Funds available for local Centenary of ANZAC projects

On the eve of Remembrance Day, Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt, is urging local community groups to identify ways to commemorate the Centenary of Anzac in 2015 and to apply for Federal funding to assist them.

The Anzac Centenary Local Grants Program will aid and encourage communities across Australia to undertake their own Anzac Centenary projects that commemorate the service and sacrifice of Australian servicemen and women in the First World War, Mr Pitt said.

“The Hinkler electorate has up to $125,000 available for approved community projects that commemorate the First World War commitments made so that future generations will forever be reminded of those sacrifices,” Mr Pitt said.

An Anzac Centenary Grants Committee has been established to review and recommend local projects to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

“I really do urge Hinkler communities to consider ways we can best remember the First World War whether this is public commemorative events, new World War I memorials or honour boards, the preservation of First World War wartime and military memorabilia, or relevant school projects.”

Groups eligible to apply include community and ex-service organisations, schools and other educational institutions, museums and cultural institutions, local government authorities and other non-profit organisations.

“This funding is only available for projects relevant to the First World War so applications should carefully consider the guidelines available at www.anzaccentenary.gov.au when putting together an application but if they require any clarification or assistance, my office will be available to help,” Mr Pitt said.

Applications need to be submitted to the local committee by January 31, so they can be assessed then forwarded to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Funding will be available to June 30, 2014.

Further information can be obtained from www.anzaccentenary.gov.au, or free call 1800 026 185 or from the Member for Hinkler’s office on 4152 0744.

“World War I and the Anzac tradition is such a critically important part of our history that we need to commemorate it in ways that ensure we acknowledge and remember it for generations to come,” Mr Pitt said.

MEDIA CONTACT: Debbie Leis 07 4152 0744