$4.551 million in grant funding available for advocacy services

Ex-service organisations (ESOs) are encouraged to apply for a share of  $4.551 million funding through the Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) grants program. 

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said applications for grants are now open and encouraged ESOs that provide compensation and/or wellbeing advocacy services to veterans and families to apply. 

“ESOs play a vital role in supporting the veteran community, providing localised services and support to current and former serving personnel,” Minister Keogh said.

“This Australian Government funding will support ESOs provide advocacy services, to ensure veterans are receiving accurate advice and assistance about claims, entitlements and services.”

Grant funding awarded through the BEST grants program, managed by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, must be used for covering costs relating to advocacy services, and is available to all ESOs that provide this type of support.

“Having advocates who are Advocacy Training and Development Program qualified, providing support to veterans means claims can be submitted at a faster rate, and to a high standard. When claims are submitted with all required documentation, it ultimately means veterans get the help they need faster,” Minister Keogh said.

“By applying for a BEST grant, ESOs can continue to provide essential services to the veteran community.”

Applications are now open, and will close at 9.00 pm AEDT on 23 February 2023. For more information about the program, including information on how to apply, visit the Grants website.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or the Open Arms website. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or the Defence Health Portal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608