The Australian Government will spend $6.7 million over the next four years to ensure the veteran community receives quality assistance through the Community Care Grants program, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Bruce Billson, announced today. Mr Billson said Community Care Grants provided vital assistance to ex-service and community organisations, veteran representative groups and private organisations that contribute to improvements in the quality of life of members of the veteran community.

“Community Care Grants provide an important source of funding for projects that support a healthy, quality lifestyle for members of the veteran community,” Mr Billson said. “Today’s announcement demonstrates the Government’s commitment to supporting organisations dedicated to the welfare of Australia’s veterans.”

Projects and initiatives supported through the grants program have included day clubs, the purchase of equipment for Men’s Sheds around Australia, health programs, including Cooking for One or Two and Living Longer, Living Stronger, a strength training program, and a range of social activities for the veteran community.

The program also funds projects that help veterans, war widows and widowers continue to live independently in their own homes, as well as initiatives that reduce social isolation, improve access to community care services and support carers. The Australian Government is providing much needed support for a range of projects designed to help veterans, war widows and widowers, and their dependants across Australia,” Mr Billson said.

“Our veterans are deserving of our support for their service and sacrifice in the defence of our nation, and for their continuing role in the development of our community.”

Community Care Grants are administered by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) through its overarching Veteran & Community Grants program, which provided grants totalling more than $2.5 million during 2006.