Parliament House Canberra ACT 2602
Telephone 02 6277 7820 Facsimile 02 6273 4140
The Hon Alan Griffin MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
VA099f
Thursday, 26 November 2009
$4000 FOR PROJECTS TO HONOUR AUSTRALIA’S VETERANS IN THE ACT
Two local organisations in the ACT received a financial boost today with the announcement of
$4245 in funding approved by the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, for projects
honouring Australia’s wartime heritage.
Mr Griffin said the funding is part of the Australian Government’s Saluting Their Service
Commemorative grants program to help communities across the nation honour and
commemorate our wartime history.
“The grants will fund local activities and initiatives that recognise the service and sacrifice of
Australians who have served in wars, conflicts and peace operations,” Mr Griffin said.
“Today, the Government is announcing funding for a range of projects including restoring and
displaying wartime memorabilia, upgrading community war memorials, purchasing association
banners and holding commemorative events.
“In particular, helping regional and rural communities across Australia maintain their places of
remembrance is an important function of this grants program as these memorials play a central
role in honouring local sons and daughters who have served the nation.
“Commemorative activities in local communities play a major role in encouraging Australians –
especially younger Australians – to learn about our wartime experiences and provide an
opportunity for veterans to share their stories.
“Australia has a proud wartime history that has been part of the lives of so many Australian
families. The Government remains committed to honouring those who have served and
continue to serve, ensuring their legacy is remembered for generations to come.”
Mr Griffin encouraged local community and ex-service organisations interested in applying for
metropolitan callers) or 1800 555 254 (for non-metropolitan callers).
Editors note: Grant recipients from the ACT:
The Merchant Navy Association will receive $245 to help purchase an Australian Red Ensign to fly at
the Merchant Navy Memorial in Kings Park, Canberra.
The ACT RSL Branch will receive $4000 to help upgrade the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
war memorial at Mount Ainslie. The upgrade will include stabilising the existing gravel path and
installing seating.
Media inquiries: Belinda Cole 0437 863 109
The VVCS – Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service can be contacted 24 hours a day, seven days a
week on 1800 011 046.
To receive the Minister’s media releases automatically by email subscribe at minister.dva.gov.au/subscribe.htm
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