Federal Member for Paterson, Bob Baldwin last week announced that funding applications for initiatives that recognise the contribution of Australian servicemen and women who served our country during the Vietnam conflict are now open.

The Vietnam War Commemorative Grants have been established under the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Programme.  Grants between $4,000 and $20,000 are available for community-based projects and activities that directly commemorate any aspect of the Vietnam War, and which focus on camaraderie.

“I am honoured that as a Government we are able to provide support for community activities that acknowledge the service and sacrifice of Australia’s Vietnam veterans,” Mr Baldwin said.

“Following the tremendous success of the ANZAC Centenary Local Grants Program in bringing communities together to remember and commemorate our First World War veterans, the focus is moving to other conflicts in which Australians played a role during our century of service,” Mr Baldwin said.

“In August next year we will mark the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. This will be a major commemorative occasion for the Vietnam veteran community and our nation.

“These grants provide an opportunity for Vietnam veterans to be respectfully commemorated, recognise the hardships these servicemen and women faced and acknowledge their camaraderie.”

Applications for funding must be received by 5.00 pm AEDT on 31 October 2015. Programme guidelines and application forms are available on the Department of Veterans’ Affairs website www.dva.gov.au/consultation-and-grants/grants/grant-and-bursary-programs/saluting-their-service-commemorations.