Media Release

Chris Picton MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs

The Malinauskas Labor Government has provided a boost to commemorative initiatives across the state, with 21 community projects set to benefit from the 2025-26 Anzac Day Commemoration Fund.

An initial $100,000 fund allocation has been strengthened through additional funding, allowing a total of $138,059 to be distributed to community groups, schools, councils and ex-service organisations state-wide.

These grants ensure communities can continue to share stories of service, honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice and help younger South Australians understand the significance of Australia’s military history.

Regional communities will see historic sites restored including the Spalding WWI Memorial Grandstand and the original war memorial flagpole in Orroroo.

New remembrance spaces such as the memorial planned for Mallala Memorial Park will further strengthen community connection, and a dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flagpole at RSL Elizabeth Sub Branch will provide greater recognition of indigenous veterans and service at future events.

Youth and community driven projects also feature strongly this year. The Fulham Sea Scouts will create a permanent outdoor mosaic honouring service and sacrifice and students at St Columba College at Andrews Farm will benefit from a new permanent Defence service medal display.

In the state’s south-east, the Limestone Coast Veterans’ Hub will create a decorative rug, adorned with purple poppies and created by local community members. The rug will be worn by a donkey to parade in Anzac Day marches in Mount Gambier, sparking conversations and highlighting the important role animals have played in war service.

Together, these projects ensure the stories, values and sacrifices of our service personnel and those who support them continue to be remembered and shared with future generations.

Quotes attributable to Chris Picton
South Australians have a deep respect for our veterans and we’re proud to expand this year’s funding to support even more community-led initiatives across the state.

From regional towns restoring local memorials to schools and community groups developing new commemorative projects, this funding is bringing communities together.

The Anzac Day Commemoration Fund ensures these important stories are preserved and shared, helping younger generations understand the legacy of those who served.

View the full list of Anzac Day Commemoration Fund 2025-26 recipients.