Grants up to $150,000 to commemorate Australia’s service personnel and families by funding projects that enhance understanding of Australia’s wartime heritage locally, regionally, and nationally.
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What is the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program?
The Saluting Their Service (STS) Commemorative Grants Program, managed by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, aims to honour and commemorate the service and sacrifices of Australia’s service personnel and their families. This grant funding supports projects that enrich the understanding of Australia’s wartime heritage across local, regional, and national levels.
There are two types of grants:
- Community Grants (STS-CG) for community-focused commemorative projects.
- Major Grants (STS-MG) for projects of broader significance that impact the nation, state, territory, or larger region.
Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program level of support
- Community Grants (STS-CG): Grants up to $10,000 are available
- Major Grants (STS-MG): Grants range from $10,001 to $150,000
Co-contribution is not explicitly required for either grant; however, securing additional funding can enhance an application’s competitiveness.
Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program important dates
- Applications Closing: 5 February 2025 at 9:00 pm AEDT
- Assessment Timeline: Notification of outcomes within 12 weeks of each batch closing date.
- Project Start Dates: Projects may commence from November 2024, with completion by June 2025.
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program objectives
The STS Program aims to:
- Foster appreciation and awareness of the experiences and contributions of Australia’s service personnel.
- Preserve and share knowledge about Australia’s wartime history
Projects and expenditure eligible for Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program support
Eligible activities include:
- Restoration or additions to existing war or peace memorials.
- Commemorative events marking significant anniversaries (e.g., anniversaries ending in ‘0’ or ‘5’).
- Creation of new memorials, digital projects, educational activities, or interactive experiences.
- Development of wartime publications and restoration of memorabilia.
Ineligible Expenditure
Grant funding cannot be used for:
- Events marking national commemorative days (e.g., Anzac Day, Remembrance Day).
- Sporting events or exclusively research-based projects without public sharing.
- Commemorative projects for individual service members or non-wartime events.
- General administrative costs, equipment purchase, and unrelated memorial repairs.
Other Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program support
Eligible applicants include:
- Local councils, state and territory government entities, incorporated associations, companies, Indigenous corporations, and other specified groups.
- Sole traders and unincorporated associations may apply only for Community Grants (up to $10,000).
Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program assessment criteria
Applicants must address each criterion thoroughly. The weighting for each criterion is even, with the following emphasis:
- Significance of the Project/Activity
Outline the project’s importance in commemorating Australian service personnel. Include how it will honour their contributions, and involve or benefit the community or target audience. - Delivery of the Project/Activity
Demonstrate readiness, providing evidence of financial planning and experience in similar projects, and include quotes for key project components. - Community Support and Stakeholder Engagement
Showcase letters of support, confirmed funding contributions, and community consultations to illustrate broad support and engagement.
How do I get the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program?
Applicants must:
- Read and understand the guidelines.
- Ensure eligibility for the funding. Applicants that do not meet all the eligibility criteria will not be considered.
- Demonstrate a strong alignment with the fund’s objectives.
- Provide complete information requirements.
Information to prepare for the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program application
Prepare and attach the following:
- Proof of eligibility and compliance documentation.
- Evidence of financial contributions or support letters.
- For digital projects, a sample of past work or content outline is recommended.
See the guidelines for more details of information requirements.
Applying for the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program
To apply, applicants should complete the application form on GrantConnect
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program resources
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