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 Mallee

Federal Member for Mallee, Anne Webster 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,” Dr Webster said.

“Local communities know best what will benefit younger veterans and their families in their communities and 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 social inclusion and connectedness 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.”

Dr Webster 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.

“This year has been a tough one for many of us, and I recognise the potential impact coronavirus may have on recipients completing their projects with social distancing and other public health measures in place across the country,” Dr Webster said.

“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.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling, provides support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families. Free and confidential help is available 24/7. Phone 1800 011 046 (international: +61 1800 011 046 or +61 8 8241 4546) or visit www.OpenArms.gov.au