The Andrews Labor Government is improving support for veterans and their families, and ensuring their service and sacrifices are remembered by future generations.

The Victorian Budget 2021/22 will deliver $6 million to upgrade the Shrine of Remembrance – our iconic landmark dedicated to honoring our veterans and their service.

Opened in 1934, this investment will help secure the long‑term future of the Shrine so future generations of Victorians can continue to learn more about our nation’s wartime history.

Funding will also go towards improving accessibility at the Shrine, including ramps and additional lighting, making sure veterans and the wider community of all abilities can visit this sacred space.

This Budget also recognises the considerable contributions our veterans can make to our state.

Funding of $1.3 million will continue the Public Sector Veterans Employment Strategy, supporting veterans to use their considerable skills in Victoria’s public sector workforce and helps them transition back into civilian life.

Since its launch in 2017, the strategy has helped more than 600 veterans find work in a broad range of roles across the Victorian public sector – whether it be as Victoria Police officers, Corrections and Youth Justice workers and a variety of positions across public sector departments and agencies.

This builds on our dedicated efforts to ensure veterans are finding new opportunity as part of our Big Build, working on our massive road and rail projects across Victoria.

The Budget also includes $950,000 to support our calendar of commemorations, anniversaries and events, including an ex‑service organisation summit on veterans’ welfare, which will ensure we continue to honour the brave Victorians who have served our nation.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane

“Veterans have served our country and it’s our turn to support them – including helping them transition into their civilian life.”

“Men and women leaving the Australian Defence Force are highly skilled, highly motivated and bring a wealth of experience to any workplace. We’re channelling that expertise, by hiring more veterans in our state’s workforce.”

“Delivering vital upgrades of the Shrine of Remembrance will ensure its future for many years to come and mean all Victorians are able to honour those who have served.”