The Minns Labor Government is providing more than $112,000 in funding to support 70 veterans-related programs as part of the Veteran Community Grants Program (VCGP).
Funding will be provided to individuals, community groups, schools and ex-service organisations across the state, from Broken Hill in the far west, Bilambil Heights in the far north and the bordertown of Albury in the south.
Formerly known as the Anzac Community Grants Program, the 2025 round of the VCGP was the first delivered under a refreshed program design with more emphasis on funding projects that enhance veteran wellbeing, support recognition of the veteran community and events that acknowledge significant military anniversaries.
Successful applicants have been awarded up to $3,000 for projects that benefit both veterans and the wider community, including 24 educational institutions, 22 RSL sub-Branches and 9 other veteran organisations.
Grant recipients include the 2/30th Battalion A.I.F. Association who received $3,000 to assist with the commemoration of the 85th Anniversary of the Battle of Gemas.
The North Sydney RSL sub-Branch also received $2,400 in funding to support a series of safeTALK suicide awareness training courses to raise awareness about suicide and equip people will skills on how to take action when they encounter someone at risk.
The full list of VCGP recipients and more information about the program can be viewed here: https://www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/vcgp2025
Minister for Veterans David Harris said:
“The Minns Labor Government is committed to honouring and supporting veterans and their families.
“The newly refurbished Veteran Community Grants Program provides funding for a wide range of exceptional projects and initiatives that allow communities across the state to acknowledge Australia’s military service history along with educating future generations and enhancing the wellbeing of the veteran community.
“Applications were received for projects across 98 NSW suburbs, within 61 Local Government Areas and 66 State electorates and this funding awarded will make a real difference for many of these communities.”
Kerry Gilbert, President, 2/30th Battalion A.I.F. Association said:
“Thank you to the NSW Government for this funding which will contribute to the 85th Anniversary of the Battle of Gemas commemoration in 2027.
“This funding will help us bring together the descendants, families and friends of the men who served in the 2/30th Battalion and honour their service and sacrifice on this significant military anniversary.”
Bronte Pollard, Volunteer Advocate, North Sydney RSL sub-Branch said:
“On behalf of the North Sydney RSL sub-Branch, thank you to the NSW Government for this funding which will allow us to hold several safeTALK suicide awareness training sessions for veterans and their families.
“With these courses, we hope to not only educate and provide basic tools to help a person experiencing thoughts of suicide but to also breakdown the stigma attached to having such thoughts.”