Image: Veterans SA
More than 20 community groups, schools, councils and ex-service organisations across South Australia will share in a funding boost for military history and commemorative projects, with the State Government expanding this year’s Anzac Day Commemoration Fund to distribute $138,059.
Initially allocated $100,000, the 2025–26 fund has been increased to allow support for 21 projects across the state, backing everything from regional memorial restorations and new remembrance spaces to youth-led education initiatives and community artworks.
Among the largest grants awarded were $18,450 to the Spalding War Memorial Committee, $17,500 to the Macclesfield RSL Sub-Branch for mural panels at the Macclesfield ANZAC Memorial Gardens, and $15,510 to the 413 Army Cadet Unit Pipes & Drums to replace 50 Scottish dress uniform sets used in ceremonial duties.
The funding will help preserve sites of local significance in regional communities, including the restoration of the World War I Memorial Grandstand in Spalding and the original war memorial flagpole in Orroroo. In Mallala, a new memorial is planned for Memorial Park, broadening recognition beyond the town’s existing World War I tribute.
A number of projects are also focused on making sure younger South Australians can better connect with stories of service. St Columba College at Andrews Farm will create a permanent display of replica ADF service medals and interpretive signage, while Mount Barker High School will expand its memorial path with commemorative bricks, sculptures and restored archival displays. Fulham Sea Scouts will create a permanent outdoor mosaic honouring Australian service members.
Other grants will help communities improve local commemorative events and facilities. Two Wells will enhance its Dawn Service with new speakers, solar lighting and path lighting, while Hilton RSL will install in-house audio equipment to support veteran talks for schools and the public. At RSL Elizabeth, a new flagpole will allow the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags to be flown alongside existing flags during key commemorations, acknowledging Indigenous veterans and service.
Some of the most distinctive projects are also among the smallest in dollar value. In the state’s south-east, the Limestone Coast Veterans Hub will create a decorative purple poppy rug for a donkey to wear during Anzac Day marches in Mount Gambier, drawing attention to the role animals have played in war service. Legacy Club of South Australia & Broken Hill will launch The Centenary Podcast as part of its lead-up to its 100-year anniversary in 2028, capturing stories from beneficiaries and descendants.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Chris Picton said the expanded funding would help communities honour service in meaningful and lasting ways.
“South Australians have a deep respect for our veterans and we’re proud to expand this year’s funding to support even more community-led initiatives across the state,” he said.
“From regional towns restoring local memorials to schools and community groups developing new commemorative projects, this funding is bringing communities together.
“The Anzac Day Commemoration Fund ensures these important stories are preserved and shared, helping younger generations understand the legacy of those who served.”
For more information about the Anzac Day Commemoration funds, visit https://veteranssa.sa.gov.au.
