Eight ex-service organisations (ESOs) and other veteran support groups in the Blair electorate will share in $175,112 in funding as part of the Federal Government's Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) grants program.

In the latest round of the program, the Veterans’ Advocacy Community of Practice Brisbane West Incorporated and Moreton District PAWS Management both received grants.

In addition, six local Returned and Services League (RSL) Sub Branches in the Moreton District have received funding in the 2021-22 round 23, namely the Ipswich, Ipswich Railway, Redbank, Redbank Plains, Esk and Toogoolawah Sub Branches.

Federal Member for Blair and Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Shayne Neumann said ESOs, community organisations and other local veteran groups play a crucial role in supporting the health and wellbeing of the defence and veteran communities. 

“BEST grants are an important way to assist ESOs provide pension welfare and advocacy services, and to support veterans and their families seeking compensation and other assistance,” he said.

“I congratulate and thank these organisations who continue to support veterans and their families in Ipswich, the Somerset Region and Karana Downs region, and I encourage veterans who may require assistance to reach out to them.”

“The BEST grants program funds a range of essential support measures from ESOs, advocates and welfare practitioners who continue to provide advice and assistance to the veteran and defence community. 

“We know the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) and claims processes can be complex and difficult to navigate, and many veterans and their families rely on these organisations to access the payments and other support they need,” Mr Neumann said.

For more information on BEST grants visit the DVA website.