EX-SERVICE ORGANISATIONS (ESOs) and other veteran groups in Mallee which provide advocacy services to veterans and their families have today received $24,381 as part of the Governments Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) grants program.

Member for Mallee, Anne Webster, said ESOs, community organisations and other local veteran groups play a crucial role in supporting the health and welfare of the veteran community.

“The BEST grants program provides these groups with an opportunity to expand on their services to further support veterans and their families,” Dr Webster said.

“As part of this round of BEST, funding has been provided to the Swan Hill & District Veterans Information Centre ($11,408) and the Wimmera Veteran Centre ($12,973) which are committed to helping the veterans and their families in Mallee,” Dr Webster said.

“I congratulate and thank these organisations who continually support veterans and their families, and encourage veterans who may require additional 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. This round of BEST saw $4.2 million provided nationally to support organisations.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said staying connected with local ESOs and other veteran groups that provide advocacy services is vital in ensuring our veteran community is receiving the support they need.

“These organisations complement the support provided by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and show just how deeply the community is committed to putting veterans and their families first,” Mr Chester said.

“At this time more than ever, advocacy services through ESOs can help our veterans and their families with their claims, entitlements and other services.”

For more information on BEST grants visit the grants page on the Department of Veterans’ Affairs website at www.dva.gov.au/grants