News
31 August, 2024
Supporting veterans
Kilcoy RSL has received nearly $13,000 in federal funding as part of the Federal Government’s Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) grants program.
Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said ex-service organisations (ESOs), community organisations, and other local veteran groups played a crucial role in supporting the health and wellbeing of the defence and veteran communities.
“BEST grants are an important way to assist ESOs in providing pension, welfare, and advocacy services, and to support veterans and their families seeking compensation and other assistance,” Mr Neumann said.
“I congratulate and thank those who do an outstanding job supporting veterans and their families in the Somerset Region, and I encourage veterans who may require assistance to reach out to them.”
The BEST grants program funds a range of essential support measures from ESOs, advocates, and welfare practitioners who continue to provide advice and assistance to the veteran and defence community.
“We know the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) and claims processes can be complex and difficult to navigate,” he said.
“Many veterans and their families face a range of challenging circumstances, and they rely on these organisations to access the payments and other support they need.”
BEST grants are available to assist organisations with the salary costs of military compensation advocates who help veterans with their claims for compensation, administrative assistants who support this work, as well as equipment and administrative expense assistance.
Two other Blair organisations shared in the $162,000 funding, including the Veterans’ Advocacy Community of Practice Brisbane West, who received $145,255, and Ipswich Railway Sub Branch RSL, who received $3,868.
For more information on BEST grants, visit the DVA website: www.dva.gov.au/about-us/overview/consultationsand-grants/grants-andbursaries/buildingexcellence-support-and-2
