The Andrews Labor Government will keep backing the jobs, support and projects Victoria’s veterans need, helping them find work and stay healthy after they leave the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
The Victorian Budget 2022/23 will provide $4 million in new support for Victoria’s veterans and their families as they transition back into civilian life.
The package includes $2.8 million to continue the Labor Government’s Veterans Capital Works Grant Program.
This program provides funding to organisations that serve the veteran community, helping them upgrade their facilities so veterans and their families can use modern, accessible and energy efficient community spaces.
The Labor Government is continuing to support veterans as they make the often-challenging shift from the ADF into civilian life by making it easier for them to find fulfilling work.
Funding of $400,000 will ensure the qualifications and skills veterans have acquired in the ADF can be recognised through Victorian TAFE providers – increasing opportunities for veterans to find the jobs they want to do.
This builds on the Government’s work to build awareness among private sector employers of the incredible skills, personal attributes and experience veterans bring to workplaces and communities across the state, including subsidies of up to $20,000 for businesses who employ a veteran or their family member for 12 months.
Last year’s Budget included $1.3 million over four years to build on the Public Sector Veterans Employment Program, which has helped more than 750 veterans find public sector jobs since 2017.
This year, a further $200,000 will be provided to RSL Active, a program that gives veterans opportunities to stay healthy by developing networks with each other and participating in a range of sports.
Veterans will also continue to benefit from free public transport to commemorative events and events held during Veterans’ Health Week, with a further $600,000 to go towards subsidising fares.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane
“Veterans have sacrificed so much for our country and now it’s our turn to support them – including helping them transition into civilian life and making it easier for them to find work.”
“Veterans leaving the Australian Defence Force are highly skilled, highly motivated and bring a wealth of experience to any workplace – so we’re making it easier for their qualifications and skills to be recognised across the board.”
“By investing in veterans’ organisations, we’re investing in the services that matter to veterans – something as simple as modern lifts or as vital as better access could make a huge difference.”