Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said veterans and their families in the Manly-Lota area would benefit from Australian Government grant funding for a local project.

Mr Vasta said the Returned and Services League of Australia’s Manly-Lota Sub-Branch had been awarded $37,800 to install air-conditioning at its community hall in Manly under the Veteran and Community Grants program.

“By providing funding to local organisations for special projects, the Government is helping improve the lives of veterans, their families and local communities,” Mr Vasta said.

“The dedication and hard work of organisations such as Manly-Lota RSL ensure veterans and their families receive services, support and opportunities to play a bigger role in our community.
  
“Manly-Lota RSL has a well-deserved reputation for its commitment to improving the lives of those who have served our nation and these grants are another way we honour the service and sacrifice of the men and women who serve in defence of our country.”

President of Manly-Lota RSL, Doug Jones welcomed the announcement.

“Air-conditioning for the hall will not only benefit the older ex-diggers, but also other citizens who use the hall. There are 27 community organisations that currently use the hall,” Mr Jones said.

“Temperatures can get quite hot inside the hall, so this will make it more comfortable for the people inside particularly the elderly.”

Ex-service and community organisations, veteran groups and private organisations that contribute to the health and welfare of the veteran community are eligible to apply for funding through the DVA Veteran and Community Grants program.

For more information about the Veteran and Community Grants program or to apply, visit the DVA website www.dva.gov.au/consultation-and-grants/grants or contact your nearest DVA office on 133 254 or 1800 555 254 from regional Australia.