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Boost for RSLs, Scouts and Guides
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Boost for RSLs, Scouts and Guides

RSL Sub Branches and Scouts and Guides facilities will be upgraded by an elected Liberal Nationals Government.
 
The Nationals Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, said a Liberal Nationals Government will have a $2 million RSL Building Maintenance Fund and a $4m Scouts and Guides Infrastructure Fund, while also initiating a Scouts in Schools Program aimed at getting more people involved with the organisation.
 
Mr Bull said the RSL Building Maintenance Fund offered grants of up to $30,000 to support non-gaming RSLs and other ex-service organisations.
 
“Grants will be used to maintain RSL buildings or make minor improvements to ensure our veterans are supported. They can also be used to upgrade or maintain cenotaphs, community memorials or Avenues of Honour.”
 
“Local RSLs are the lifeblood of our communities and Liberal Nationals will always support those who protect us.
 
“Labor has been in power 15 of the last 19 years and has failed to adequately provide funding for RSLs leaving branches to fundraise themselves or let their buildings fall into disrepair – and I have seen this first-hand in Stratford for example, where Liberal Nationals have committed to upgrading the facilities,” he said.
 
Shadow Minister for Veterans Danny O’Brien said RSLs were more than just bricks and mortar.
 
“They are a haven for our returned service men and women and a hub for many communities,” Mr O’Brien said.
 
“But their bricks and mortar also need attention and small grants under our program will help make the local RSL more welcoming, functional and comfortable for our veterans.”
 
Mr Bull said the Scouts and Guides package would secure more opportunities for young people to share in the benefits of the organisation and ensure local clubs can offer programs in quality facilities, with grants provided on a matching basis.
 
“Scouts and Guides groups and RSL Sub Branches all make an invaluable contribution across East Gippsland, so it is important their work in our communities is supported,” Mr Bull said.
 
“The Scouts in Schools Program will see trainers employed at participating schools, leading activities during lunch breaks. Running the program through schools will remove the cost and time barriers which stop many willing children joining their local Scouts club.”
 
Caption: The Nationals Member for Gippsland East Tim Bull and Leader of the Opposition Matthew Guy have announced separate grants programs to upgrade facilities used by RSL Sub Branches and Scout and Guides groups.
 
Thursday, November 8, 2018