Three Legacy WA veteran support programs will receive a total of $1.14 million from the West Australian government through the Anzac Day Trust Grants Program.
The funding will enable Legacy WA to deliver programs aimed at supporting veterans transitioning back into civilian life.
Legacy WA will receive $477,000 for its Living Independently program, which supports the families of veterans and helps those with similar shared experiences to build social connections.
A further grant of $300,000 has been allocated to Legacy WA's intake program which engages eligible families to understand their needs and provide assistance in managing emotional and financial instability.
Legacy WA's Busselton holiday camp will receive $363,786 through the Respite Support program, which gives current serving members, veterans and their families an opportunity for respite and a chance to connect.
The WA government has also invested $430,000 to develop a local assistance dogs program for veterans and first responders suffering PTSD. The funding will enable up to 20 specialist support dogs and their handlers to receive intensive training of between six to 12 months.
"The sacrifice and commitment of our veterans must be recognised well beyond the end of their service and we are focused on providing strong support for their transition back to civilian life,” says Premier Mark McGowan:
"We want Western Australia to be the best place in the nation for veterans to transition back into civilian life by making sure we provide support for employment opportunities, mental health programs and organisations such as Legacy WA."
Legacy WA CEO Matt Granger says “thousands” of Australian widows, families and children of veterans who have lost their lives or “given their health during or following service in conflicts from World War I to the current day” benefit from Legacy support.
“Legacy WA welcomes this funding and is grateful for the support of the state government in ensuring that Legacy can continue to make an impact on the lives of veterans’ families,” Mr Granger says.
Enquiries about Legacy veteran support programs can be made through Legacy WA’s Community Services Team on 08 9486 4900 or getsupport@legacywa.com.au