Labor will commit an additional $3.7 million in funding for the Headstone Project to establish an ongoing grant program to mark the private graves of around 12,000 First World War veterans who died after the war and are resting in civilian cemeteries.

The Headstone Project ensures that veterans in previously unmarked graves have their final resting place marked appropriately in a way that recognises their service.

The unveiling of headstones brings together families and communities to commemorate those who have served our country.

The stories of the veterans are usually published, which helps to raise community awareness of their service.

The Headstone Project is a registered charity recognised by the Australian Charities and Not for Profit Commission.

It started in Tasmania, but has now expanded to other states in Australia.

The original pilot program saw the placement of 1,189 markers, and Labor wants see this important project continue to honour the memory of these World War One soldiers, sailors and airmen.

The Headstone Project has typically had to rely on grants and donations from the public to operate, so this funding commitment from Labor will allow the charity to carry on its outstanding work recognising our veterans of the First World War.

For more information on the Headstone Project and to make a donation you can visit https://www.theheadstoneproject.org/   

Quotes attributable to Shayne Neumann, Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel:

“I want to thank our Tasmanian Labor team for their strong advocacy for this project.”

Quotes attributable to Brian Mitchell, Member for Lyons:

“This funding will ensure the remaining First World War veterans lying in unmarked graves are rightly honoured with a headstone and plaque.”