Cash boost
The Returned and Services League’s project to build a one-stop shop for veterans in Perth’s CBD received a big boost yesterday.
The Returned and Services League’s project to build a one-stop shop for veterans in Perth’s CBD was boosted yesterday with a $4.6 million grant from the State Government.
The RSL was also pledged $5 million for the project from the Federal Coalition if it won the election.
The State Government grant, through Lotterywest, will go towards building and fitting out “Veterans’ Central”, which will house services for veterans and their families in one place, making it easier to get support in areas from medical assistance to advice on entitlements.
The revamped Anzac House, on St Georges Terrace, will also include office space for RSL staff and office-holders, a club area for members, a function room and cafe.
The grant was announced by Premier Mark McGowan, who visited the site yesterday to inspect work progress.
Mr McGowan, who will speak at the Anzac Day dawn service at Kings Park tomorrow, said the building grant was in addition to support for Anzac Day commemorations totalling more than $814,000.
“Anzac Day is a chance for us to reflect and acknowledge the dedication and sacrifice of all the brave men and women who have served their country,” he said. “Anzac House was an iconic institution for many in Perth and I look forward to seeing it up and running again once the new build is complete.”
RSLWA chief executive John McCourt said the project was expected to cost a total of $30 million. He said if expressions of interest from ex-service organisations were turned into occupancy of the new building it was about 80 per cent full already. An extra floor has been added to the design to cater for demand, taking it to seven floors.
RSL State president Peter Aspinall said the grant was a significant contribution towards the capital cost of the building.
“It allows us to not use our own funds for a capital expenditure but on the programs that veterans and their families need,” Mr Aspinall said.
He hoped the building would be completed and open by Anzac Day next year.
The Morrison Government said its $5 million pledge was part of $63.2 million for initiatives for veterans’ wellbeing centres across the country, delivering job opportunities and health and housing services.
A re-elected Coalition would also make it easier for veterans to access the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme and extend eligibility to the Defence Service Homes Insurance Scheme.
Originally published as Cash boost
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