Funding boost for Saluting Their Service grants

Commemorative projects across the nation may benefit from a recent funding boost to the Saluting Their Service (STS) Commemorative Grants Program.

Crowds of people around a cenotaph

The Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester announced a further $10 million for the STS Program, bringing the total pool available to $14 million over the next four years. The grants are intended for projects and activities that acknowledge and commemorate those who have served Australia and its allies in wars, conflicts and peace operations.

Projects and activities relating to all wars, conflicts and peace operations are eligible. Given the conclusion of the Anzac Centenary Period, projects and activities that commemorate the Second World War and later wars, conflicts and peace operations are now encouraged. Apply now for projects and activities that commemorate the 75h Anniversary of Victory in the Pacific Day, on 15 August 2020.

Eligible projects include documentaries, and digital projects such as digital honour rolls and podcasts, as well as additions to existing war/peace memorials.

There are two categories of grants available under the expanded STS Program:

  1. Saluting Their Service – Community Grants (STS-CG): Grants up to a maximum of $10,000 are available for local, community-based projects and activities – an increase from $4,000 under the previous Program guidelines. 
  2. Saluting Their Service – Major Grants (STS-MG): Grants between $10,001 and $150,000 are available for major commemorative projects and activities that are significant from a national, state, territory and/or regional perspective.

The application process will remain the same. The Commemorative Grants Advisory Committee, chaired by the Repatriation Commissioner Don Spinks AM, will also continue to review all applications and make recommendations to the Minister.

The new guidelines came into effect on 7 November 2019. For more information about the new guidelines, or to apply for an STS Grant, visit the Community Grants Hub or GrantConnect websites.