Funding to properly recognise WWI graves

Every Australian who served in the First World War deserves to be commemorated in a manner befitting their service.

Yet the remains of many returned First World War veterans lie in unmarked graves, usually because they lacked the family or funds for a funeral.

The Albanese Government is announcing $108,000 in funding to mark these veterans’ graves in accordance with the respect they are due.

Families, Ex Service Organisations and community groups can now apply for grants of up to $620 per grave to establish a grave marker under the Marking (First World War) Private Graves (MPG) Grants Program.

The last round of this program awarded grants for 182 private grave markers, including a grant to the Longreach Archival and Historical Research Group to honour Martin Riley, a local serviceman who returned to the area after the war and passed away on 20 November, 1928 but was buried in an unmarked grave.

More than 330,000 Australians served in the Great War, with more than 270,000 returning to Australia after their service. 

The Marking Private Graves Program is one way the Albanese Government is protecting their dignity and ensuring their service is never forgotten.

Applications are now open and will close on 20 November 2025.

To learn more about the program, visit https://dva.gov.au/dvagrants.

Photos below concerning Mr Martin Riley
 

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