The Hon Matt Keogh MP
Minister for Veterans' Affairs
Minister for Defence Personnel
The Albanese Government is providing $2.2 million in grants to preserve our wartime heritage and honour veterans in local communities across Australia.
Delivered through the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program, funding will go to 92 community-led projects aimed at helping Australians of all ages understand the sacrifices made in war, conflict and peacekeeping operations.
Community groups, schools, ex-service organisations and local governments will deliver the projects.
A mixture of traditional commemorative spaces and creative projects such as books, podcasts and documentaries have been selected for funding.
The Veterans’ Affairs Minister Matt Keogh announced the funding alongside Member for Leichardt Matt Smith at the Mossman Cenotaph in Far North Queensland.
RSL Australia’s Mossman Sub-Branch has been awarded $50,466 for restoration work on the Mossman Cenotaph, one of our northernmost war memorials and an important monument for recognising the sense of duty that shaped regional Australia.
Since its inception, the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program has funded thousands of projects nationwide, creating lasting tributes in communities large and small to ensure we continue to honour our veterans for many generations to come.
For more information about the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program, including how to apply for the 2026-27 funding round, please visit the STS Grants website.
Quotes attributable to Veterans’ Affairs Minister Matt Keogh:
“The projects we are funding today help local communities large and small to honour the service and sacrifice of veterans for generations to come.
“Just as importantly, they bring people of all ages together to reflect on the impact of war and conflict on their local community.
“Ensuring the stories behind the names of those that served our nation are told in our local communities is an important way in which we ensure we put into practice the words ‘Lest we forget’.
Quotes attributable to Matt Smith, Member for Leichardt:
"It's a universal truth that ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day are two of the most significant dates in the Australian calendar, when we all come together to commemorate the ultimate sacrifice that service men and women have given to protect our country and way of life in past conflicts.
“The Mossman Cenotaph is particularly significant as the focal point of commemorative ceremonies for residents of the Douglas Shire, with an impressive landscaped garden and fully accessible paved area.
Congratulations to the Mossman RSL Sub-Branch on receiving this grant for restoration work on the Mossman Cenotaph so that future generations can continue to pay respect to the fallen diggers."
List of Recipients
2025-26 Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program (Batch 2) recipients
South Australia
| Recipient | Funding description | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Australian Engineers Association of South Australia | This project is to purchase framing including artwork for a new marching banner due to the change of monarch. | $500.00 |
| Hallett Community and Sports Association Inc | This project is to restore the Hallett Cenotaph at Hallett Community and Sporting Association Inc in SA. | $4,730.00 |
| Curramulka Community Club | This project is to create a memorial in the main hall of the Curramulka Institute to commemorate veterans from Curramulka and the surrounding district. | $6,428.00 |
| Corporation of the City of Whyalla | This project is to restore and open to the public the Petty Officers Quarters on the HMAS Whyalla, one of two surviving Bathurst Class corvette minesweepers from WWII. | $7,200.00 |
| Anglican Parish of Port Adelaide | This project is to restore an Honour Roll which was installed in 1918 and is part of a Memorial Alcove located at state heritage site, St Paul's Church. | $8,100.00 |
| RSL of Australia (SA Branch) Renmark Sub Branch Inc | This project is to replace a wooden seat with a plasma cut bench seat and standalone stainless-steel plasma cut bin. | $8,360.00 |
| Belvidere Memorial Hall Inc | This project is to restore the Honour Roll and develop a digital Honour Roll at the Belvidere Memorial Hall in SA. | $8,850.00 |
| RSL of Australia (SA Branch) Henley Grange Sub Branch Inc | This project is to install compactus storage units and new display cabinets due to expanded memorabilia donations. | $9,801.00 |
| Kingston District Council | This project is to undertake restoration works of the Kingston War Memorial. | $10,000.00 |
| Kangaroo Island Council | This project is to restore the Bernie Davies War Memorial on Kangaroo Island. | $28,893.00 |
| RSL Strathalbyn Sub Branch Inc | This project is to complete a pictorial mural on the walls of the RSL depicting Australians involvement in conflict from the Boer war to Drones. | $85,000.00 |
