Applications are open for the Anzac Day Trust Grants Program as part of a wide-ranging support package to help Australian veterans.
The annual grants program provides funding for veterans' organisations to support ex-defence service personnel with employment transition and mental health care.
Last year, $1.3 million in grants of between $800 and $200,000 were allocated to Western Australian organisations to run programs providing direct support to veterans and their families.
Funding for the grants comes from the Anzac Day Trust, which was established as part of the Anzac Day Act 1960. Under the Act, part proceeds from race meetings and organised sporting events held on Anzac Day must contribute to the trust.
The funding is boosted by an annual grant from the State Government.
In 2021, Legacy WA used grant funding to support the families of veterans in building social connections, as well as assist in managing emotional and financial security.
The sinking of HMAS Sydney (II) was commemorated with a weekend of events funded by the grants program in 2021 and the HMAS Perth (I) Memorial Foundation received funding to build a memorial in East Fremantle.
This year, the Anzac Day Trust is providing $500,000 in funding support for the establishment of a Veterans' Employment Program in Western Australia.
The Veterans' Employment Program is a partnership between Working Spirit and the Returned and Services League in WA. They will deliver a comprehensive employment program for veterans and their families, including the development of a veteran-specific jobs portal.
On April 22, the WA Government released a request for tender process for organisations to supply assistance dogs to the Veterans and First Responder Support Dog Program.
Assistance dogs have been shown to deliver positive outcomes for those suffering post-traumatic stress disorder. Companion animals help people feel a sense of safety, improve interpersonal connections and regain other lost areas of functioning as a result of their trauma.
Applications for the 2022 Anzac Day Trust Grants Program open on April 26, 2022 and close on July 1, 2022.
For more information, visit https://www.wa.gov.au/government/announcements/anzac-day-trust-grant-2022
As stated by Defence Industry and Veterans Issues Minister Paul Papalia:
"It's impossible to measure the service Australia's veterans have given their country.
"Anzac Day Trust Grants offer an opportunity for organisations to provide the support and assistance our veterans deserve.
"The assistance dogs and Veterans' Employment Program will support veterans and their families transition to a new life after serving the Australian Defence Force."
