THE Swan Hill and District Veterans Information Centre has received more than $11,000 to help with expenses as it transitions to a new generation of volunteers.
The ex-service organisation assists veterans and their families to obtain the entitlements and concessions they are entitled to, including pensions and welfare payments.
The centre’s chair, Harold Heslop, said the $11,531 funding from the Federal Government would go towards capital expenses and administration supplies.
It was among 127 ex-service organisations sharing in $4.3 million through the 2021 round of the Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) Program.
“It doesn’t cover everything we need, but anything is welcomed,” Mr Heslop said.
“Very little of the money will go towards salary, mainly for capital expenses like paper, ink for printers and any computer repairs.
“Trying to raise funds is tricky any time, let alone during COVID.”
Mr Heslop said the funding criteria had changed and now depended on caseload.
“Smaller places don’t get as many clients as metro areas, or near army bases.
“Our numbers have been diminishing.”
Mr Heslop said the Swan Hill centre looked after about 1300 people, with about 700 still actively serving.
“We look after a few younger people now … they need all the help they can get,” he said.
The centre has also had a new generation of people volunteer.
“We had two younger people come in last week wanting to volunteer to help, which is fantastic,” Mr Heslop said.
Member for Mallee Anne Webster said ex-service organisations in the Mallee played a “crucial” role in supporting local veterans and their families.
“This year has been tough for many and this funding demonstrates the commitment of the Liberal and Nationals Government to support our ex-service men and women and their families,” Dr Webster said.
“These additional funds will help with the costs of staff, equipment and services that directly support veterans and their families.”
