Recognising the Service of First World War Diggers

As ANZAC Day approaches, the Australian Government has formally launched the Marking First World War Private Graves Grants Program.

Community groups, ex-service organisations and individuals can now apply for assistance of up to $450 to provide a grave marker to mark the graves of First World War veterans, whose death was unrelated to their war service.

“The program provides funding to help establish a graveside commemoration for those veterans who returned home and passed away of causes unrelated to their war service, with many at rest in unmarked graves not receiving the recognition they deserve.” Minister Keogh said.

“While the Government has commemorated many thousands of veterans of the First World War, those who did not pass away as a result of their war service may not have been found eligible for an official commemoration, such as a grave provided by the Office of Australian War Graves.”

Before an application can be made to the grants program, applicants must first apply to the Repatriation Commission to determine if the veteran’s cause of death was linked to their war service. In this case, the veteran will be provided an official commemoration by the Office of Australian War Graves.

The opening of applications for the Marking First World War Private Graves Grants Program fulfils yet another election commitment of the Albanese Labor Government.

The Marking First World War Private Graves Grants Program will be administered by the Office of Australian War Graves, with ongoing maintenance of the private memorials provided by the family, the relevant cemetery authority or other burial right holder.

Applications for this years’ program close on 20 June 2023.

To learn more about the program and apply for a grant, visit www.grants.gov.au

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