Media Release

Applications for the 2026-27 Anzac Day Commemoration Fund are now open, with up to $100,000 available to support projects that educate the community about Australia’s military history and honour the service and sacrifice of those who have served.

Administered by Veterans SA, the fund is open to eligible organisations, community groups, schools and local councils, for projects including memorials, local history initiatives, commemorative services and improvements to spaces used for reflection and remembrance.

Veterans SA Director Bianca Wheeler said the fund plays an important role in helping communities keep local stories of service visible and meaningful.

“These grants help communities bring local military history to life in ways that are accessible, engaging and lasting,” Ms Wheeler said.

“Whether it is through a memorial, a commemorative service or a school-based history program, each initiative helps ensure the service of veterans continues to be recognised and valued by future generations.”

In the last round, a one-off funding boost distributed $138,059 in grant funding to 21 recipients across the state, to support locally led projects that help communities connect with the state’s military history.

Mount Barker High School was among these recipients, receiving $2,910 to enhance its memorial path and recognise former students connected to Australia’s military history. The project included the installation of commemorative bricks honouring former students who served in World War I and World War II, as well as service sculptures and the restoration of archival displays.

The completed memorial now recognises former students Harold Mitchell, Johnny Hunt and Edward Keith Hender, giving current students and the wider community a dedicated place to learn about and reflect on their service.

Mount Barker High School Principal David Garrett said the grant has helped strengthen the school community’s connection to its history.

“The Veterans SA grant enabled us to turn extensive research by local historian Clare Dorey into a permanent memorial that connects today’s students with the service and sacrifice of former Mount Barker High School students,” said Principal Garrett.

“It ensures the contribution of men and women who served in our Defence Forces, such as Harold Mitchell, Edward Keith Hender and Johnny Hunt, will remain part of our school and community for generations to come.”

Applications for the 2026-27 Anzac Day Commemoration Fund grant round will close at 5.00 pm ACDT on Tuesday 1 December 2026.

For more information or to apply, visit the Veterans SA website.