The Department of Veterans’ Affairs is to distribute more than 660 grants across the nation for community projects commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Armistice that ended World War I.
In all, more than $5.3 million will be shared under the Armistice Centenary Grants Program.
Announcing the grants, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Darren Chester said he was impressed with the projects that had been approved for funding, and the innovative ways groups were commemorating the centenary.
“Successful projects and activities include the restoration of relics from the First World War, installation of commemorative plaques, the creation of displays and books, activities to honour the role women played during the war, as well as the installation of honour boards,” Mr Chester said.
“Of two projects that particularly resonated, one was the establishment of a dedicated learning centre at Redfield College in Dural, NSW to educate students about Australia’s role in the First World War.
“The other was the production of a short documentary showcasing students’ work and learning about the centenary of the Armistice at St Mary’s Primary School in Dandenong, Victoria.”
The Minister said the projects were central to the goals of the Anzac Centenary 2014–18, creating a lasting legacy for those in the community and educating the younger generation of Australians of the service and sacrifice of those who served during World War I.
Under the Armistice Centenary Grants Program, every Federal electorate had the opportunity to receive up to $50,000 for local projects that commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 11 November 1918 Armistice.
