23
VETERAN AND COMMUNITY GRANTS APPLICATION GUIDELINES

and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Page 1: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

VETERAN AND COMMUNITY GRANTS

APPLICATION GUIDELINES

Page 2: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

CONTENTS1. OVERVIEW OF VETERAN & COMMUNITY GRANTS....................................................3

1.1 What is the Veteran & Community Grants Program?......................................................31.2 V&CG Aim and Objectives.................................................................................................31.3 Funding Rounds................................................................................................................. 31.4 Lodging an Application......................................................................................................3

2. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION............................................................................................42.1 Eligibility of Applicants......................................................................................................42.2 Eligible Items...................................................................................................................... 5

2.2.1 Equipment and Furnishings...................................................................................................52.2.2 Building Works.......................................................................................................................52.2.3 Vehicles.................................................................................................................................52.2.4 Bus Trips...............................................................................................................................62.2.5 Volunteer Expenses..............................................................................................................62.2.6 Meals.....................................................................................................................................62.2.7 Project Officer Expenses.......................................................................................................62.2.8 Replacement Items................................................................................................................62.2.9 Evaluation Costs....................................................................................................................6

2.3 Ineligible Items.................................................................................................................... 62.3.1 Projects or items not consistent with DVA’s Health Promotion Initiatives.............................62.3.2 Real Estate and Building Works............................................................................................62.3.3 Duplication of Services..........................................................................................................72.3.4 Existing Projects....................................................................................................................72.3.5 Expenses...............................................................................................................................72.3.6 Administration and Organisational Costs..............................................................................72.3.7 Development Costs...............................................................................................................72.3.8 Wages and Salaries..............................................................................................................82.3.9 Memberships and Fees.........................................................................................................82.3.10 Existing Debts and Shortfalls.................................................................................................82.3.11 High Risk Activities................................................................................................................82.3.12 Medical Focus.......................................................................................................................82.3.13 Other Exclusions...................................................................................................................8

3. APPLICATION PROCESS................................................................................................93.1 Assessment Of Applications.............................................................................................93.2 Funding Criteria.................................................................................................................. 9

3.2.1 Aim and Objectives................................................................................................................93.2.2 Target Group.........................................................................................................................93.2.3 Project Outcomes..................................................................................................................93.2.4 Need......................................................................................................................................93.2.5 Contribution.........................................................................................................................103.2.6 Value for Money..................................................................................................................10

3.3 Grant Application.............................................................................................................103.3.1 Target Group.......................................................................................................................103.3.2 Need....................................................................................................................................103.3.3 Project Plan.........................................................................................................................103.3.4 Budget Plan.........................................................................................................................103.3.5 Evaluation Plan....................................................................................................................113.3.6 Other Requirements............................................................................................................113.3.7 Conflict of Interest................................................................................................................11

3.4 What Happens Next..........................................................................................................123.4.1 Unsuccessful Applicants......................................................................................................123.4.2 Successful Applicants - Contractual Obligations.................................................................123.4.3 Goods And Services Tax (GST)..........................................................................................123.4.4 Accountability And Reporting..............................................................................................123.4.5 Project Launches.................................................................................................................123.4.6 Recognition Of Veteran And Community Grants.................................................................13

4. REVIEW & EVALUATION OF DVA GRANTS PROGRAMS.........................................13ATTACHMENT A - Funded Project Examples....................................................................14

Project Examples Funded Through Veteran and Community Grants..........................................14ATTACHMENT B - V&CG Documents.................................................................................15

Documents relating to Veteran and Community Grants...............................................................15Acquittal documents for approved grants......................................................................................15

ATTACHMENT C - Project Evaluation Requirements........................................................16Project Evaluation Requirements....................................................................................................16

2

Page 3: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

VETERAN AND COMMUNITY GRANTS

APPLICATION GUIDELINES

Please read these guidelines and contact DVA to discuss any project proposal before completing an Application for Veteran and Community Grants.If you need more information about Veteran and Community Grants or assistance with your application, you can phone the Department of Veterans’ Affairs for the cost of a local call on 133 254, or 1800 555 254 if you are outside a major city. Use a normal landline phone if you can. Mobile phone calls may cost you more.

1. OVERVIEW OF VETERAN & COMMUNITY GRANTS

1.1 What is the Veteran & Community Grants Program?The Veteran and Community Grants (V&CG) Program is administered by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). It funds projects that address identified needs in the veteran community.

These grants offer opportunities for both the veteran and wider community to participate in, and benefit from, projects that support healthy lifestyles, enhance quality of life and assist veterans and war widows/widowers to remain in their own homes as long as possible.

Projects are generally funded to a limit of $50,000.

1.2 V&CG Aim and ObjectivesAimV&CG aims to maintain and improve the independence and quality of life of members of the veteran community by providing financial assistance for activities, services and projects that support activities and services that sustain and/or enhance health and well-being.

ObjectivesThe objectives of the V&CG Program are to:

provide seeding funds to develop projects that will become sustainable and financially viable; and/or

provide funds for one off projects that have an ongoing benefit for members of the veteran community.

Increase opportunities for social activity and community participation and/or improve health behaviours and support healthy places.

1.3 Funding RoundsFunding rounds for V&CG are on an ongoing, rolling basis to allow flexibility for the ex-service community. Generally, funding rounds are held every two months or when sufficient applications are received. Applications can be submitted at any time and will be processed in the next funding round.

