MEDIA RELEASE

HONOURING VICTORIAN VETERANS  

The Allan Labor Government is honouring the service and sacrifice of veterans by investing in projects that preserve their legacy and strengthen their communities. 

Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman and Member for Monbulk Daniela De Martino today announced the successful recipients of two grant programs funding local government, ex-service organisations and community groups to upgrade their facilities and create welcoming, accessible places to commemorate and support Victoria’s veterans.  

The Veterans Capital Works 2024-25 grant program is providing 26 recipients with a share in more than $780,000 to upgrade or develop facilities for veterans and their families.  

Upwey Belgrave RSL Sub-Branch will use its grant to install solar panels. This is a long-awaited project to improve energy efficiency at the RSL and converting to solar energy will save them over 20% on their annual electricity costs.  

Emerald RSL Sub-Branch will be able to complete necessary Clubroom bathroom upgrades and improve disabled access with their grant. New tiles, steps and rails in the bathrooms as well as upgrades to the front entrance will provide greater disability access to the RSL.  

The Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour 2024-25 grant program is delivering 16 grants of up to $30,000, providing more than $320,000 to restore, preserve, and update war memorials, honour rolls, and avenues of honour.  

Gembrook RSL will use their grant to restore their War Memorial and its surrounds back to its former glory, addressing natural deterioration that has occurred over the years, and improving on past restoration efforts.  

For a complete list of grant recipients and for more information, visit vic.gov.au/veterans-capital-works or vic.gov.au/restoring-community-war-memorials. 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman 

“These projects are a powerful way we’re preserving the unforgettable legacy of our veterans by improving the places where their stories are honoured and remembered.” 

“By investing in community projects across the state, we’re paying tribute to our veterans and creating inclusive, welcoming spaces for future generations to gather and reflect on Victoria’s history.” 

Quote attributable to Member for Monbulk Daniela De Martino 

“By preserving memorials and upgrading veteran facilities, we’re helping future generations understand the legacy of service. These projects make sure the stories of our veterans live on in every community they helped shape.”