THE Nationals leader and Member for Murray Plains, Peter Walsh, is urging local RSL sub-branches to apply for their share of funding under three Victorian Government grant programs.
Mr Walsh said external funding would be crucial for many sub-branches this year after COVID-19 restrictions seriously impacted traditional revenue opportunities such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day.
He said he is aware the RSL as a group is feeling the pinch, and that major drop in cash flow would be felt beyond the next 12 months.
“While we are hopeful these major anniversaries on the Australian calendar will go ahead as normal in 2021, that won’t solve the opportunities lost in 2020,” Mr Walsh said.
“Having access to this new round of grants will help take the financial pressure off the shoulders of the few and enable them to start planning for the New Year,” he said.
“These grants are a fantastic opportunity to assist local sub-branches and ex-service organisations get back on their feet, with priority being given to projects responding to COVID-19.”
Applications for the following programs open on Wednesday (December 9):
- ANZAC Day Proceeds Fund
- Victoria Remembers Grant Program
- Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour
Mr Walsh said the ANZAC Day Proceeds Fund endeavours to provide support to the veteran community through the provision of funding for a range of welfare related activities, a key part of the RSL commitment to veterans and their families.
Priority for a proportion of the funding available will be given to projects responding to the impacts of COVID-19.
He said the Victoria Remembers Grant Program offers grants of up to $30,000 (ex GST) for projects
which honour or commemorate veterans’ service or educate Victorians about veterans’ contributions.
“The Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour offers grants of up to $30,000 (ex GST) for projects which restore community war memorials, honour rolls and avenues of honour – all things which can be found in almost every Australian regional or rural town or community hub,” Mr Walsh added.
Further information is available at vic.gov.au/grants-support-and-commemorate-veterans.