The Hon Matt Keogh MP
Minister for Veterans' Affairs
Minister for Defence Personnel
Veterans and families of veterans across Australia will soon benefit from more projects and activities that support their health, wellbeing and social connection.
The Australian Government has opened applications for the 2026-27 Veteran Wellbeing Grants (VWG) Program with more than $3.7 million in funding available.
The VWG Program supports sustainable projects that improve health and wellbeing outcomes, strengthen community connections and raise awareness of issues affecting the veteran community.
Eligible organisations can apply for:
- Small Grants of up to $50,000 for local, community-based projects and activities that support safe and accessible environments for veterans and families of veterans.
- Large Grants of between $50,001 and $200,000 for broader initiatives that improve health and wellbeing, strengthen social connection, build community capacity, expand existing services and raise awareness of issues affecting veterans and families of veterans.
In the previous funding round, grants supported a diverse range of initiatives, including family and veteran wellbeing camps, outdoor recreation programs, Indigenous-led wellbeing projects for First Nations veterans, trauma-informed yoga workshops, inclusive sports programs and the Dance for Veterans program.
Applications will close on 10 November 2026. Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to carefully review the updated Guidelines and submit applications that clearly demonstrate wellbeing outcomes for veterans and families.
To learn more about the program visit the Department of Veterans’ Affairs website.
Media Contact:
Stephanie Mathews (Minister Keogh’s Office) - 0407 034 485
DVA Media: media.team@dva.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