The Andrews Labor Government is continuing to back veterans and ensure they have the support they need to live happy and healthy lives.

Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle welcomed Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane at the Ballarat Veterans Assistance Centre today to announce a recent grant.

The Centre has received $7,400 through the ANZAC Day Proceeds Fund to develop a new website to keep veterans informed and ensure they stay connected wherever they are.

There are an estimated 5,000 veterans living in the Ballarat region and about double that across the whole of the Western District.

The Centre opened in 2019 and was established to provide a one-stop-shop for veterans to seek support, find information and connect with one another.

It’s a partnership between the Totally Permanently Incapacitated Ex-Servicemen and Women's Association of Victoria and the Military Brotherhood Motorcycle Club.

It is also supported by the City of Ballarat and the Ballarat RSL branch.

The new grant will help the Centre continue their good work, with further funding currently up for grabs for similar ex-service organisations across Victoria.

It includes the second round of the ANZAC Day Proceeds Fund which supports organisations providing direct assistance to veterans.

The Victoria Remembers Grants Program offers grants of up to $30,000 for projects that honour and commemorate the service of veterans or educate Victorians about the contributions of servicemen and women.

The Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour Program supports projects to restore or improve war memorials, honour rolls and avenues of honour with grants of up to $30,000.

Ex-service organisations, local government authorities, not-for-profits and educational institutions working to support veterans and their families in Ballarat and surrounds are encouraged to apply.

For more information, visit vic.gov.au/support-veterans.

Quote attributable to Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle

“The Andrews Labor Government is ensuring veterans living in Victoria are provided the best opportunities to lead full and successful lives.”

“This year, more than ever, we’ve seen the vital importance of staying connected – the new Ballarat Veterans Assistance Centre website will ensure veterans remain informed and in touch.”

“Victoria would not be what it is today without the great sacrifice of our servicemen and women and it is vital we continue to stand behind them.”