Supporting our younger veterans with community grants

THE 2020-21 round of the Australian Government’s Supporting Younger Veterans (SYV) grants
program is now open to ex-service organisations (ESOs) and their partner community groups
and organisations in Barker.

Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the program provides $1 million in funding to support
the mental health and wellbeing of younger veterans.

“This program allows ESOs and other community groups to boost targeted support and services
for younger veterans at the local level,” Mr Pasin said.

“I know from travelling around to our ESOs on my annual Bundy Run ahead of Anzac Day that
local communities know best what will benefit younger veterans and their families in their
communities. This funding will enable them to expand and improve existing services and support
programs for younger veterans, build the capacity for future services, and raise awareness of the
important issues our younger veterans face.

“This may include activities for younger veterans and their families, mentoring or other support
for veterans to assist with their transition to civilian life and employment, or online activities that
address stigma and raise awareness of mental health issues faced by younger veterans.

“I encourage all local ESO’s and community groups who provide services for veterans to get
involved and show their support for our younger veterans and their families.”

Mr Pasin said veteran mental health is a key priority for the Australian Government, with more
than $11 billion invested in the delivery of essential services and programs, including access to
free mental health care for veterans.

“We know that social connection is an important part of maintaining good mental health, so this
round of grants will enable our local ESOs and community groups to improve existing programs
or introduce new ones to support our younger veterans’ social wellbeing.”

Grants of up to $50,000 are available for local, community-based projects and activities, and a
small number of large grants of up to $150,000 are also available for projects that deliver
wellbeing support services and activities for the younger veteran community.

Applications for the SYV grants close 5 February 2021.

For more information or to submit an application, visit www.communitygrants.gov.au, call 1800
020 283 or email support@communitygrants.gov.au

Media Contact: Vanessa Juergens 0885 312466