Media Release

A diverse range of projects supporting veterans and commemorative services across South Australia received more than $60,000 in funding through 2025-26 Veterans SA grant programs.

Ten projects received funding through the Veterans SA Capacity Building Grant Fund, with $50,015 allocated to help veteran support organisations improve their skills, technology, governance and services.

A further $12,200 has been awarded to nine projects through the Veterans SA Commemorative Services Grant Fund to support commemorative services and events across the state.

Among the recipients is Australian Partners of Defence (APOD) Community Ltd, which received $7,000 to support a board member to complete the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ (AICD) Company Directors Course, uplifting the organisation’s governance and leadership skills.

APOD grant recipient Wes Woulleman said strong governance was essential to ensuring community organisations could continue delivering sustainable support.

“There are so many organisations doing great work supporting veterans and their families, but strong governance is what helps that support remain sustainable,” Mr Woulleman said.

“The Veterans SA grant gave me the opportunity to complete the AICD Company Directors Course and strengthen the governance capability I bring to APOD and the wider veteran community.”

“I’d absolutely encourage other eligible organisations to apply and invest in building their capability for the future,” he said.

RSL Tumby Bay received $4,965 to improve digital access for its members, while the Vietnam Veterans Federation SA Branch received $6,487 to upgrade its IT equipment.

Veterans SA Director Bianca Wheeler said the grants will strengthen support for veterans and their families across South Australia.

“Veteran and ex-service organisations play an important role in supporting veterans and their families across South Australia,” Ms Wheeler said.

“This funding will help organisations strengthen their programs and services and bring communities together to recognise and remember the service and sacrifice of those who have served our nation.”

Commemorative Services Grant recipients include the Air Force Association SA division, which received $2,000 for its Bomber Command Commemorative Service, and the Vietnam Veterans Federation SA Branch, which received $1,100 for a service commemorating the Battle of Coral and Balmoral.

Applications are now open for the 2026-27 Veterans SA Capacity Building Grant Fund and Commemorative Services Grant Fund.

Eligible non-government and not-for-profit organisations can apply for up to $5,000 through the Capacity Building Grant Fund and up to $2,000 through the Commemorative Services Grant Fund.

Applications close at 5.00 pm ACST on Friday 30 April 2027.

For more information or to apply, visit: www.veteranssa.sa.gov.au/grants.

Photo: Wes Woulleman, APOD, 2025-26 Veterans SA Capacity Building Grant recipient.