More money for veterans’ wellbeing

Community projects aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of Australia’s veterans will receive $670,936 in funding, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, has announced .

Minister Griffin said the funding underlined the Australian Government’s commitment to supporting the valuable work of local organisations dedicated to caring for veterans, war widows and widowers.

“The Veteran & Community Grants program provides on-the-ground funding for projects that directly support local veteran communities,” Mr Griffin said.

The grants announced today will support a range of initiatives across Australia to help veterans, war widows and widowers stay socially and physically active, and to help them remain independent.

“Local communities play an essential role in encouraging veterans to participate in initiatives such as Day Clubs, Men’s Sheds and social excursions, to learn new skills and keep active,” Mr Griffin said.

“It is important that veterans have access to a range of programs that encourage a healthy, quality lifestyle, particularly for the elderly who live by themselves.

“For some, regular activities such as exercising and socialising with others can be difficult, and overcoming these difficulties can make a real difference to their lives.”

Veteran & Community Grants also help fund local initiatives that improve access to community care services and support for carers of veterans.

“Australia’s veterans deserve the best possible support services, and I am pleased the Australian Government can support initiatives which have such a positive impact at a local level,” Mr Griffin said.

Mr Griffin said local and ex-service organisations could apply for funding through the Veteran & Community Grants program, which is administered by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).

For further information about Veteran & Community Grants, visit www.dva.gov.au/health/grants