Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor is encouraging local ex-service organisations to apply for grants that help them advocate for serving men and women and veterans.

“Applications are now open for the Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) grants and Grants-in-Aid for ex-service organisations,” Mr Taylor said.

“These grants help ex-service organisations provide vital advocacy services for current and former service men and women with their compensation claims and access to entitlements and services.

“More than $4 million in over 155 grants have been provided to ex-service organisations supporting veterans under these programs in 2017-18 and I encourage all eligible ex-service organisations in Hume to apply for this round of grant funding.”

Applications for both grant programs close on Thursday 19 April 2018 with payments to the successful applicants to be made before the end of 2018-19 financial year.

Organisations needing assistance with online lodgement are encouraged to seek help through the Community Grants Hub at www.communitygrants.gov.au.

Support is also available by phoning 1800 020 283 or via the email support@communitygrants.gov.au.

“If any organisations think they might need some guidance with their application they should call or email the Hub to ask for help,” Mr Taylor said.

“This will ensure any issues can be worked through in time for their application to be considered for funding.”

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs website www.dva.gov.au also has more information.

To receive an email alert when veteran and other community grants are open for applications on the Hub, visit www.communitygrants.gov.au.