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A $1.3 million funding investment to veteran services in WA is set to boost ex-serving organisations.
The Western Australian government has awarded over $1.3 million to services and support programs and organisations for veterans through the Anzac Day Trust Grant.
“Western Australia’s veterans and their families have made tremendous contributions to our community, and we are committed to supporting their wellbeing and future,” Defence Industry Minister Paul Papalia said.
The funding aims to support existing ex-service organisations to continue delivering their services to the retired servicemen and women of WA in employment, respite and mental health programs.
The Returned and Services League WA and Working Spirit were awarded over $500,000 to maintain their partnership with the WA government in the upkeep and continued rollout of the Veteran Employment Program, which is now in its third year. The program offers a range of employment-based services, such as providing career advice, translating military skills into workplace skills, supporting CV and cover letter writing, and providing access to qualifications programs and employers.
Legacy WA received $400,000 to support a range of initiatives, including the Living Independently Program and Respite Program. The funding will also support the sustainment of the Legacy Busselton Camp, which is a respite, retreat camp aiming to provide an opportunity for current and ex-serving Australian Defence Force members and their families to rest and relax. Funding will additionally aid in the support programs Legacy WA offers for the partners of fallen soldiers.
“We want to give our ex-service people every opportunity to thrive, whether it’s through employment support, resilience programs or vital community initiatives,” Minister Papalia said.
Nearly $300,000 was awarded to 10 other organisations to target effective delivery of mental health and wellbeing support services. These include organisations such as Buddy Up Australia, which aims to support incarcerated veterans, and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans & Services Association, which offers a range of support services for Indigenous veterans.
A grant of $20,000 was dedicated to fund the 2026 veteran and ADF commemoration events.