Queensland remembering veterans through grants program

JOINT STATEMENT
  • Third round of the Queensland Remembers Grants Program supporting veterans is now open
  • Palaszczuk Government has committed $5.9 million over four annual rounds
  • The opening of round three of the program coincides with Vietnam Veterans' Day, which is observed on 18 August each year

The Palaszczuk Government's commitment to the veterans' community is emphasised today with the opening of the third round of the $5.9 million Queensland Remembers Grants Program.

The program enables eligible organisations to deliver projects or events that support Queensland veterans and their families.

This includes funding for ex-service and not-for-profit organisations to undertake major and minor capital works projects.

Funding is also available for commemorative memorials and gardens, and projects and events that demonstrate our respect for Queensland's veterans' community.

Local councils are also welcome to apply for funding in the Community Grants Program.

The State Government announced a $4 million commitment to the program in 2020.

In the 2023 Budget, an additional $1.9 million was committed to expand the program with a fourth round.

The third round of the Queensland Remembers Grants Program has opened for applications today, coinciding with Vietnam Veterans' Day.

On this day in 1966, the Battle of Long Tan took place. Australia played a significant role during the Vietnam War, contributing more than 60,000 ground troops, air force and navy personnel.

During the campaign, 523 Australians died and approximately 2,500 Australians were wounded.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War, with the withdrawal of troops starting in January 1973.

To mark this important anniversary, the Queensland Government invites Queensland Vietnam Veterans or their families to share their experiences of the Vietnam War.

These stories will be published on the Queensland Veterans' Portal and will enhance our understanding of the experiences of Queenslanders during the Vietnam War.

Quotes attributable to the Premier:

"This year, we recognise all those who served in the Vietnam War as we mark 50 years since the end of Australia's involvement.

"Today, on Vietnam Veterans' Day, we are opening the next round of grants for veterans' community organisations.

"Our Government is committed to the welfare of veterans, their families, and the organisations that support them.

"We know this funding can make a big difference, whether it's to improve facilities or to create a dedicated memorial."

Quotes attributable to the Assistant Minister to the Premier for Veterans' Affairs and the Public Sector Bart Mellish:

"This year, the Queensland Remembers Grants Program has received additional funding to emphasise the importance the Queensland Government places on supporting veterans and their families.

"The capital works, memorials, and other projects supported through this grants program will remind Queenslanders about the sacrifice made by our veterans and their families.

"It is poignant that we open this latest round of funding through the program on Vietnam Veterans' Day which, this year, marks the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War."

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