The New South Wales government has significantly boosted funding for its Veterans Community Grants program, doubling the available amount to $205,000 for the 2026 round. This expansion aims to support a wider array of projects dedicated to recognizing and commemorating the service and sacrifices of Australian veterans and their families across the state.
Expanded Funding and New Categories
For the upcoming 2026 grant round, the total funding available has increased from $100,000 in 2025 to $205,000. This substantial increase reflects a commitment to enhancing support for veteran-focused initiatives. A notable addition to the program this year is the introduction of a new Infrastructure and Equipment category. This category is designed to assist organizations in improving their facilities and equipment that directly benefit veterans and their families. Eligible improvements can include minor building repairs, upgrades to essential equipment, enhancements to lighting, the acquisition of storage solutions, marquees for events, and the provision of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).
Under the new Infrastructure and Equipment category, eligible organizations can apply for grants of up to $10,000. The program also continues to offer funding for other vital areas, with grants of up to $3,000 available for:
- Local history, heritage, and education projects that preserve and share veteran stories.
- Public commemorative events designed to honor service and sacrifice.
- The development and maintenance of commemorative spaces and activities that provide direct support to members of the NSW veteran community.
Impact and Previous Successes
In the previous grant round, 70 projects received funding, underscoring the program’s reach and impact. These projects were instrumental in commemorating and educating NSW communities about the contributions of current and former servicemen and servicewomen. Examples of successful initiatives from last year include an upgrade to the Rocky Hill Memorial Museum’s Firearms and Weapon Display, an archery program established to support veteran wellbeing, and the creation of a school Anzac mural.
The program actively encourages a broad range of applicants, including educational institutions, ex-service organizations, community groups, local government associations, museums, historical societies, and individuals. This inclusive approach ensures diverse perspectives and projects can receive support.
Application Details and Minister’s Statement
The application period for the 2026 Veterans Community Grants program opens today. The deadline for submissions is 5:00 PM on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. Further information and application details are accessible via the official NSW Veterans website at www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/VCGP.
Minister for Veterans, David Harris, expressed his enthusiasm for the program’s expansion. “I am pleased to announce the opening of the Veteran Community Grants Program, which provides funding for projects across the state that support veterans while educating communities about the significance of our military history,” Harris stated. “For 11 years, the program has supported initiatives that honour the service and sacrifice of ex-serving military personnel. The changes to this year’s program and increased funding will enable us to support more projects.” He added, “I encourage organizations and community groups to submit applications and look forward to seeing the valuable projects that will strengthen appreciation of our veterans’ contributions across New South Wales.”
Community Testimonials Highlight Program Value
Recipients of previous grants have shared how the funding has made a tangible difference. Justin Croft, Museums Coordinator at Goulburn Mulwaree Council, highlighted the importance of the grant for the Rocky Hill Memorial Museum. “Thank you to the NSW Government for the grant funding as part of the 2025-26 Veteran Community Grants Program, to help us upgrade the Rocky Hill Memorial Museum Firearms and Weapon Display,” Croft said. “This funding was vitally important as it allows us to honour those from our community who served in the Great War.”
Bradley Silveright, Vice President of St Mary’s RSL sub-Branch, spoke about the impact of the archery program funded by the grants. “The funding was a valuable contribution and allowed us to organise our archery program, which was vital to the wellbeing of our local veterans,” Silveright explained. “We are averaging 20 participants each month, and we could not have started this popular activity without the support of the NSW Government. Thank you for providing us with the opportunity to help more veterans. The grant has allowed the sub-Branch to reach out to veterans across our area as well as partners and children of veterans. Our sub-Branch is grateful for the support, and we look forward to continuing this activity in the future on an ongoing basis.”
Mrs Mellanie Pirie, Assistant Principal at Figtree Heights Public School, also expressed gratitude for the funding that supported their Anzac Mural project. “Thank you to the NSW Government for funding to contribute to the creation of our school Anzac Mural,” Pirie stated. “It’s a beautiful mural and we very much appreciate your support which enabled us to create a central space for our school community to gather on important dates throughout the year to honour the service and sacrifice of our veterans.”
Conclusion
The doubling of funds for the NSW Veterans Community Grants program, coupled with the introduction of the Infrastructure and Equipment category, signifies a strengthened commitment to supporting and honoring the state’s veteran community. The program continues to play a crucial role in preserving military heritage, fostering community engagement, and providing practical support for the wellbeing of veterans and their families.