| Historic Ketch 'Falie' | This project is to produce a documentary on the Ketch Falie - Stories from the Sea (Falie - Quite Courage), to commemorate its role during WWII. | $102,003.00 |
| SUB TOTAL | $279,865.00 |
Victoria
| Recipient | Funding description | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Boer War Association of Victoria Inc | This project is to manufacture and install a bronze plaque at the South African Soldiers Memorial, South Melbourne. This will honour and preserve the memory of Australian service personnel who served in the South African War. | $1,667.00 |
| Creswick Smeaton RSL Sub Branch Patriotic Fund | This project is to restore a field of crosses in memorial gardens including the restoration of the seating area and the memorial garden beds. | $2,035.00 |
| National Servicemen's Assoc of Australia Inc | This project is to place a commemorative plaque dedicated to the National Servicemen of the Sunbury Sub-Branch within the school grounds at Sunbury Downs Secondary College. | $2,345.00 |
| Goorambat Veterans Retreat Inc | This project is to purchase a suitable Yard Arm Flagpole. | $2,500.00 |
| St Joseph's School Yarra Junction | This project is to purchase and install two new flagpoles at the front of the school. | $2,500.00 |
| The Gentleman's Wargame Club Inc | This project is to create a display at the tabletop gaming event (MEGA26) commemorating Australian Service personnel. | $3,350.00 |
| RSL of Australia (VIC Branch) Inglewood Bridgewater | This project is to create a new Memorial Wall at Inglewood Bridgewater RSL. | $4,785.00 |
| The Maritime Trust of Australia Inc | This project is to recreate the sick bay with a first-aid cabinet made to the original 1940 drawings in the museum ship HMAS Castlemaine as it was in service. | $5,231.00 |
| St Leonards Progress Association Inc | This project is to mount 42 WWI Soldiers Photographs for safe display. | $5,257.00 |
| Keilor East RSL Sub Branch Inc | This project is to update and expand the memorabilia displays at the Keilor East RSL Sub Branch. | $5,423.37 |
| Rosedale RSL Sub Branch Inc | This project is to install three new plaques and engage a stonemason to carve into the RSL's existing cenotaph. | $6,000.00 |
| Vasey RSL Care Limited | This project is to develop a dedicated commemorative space at VRSLCs Ex-Service Accommodation site in Bundoora. | $6,571.00 |
| Moe RSL Sub Branch Inc | This project is to install a six-metre display cabinet to showcase local veterans for all conflicts . |
$9,000.00 |
| Nourish Nation Foundation Inc | This project is to deliver a community education project "Serving the Memory" that aims to help young people and families understand and honour the service and sacrifice of Australia's veterans. | $10,000.00 |
| Bhuminanda Dhaulidevi Foundation Inc | This project is to deliver community-based education sessions that help migrant and refugee children understand and appreciate the service and sacrifice of Australian veterans. | $10,000.00 |
| City of Bendigo Brass Band Inc | This project is to hold a commemorative concert to mark the 85th anniversary of the bombing of Darwin. | $10,000.00 |
| City of Greater Geelong | This project is to restore the Geelong Naval and Maritime Textiles Collection. | $31,122.71 |
| RSL of Australia (VIC Branch) Ringwood Sub Branch Inc | This project is to create the "Young At Heart" Photography Exhibition & Website, focused on commemorating young Veterans from modern-day conflicts. | $61,938.00 |
| Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust | This project is to create a War Memorial honouring service of Lake Tyers Aboriginal men and women from the community who have served in Australia's defence forces. | $103,625.00 |
| Creative Ranges Foundation Ltd | This project is to create a multimedia portrait of the real people who went to war. | $141,450.00 |
| Shrine of Remembrance Trustees | This project is to restore the Memorial Garden Courtyard commemorative boardwalk. | $150,000.00 |
| SUB TOTAL | $574,800.08 |
New South Wales
| Recipient | Funding description | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Central Coast Commemoration Guard | This project is to perform an army reenactment unit displaying close order marching, flag and weapons drill for the purpose of providing memorial guards and catafalque party at Remembrance services. | $1,600.00 |
| Headquarters 1st Australian Task Force Association | This project is to commemorate 60 years from arriving into Nui Dat, South Vietnam by hosting a memorial service and commemorative event. | $2,100.00 |
| RSL of Australia (NSW Branch) North Sydney | This project is to replace 4 bronze plaques which were stolen from the Tramway Workers Memorial, ANZAC Park, North Sydney. | $3,794.00 |
| The Entrance Long Jetty RSL Sub Branch | This project is to purchase a TV, wall bracket, and sound bar to display war videos in the entrance of their War Museum. | $3,954.00 |
