterans. We’re pleased to be directing funding where it’s needed.”
Quote attributable to Guitars for Vets Founder and Chair David Cox
“Where words fail, music speaks – this will allow us to continue giving our veterans the healing power of music.”
Reviewed 07 November 2021