EX-SERVICE ORGANISATIONS RECEIVE FUNDING BOOST

MORE than $3.8 million in funding will be provided to veteran organisations providing essential advice, advocacy and welfare services for veterans, serving members and their families along with war widows and widowers through the Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) grants program. 

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said ex-service organisations (ESOs) were making a real difference in the lives of veterans and Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel, by providing essential services they need and this funding will go a long way to continue this.

“I am pleased to announce that this year the BEST grants program will support 159 ex-service organisations across Australia to continue providing support and advice to the veteran community,” Mr Chester said.

“The ESO community in Australia plays an essential role in supporting our veterans and this funding helps these organisations continue their essential work – veterans helping other veterans, when they need it.  

“Congratulations to all successful organisations and thank you for the work that you do to support our veterans and their families.”

Mr Chester said BEST grants fund ESOs for a range of veteran support measures, including salaries for trained advocates and pension staff, essential office supplies, computer equipment, internet access or other administrative needs.

“This Government is committed to providing ongoing support for our many veterans, war widows and widowers, current serving ADF personnel and their families by delivering the essential services they rely on,” Mr Chester said.

For more information on BEST grants visit www.dva.gov.au/grants or call 133 254 or 1800 555 254 for regional callers.