| Monteagle Village & Community Association Inc | This project is to fund the purchase of two commemorative plaques at Monteagle Village War Memorial in NSW. | $5,000.00 |
| Gloucester Sub Branch of the RSL of Australia (NSW Branch) | This project is to create a double sided outdoor memorial plaque with brief history and photographs in the Gloucester Memorial Park. | $5,050.00 |
| Empire Bay Progress Association Inc | This project is to create a memorial garden around the Empire Bay War Memorial. | $6,500.00 |
| Jamberoo Rural Fire Service | This project is to create a commemorative space at Jamberoo Fire Brigade including installation of a flagpole and landscaping the surrounding space. Jamberoo, NSW. | $5,524.00 |
| RSL of Australia (NSW Branch) Kiama Jamberoo Sub Branch | This project is to restore a Japanese Gun's wheels and build a new concrete platform for the Gun at Kiama Jamberoo RSL. | $5,800.00 |
| Uralla Memorial Literary Institute | This project is to renovate and purchase necessary equipment to create a cinema room at Uralla Memorial. | $6,782.00 |
| The Bunker Cartoon Gallery Inc | This project is to establish a permanent memorial display highlighting the support that the Bunker provided to the RAN and RAAF during WWII. | $7,500.00 |
| RSL of Australia (NSW Branch) Nambucca Heads Sub Branch | This project is to restore the Nambucca Heads Cenotaph at Nambucca Heads Sub Branch. | $8,000.00 |
| Bland Shire Council | This project is to restore the inscriptions of fallen soldiers' names on the central monument and entrance memorial plaques at Tallimba Memorial Park. | $8,386.00 |
| RSL of Australia (NSW Branch) Tingha RSL Sub Branch | This project is to restore the Tingha memorial. | $9,089.05 |
| Historical Aircraft Restoration Society | This project is to purchase two glass display cabinets to display donated medals and war time memorabilia. | $9,770.00 |
| Port Stephens Family History Society Inc | This project is to develop an interactive Peace Trail in Peace Park, Tanilba Bay, and share recordings of Stories of Service for service personnel and families who live on the Tilligerry Peninsula. | $9,845.00 |
| Liverpool City Council | This project is to install a commemorative artwork at the Liverpool Regional War Memorial, NSW. | $9,990.00 |
| Prestons Public School | This project is to establish a memorial commemorating Australia's service personnel, for the students to have a designated area for remembrance day and ANZAC observations. | $10,000.00 |
| Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council | This project is to construct a new memorial and flagpole with landscaping at the Royalla Community Hall. | $10,000.00 |
| Shire Military History Club Inc | This project is to commission a bronze bust with plaque to commemorate nurses from all wars. | $10,000.00 |
| 23ACU Camden Inc | This project is to replace the old equipment required for the 23 Army Cadet Unit. | $10,000.00 |
| RSL of Australia (NSW Branch) Parkes Sub Branch | This project is to refurbish and relocate the Memorabilia Area at the Parkes Sub Branch of the RSL of Australia. | $10,000.00 |
| Dept of Communities and Justice Corrective Services NSW | This project is to establish a Veterans Reflection and Commemoration Garden within the centre grounds of the Cessnock Corrective Centre. | $10,000.00 |
| Oberon Council | This project is to restore and enhance the Burraga War Memorial Park. | $10,000.00 |
| RSL of Australia (NSW Branch) Bomaderry Sub Branch | This project is to install three custom Park Benches at the Walsh Memorial Park. | $10,000.00 |
| RSL of Australia (NSW Branch) Walgett Sub Branch | This project is to restore the Lightning Ridge War Memorial at RSL of Australia (NSW Branch) Walgett Sub Branch. | $10,000.00 |
| Friends Holbrook Submarine Museum Inc | This project is to transport and purchase a display cabinet to display a 3D printed model of Australian Submarine AE2 at The Holbrook Submarine Museum, Submarine Precinct. | $12,500.00 |
| Wingecarribee Shire Council | This project is to repair and conserve the Bowral Vietnam War Memorial. | $32,400.00 |
| North Sydney Council | This project is to update the North Sydney war memorial to include 258 local men who are unacknowledged. | $37,610.00 |
| Media Heads Pty Ltd | This project is to produce a radio series of 30 x 90-second episodes for the 60th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. | $45,385.00 |
| RSL of Australia (NSW Branch) - App 2 | This project is to construct a permanent memorial at Old Bar to honour the Service and Sacrifice of Australian service personnel. | $66,034.55 |
| ACTS Education Pty Ltd | This project is to create Veteran Conversational Avatars - Bringing Commemorative Learning to Life. | $96,500.00 |
| Hunter Anzac Memorial Limited | This project is to create a new life size scale bronze sculpture of a WWI infantry soldier at the Greta-Branxton Memorial Shared Pathway to honour the service and sacrifice of local men and women. | $144,580.00 |
