End of World War II commemorations grant opens in SA

August 15, 1945 was the date Japanese Emperor Hirohito announced a surrender, bringing the Second World War to an end.

The 80^th Anniversary of the end of World War II Grant Fund is open for eligible activities that honour and recognise WWII veterans, promote the identification or conservation of WWII heritage, and educate the community on South Australia's involvement in the war.

A total of $132,000 is available to be shared from among successful grant recipients.

Bodies eligible to apply for funds include registered not-for-profit community groups, ex-service organisations, local government authorities and schools. There is no minimum or maximum amount that organisations can apply for and projects may be fully or partially funded.

Applications for the new fund close on June 30, 2024.

Further information on how to apply is available at veteranssa.sa.gov.au/ww2-grant/.

Almost one million Australians, both men and women, served during WWII, with 39,000 giving their lives and many civilians contributing to the wider war effort.

This grant is separate to the ANZAC Day Commemoration Fund, which offers up to $100,000 in grants to deliver projects that help the veteran community, support commemorative services, and foster public understanding of the ANZAC spirit.

Golden Grove High School received support from the ANZAC Day Commemoration Fund to install a defence mural in 2022, paying tribute to those who have served and highlighting the school community's strong connection to defence families.

Principal Peter Kuss said the school has a strong connection to military service and believes it's important to teach our students about the ANZAC traditions and values.

"We aim to uphold these traditions in our words and actions every day, and our school's defence services mural further shows our respect for those who have gone before us," he said.