Funding now available to support veteran advocacy

Ex-service organisations (ESOs) can now apply for a share in over $4.8 million through the Albanese Government’s Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) Grants Program. 

This funding will help ESOs to advocate for veterans and their families as well as assist with their entitlements and compensation claims. 

The Program is part of our commitment to ensuring veterans have easy access to qualified advocates who can work with them to navigate the claims process, and receive the support they need faster.

Funding delivered through the BEST grants program can be used by ESOs for staff salaries as well as administrative costs associated with the delivery of advocacy services, such as purchasing office equipment and domestic travel.

This program follows the passage of the VETS Act to simplify and harmonise Australia’s veteran compensation system, making it faster and easier to understand for veterans, families and advocates.

Applications for the 2025-26 BEST Grants round are open now, and will close at 9.00 pm AEDT on 28 April 2025. 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