Parliament House Canberra ACT 2602
Telephone 02 6277 7820 Facsimile 02 6273 4140
The Hon Alan Griffin MP
Minister for Veterans Affairs
VA075
Sunday, 30 September 2009
DIG DEEP FOR LEGACY WEEK
Minister for Veterans Affairs Alan Griffin encouraged Australians to give generously during
Legacy Week, 30 August 5 September 2009.
Minister Griffin said the annual nation-wide fundraising week was an opportunity for Australians
to support a worthy cause that has been helping Australian Defence Force families to cope with
life after the loss of a loved one in service since 1923.
I encourage Australians to buy a badge during Legacy Week and support an organisation
providing invaluable support to the families of Australian Defence Force personnel who have
made the ultimate sacrifice for their country, Mr Griffin said.
Legacy Week will be launched in Sydney tomorrow with a Remembrance Ceremony attended
by the Governor-General, Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC, the Chief of the Defence
Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston AC, representatives of Legacy, widows and their
families.
Legacy is a non-profit organisation established by the ex-service community in 1923 to support
and care for the families of those lost in war.
Legacy supports more than 115,000 war widows from both World Wars, Korea and Vietnam as
well as the families of those who have lost a parent or partner in more recent deployments, Mr
Griffin said.
Legacy provides support in many forms including assistance to individuals tailored to their
needs such as welfare services, advocacy, medical and education support.
Legacy representatives are often among the first people to approach grieving families after the
loss of a loved one and their support and guidance are vital during these difficult times, Mr
Griffin said.
I am proud to support the annual appeal Legacy and my Department share the same goals of
providing the best care possible for the veteran community. By supporting Legacy and the work
of its volunteers this Legacy Week, you will help this valuable work continue.
For more information on Legacy or to donate visit www.legacy.com.au or call 1800 534 229.
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 Ministers media releases automatically by email subscribe at
minister.dva.gov.au/subscribe.htm