Federal Member for Hinkler David Batt has welcomed the latest round of funding for local Veteran support services in Hervey Bay, Bundaberg and Howard.
The Government’s 2026-27 Building Excellence in Support and Training Grants (BEST) Program enables ex-service organisations (ESOs) to deliver free compensation and wellbeing advocacy services.
“This funding contributes directly to the work of advocates and support staff at our local RSL sub branches, Bundaberg Legacy and also Veterans of Australia,” Mr Batt said.
“Advocates provide veterans and family members of veterans with advice and assistance about claims, entitlements and services.”
Approved grants for Hinkler 2026/27:
- Bundaberg Legacy Inc: $153,973
- RSL of Australia (Queensland Branch) Bundaberg Sub Branch Inc: $111,035
- RSL Australia (Queensland Branch) Hervey Bay Sub- Branch Inc: $217,607
- RSL of Australia (Queensland Branch) Howard District Sub Branch Incorporated: $6,000
- Veterans of Australia Association Inc: $92,840
President of the Hervey Bay RSL Brad Gray said the support doesn’t fully fund local efforts, but it provides significant assistance.
“Every service that we provide costs us money, and expenses such as wages, electricity, fuel and registration keep rising,” Mr Gray said.
“The BEST Program helps us deliver professional advice and to help veterans through the work of both our paid and volunteer advocates.”
In response to Recommendation 99 of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, the BEST Program has increased and restructured the funding available:
- The total program funding has increased from $4.8 million in 2025-26 up to $58.6 million over 3 years from 2026-27 to 2028-29
- The grant agreements have been lengthened from 12 months to 3 years meaning successful applicants will receive funding through to 2028-29, with application rounds now opening every 3 years.
