The Victorian Government has announced more than $1.5 million in grants to support veterans and their families, aiming to both provide wellbeing services and preserve the memory of their service.
Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman revealed that funding through the Anzac Day Proceeds Fund and Victoria Remembers Grant Program will support 20 welfare and wellbeing initiatives and 27 commemorative and education‐based projects across the state.
“These grants back the local organisations doing incredible work for our veterans, and help ensure every Victorian has a deeper appreciation of the service and sacrifice that protects our way of life,” said Minister Suleyman.
Under the Anzac Day Proceeds Fund, over $1.1 million will be provided to organisations delivering veteran-support projects, with grants of up to $150,000 for statewide programs and up to $50,000 for local initiatives. Among the recipients is Vasey RSL Care’s STRIVE project, a 12-month programme designed to address veterans’ wellbeing, resilience and social connection at the V Centre in Ivanhoe, which has been adapted to assist at-risk and homeless veterans.
The Victoria Remembers Grant Program will provide more than $410,000 to fund 27 projects with grants of up to $30,000. One of the projects is a “Meet Your Veterans” photo exhibition by the Ballarat Veterans Assistance Centre, which will present personal stories of veterans from the Goldfields region and seek to foster public engagement with the veteran community.
Today’s announcement carries additional weight because of its timing. On the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour, Victorians pause to observe Remembrance Day. Premier Jacinta Allan said:
“On the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour—we pause.
To remember those we’ve lost, those who fought and those whose scars never healed.
To every Victorian who fought for the values we hold dearly—we pay our respects and we remember.
Lest we forget.”
Veteran community advocates emphasise that Remembrance Day offers more than ritual; it provides a moment to link past service with ongoing support. Chair of the Victorian Veterans Council, Greg Yorke AM CSC, stated:
“These grants not only provide practical support for veterans but also help strengthen the connection between veterans and their communities—reminding us of the service and sacrifice that has shaped our history and continues to inspire us today.”
The full list of this year’s grant recipients is available at vic.gov.au/anzac-day-proceeds-fund and vic.gov.au/victoria-remembers-grant-program.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