| One Giant Leap Australia Pty Limited | This project is to produce digital content called 'From ANZAC Cove to the Moon Australian Women Who Dare'. | $145,000.00 |
| SUB TOTAL | $778,693.60 |
Queensland
| Recipient | Funding description | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Regis Aged Care Pty Ltd | This project is to install a flagpole at the nursing home. | $580.00 |
| St. Thomas Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church Brisbane Inc | This project is to install a commemorative flagpole in front of the church. | $2,500.00 |
| Jimna Community Development Association Inc | This project is to install a plaque at the Jimna ANZAC Commemorative Wall. | $3,515.00 |
| Cardwell & District Historical Society Inc | This project is to replace old signage at the Battle of the Coral Sea Park Memorial. | $3,945.00 |
| RSL of Australia (QLD Branch) Toowong Sub Branch Inc | This project is to refurbish a military monument commemorating dog handlers and their military working dogs which is located at the RSPCA Campus. | $5,643.00 |
| Greenmount State School P&C Association | This project is to refurbish the Greenmount State School ANZAC memorial. | $6,000.00 |
| Totally and Permanently Disabled Ex Servicepersons Association (Townsville) Inc | This project is to install three metal silhouettes mounted on metal platforms depicting the three ADF services. | $10,000.00 |
| RSL of Australia (QLD Branch) Tully Sub Branch | This project is to restore the War Memorial in Mitchell Park Tully in QLD. | $10,000.00 |
| RSL of Australia (QLD Branch) Mackay Sub Branch Inc | This project is to construct a memorial at Jubilee Park to honour ADF personnel who served from 1975 to present. | $10,000.00 |
| RSL of Australia (QLD Branch) St Helens Sub Branch | This project is to frame and display a photo and service history of all veterans on the Honour board roll. | $10,000.00 |
| RSL of Australia (QLD Branch) Bray Park - Strathpine Sub Branch Inc | This project is to restore and upgrade the safety of Bray Park-Strathpine Memorial with all-weather protection for attendees. | $10,000.00 |
| Woorabinda Aboriginal Council | This project is to construct a new Woorabinda War Memorial. | $45,000.00 |
| RSL of Australia (QLD Branch) Mossman Sub Branch Inc | This project is to renovate the Mossman Cenotaph in Far North QLD. | $50,466.00 |
| Cockscomb Veterans Bush Retreat Inc | This project is to construct a new Vietnam War memorial wall made out of black granite with brass plaques. | $71,800.00 |
| Afghanistan Avenue of Honour Association Inc | This project is to restore the Afghanistan Avenue of Honour lighting restoration and commemorative signage. | $69,847.64 |
| SUB TOTAL | $309,296.64 |
Western Australia
| Recipient | Funding description | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Shire of Boyup Brook | This project is to construct a walkway along the Walk of Remembrance at the local War Memorial in Boyup Brook. | $6,000.00 |
| SAS Historical Foundation | This project is to replace the existing deteriorated paved walkway with concrete at the SASR Garden of Reflection Walkway. | $6,000.00 |
| Shire of Mt Marshall | This project is to construct the Beacon War Memorial. | $6,780.00 |
| Shire of Upper Gascoyne | This project is to create a digital honour roll to be installed at Upper Gascoyne War Memorial in Two Rivers Memorial Park. | $10,000.00 |
| Kentian Society Inc | This project is to produce digital content about the Kent Street Senior High School to commemorate former students, staff and family members who served in Australia's armed forces. | $17,420.00 |
| Shire of Bruce Rock | This project is to celebrate the 2026 Back to the Bush 25th Reunion | $30,000.00 |
| City of Greater Geraldton | This project is to host an event to commemorate the 85th anniversary since the loss of the HMAS Sydney II & restoration of the memorial dome. | $148,150.00 |
| SUB TOTAL | $224,350.00 |
Australian Capital Territory
| Recipient | Funding description | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Submarine Institute of Australia Inc | This project is to purchase high quality recording and storage equipment, to create oral histories from Australian submariners past and present through the Submarine Institute. | $9,082.00 |
| SUB TOTAL | $9,082.00 |
Tasmania
| Recipient | Funding description | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Central Coast Council | This project is to restore the Shropshire Naval Park Memorial due to mortar joint deterioration, located at Ulverstone TAS. | $7,994.09 |
| Devonport RSL Sub Branch Inc | This project is to automate lighting and AV integration for daily ode delivery. | $10,000.00 |
| SUB TOTAL | $17,994.09 | |
| Total – ALL STATES | $2,194,081.41 |
Authorised by The Hon Matt Keogh MP.
Media contact
Stephanie Mathews (Minister Keogh’s Office): 0407 034 485
Defence Media: media@defence.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