1.4 Lodging an ApplicationApplications for funding must be made on the current Application for Veteran and Community Grants form. This form is available in electronic format from the DVA website at www.dva.gov.au. The form can be saved to a computer, completed on screen and then printed for submission.

3

Page 4: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

A Guide to completing a Veteran and Community Grant Application is also available from the DVA website at www.dva.gov.au to assist applicants.

These forms can also be obtained from DVA Offices or by phoning:

133 254 (metropolitan callers)

1800 555 254 (non-metropolitan callers)

Calls from mobile phones and payphones may incur additional charges.

Applicants should contact their local Veterans Access Network VAN office to discuss any project proposal before completing an application for V&CG funding. DVA staff members are available to assist with the development of applications.

You must send your completed application and supporting documentation to:

Manager Grants AdministrationDepartment of Veterans’ AffairsGPO Box 9998ADELAIDE SA 5001

2. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

2.1 Eligibility of ApplicantsEligible ApplicantsTo be eligible for V&CG funding, an applicant must:

be an ex-service organisation, veteran representative group, community based organisation or private organisation; and

demonstrate the ability to contribute to the well-being of members of the veteran community through the proposed project.

Non-Eligible ApplicantsNon-eligible applicants for V&CG funding are:

individuals;

organisations that are seeking commercial gain from the project (either directly or indirectly) unless funding generated is utilised to further support activities for the veteran community in line with the V&CG Aim and Objectives (see clause 1.2 V&CG Aim and Objectives);

organisations that have any outstanding acquittals for any previous DVA funding;

organisations receiving Federal Government funding either directly or indirectly via a third party for the same purpose;

organisations contracted to DVA for the provision of Veterans’ Home Care or other services that are requesting funding for any activity related to that contract; and

organisations that are located outside of Australia.

Note that when determining eligibility, an organisation is assessed as a whole business entity, rather than broken down into different operations or different locations. For example, an organisation that receives Government subsidisation for the provision of aged care services may not receive a second source of Government

4

Page 5: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

funding for similar services (such as lifestyle and leisure services), regardless of its operation or location.

2.2 Eligible ItemsFunding will be considered for the following:

2.2.1 Equipment and FurnishingsFunding may be considered for equipment and furnishings that are integral to a project. All items must be justified and be relevant to the project.

2.2.2 Building WorksBuilding works may be considered if integral to the project, the project meets the Aim and Objectives of the V&CG Program (see clause 1.2 V&CG Aim and Objectives) and demonstrates value for money.

Organisations seeking V&CG funding for building works must: have council approval where relevant; specify who owns the premises (land and building); provide details of tenure if the building works apply to premises that are

not owned by the applicant (e.g. lease agreement, memorandum of understanding); and

provide building plans and detailed quotes.Examples of building works that may be funded include: upgrade of toilet facilities including disabled access; provision of disabled access to a building (e.g. ramps and access

doors); upgrade of kitchen facilities; repair of roofs; repair of floors; and provision of external shade areas (e.g. pergolas or verandas).Exclusions including the purchase of real estate and the construction/extension of buildings are detailed in 2.3.2 Real Estate and Building Works.

2.2.3 VehiclesFunding for vehicles will only be considered for passenger vehicles used for community transport projects (e.g. small buses). The following restrictions apply:

up to 75% of the purchase price of a passenger vehicle; and up to 75% of the purchase price of a passenger vehicle replacing one

which was previously funded by V&CG (for this purpose, the purchase price is the full price of the vehicle less the trade-in value).

Full funding will be considered for dealer or after market modifications or fitted accessories (such as wheelchair ramps). Justification must be provided for these items.

Replacement of a vehicle previously funded by V&CG, will be considered only after a reasonable period of time has elapsed and on receipt of sufficient justification for its replacement. Maximising resale value of the existing vehicle is not considered sufficient justification for funding of a replacement vehicle.

Funding will not be considered for:

on road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance;

5

Page 6: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes.Applicants must demonstrate that vehicles funded for community transport projects will be made available to other ex-service organisations within the applicant’s region.

2.2.4 Bus TripsFunding will only be considered for 12 month bus trip projects (a series of bus trips conducted over a 12 month period) once every two years.

2.2.5 Volunteer ExpensesMay only include expenses relating to training to ensure volunteers are appropriately qualified/accredited (e.g. Workplace Health and Safety training and First Aid training).

2.2.6 MealsFunding for meals will only be considered if intrinsic to cooking or nutrition projects or as part of travel allowance for a project officer.

2.2.7 Project Officer ExpensesFunding for a project officer will be considered for a 12 month period to establish a project and administer its associated Program of health and well being activities. Funding may include salary and travel allowance costs (e.g. mileage, meals and accommodation). Mileage is to be calculated using the current DVA rate of treatment travel. This information is available on DVA's website at www.dva.gov.au. For assistance please contact DVA as set out in section 1.4 Lodging an Application.

2.2.8 Replacement ItemsConsideration will be given to replacing items previously funded through V&CG after a reasonable period of time has elapsed and where sufficient justification for replacement is provided. Replacements will not be considered purely to maximise trade-in values.

2.2.9 Evaluation CostsMay be included for a professional evaluation at the completion of a project which has been funded for more than $30,000. Such costs must not exceed 10% of the grant amount sought through V&CG, to a maximum of $5,000. A detailed quote must be provided with the application.

2.3 Ineligible ItemsFunding will not be considered for the following:

2.3.1 Projects or items not consistent with DVA’s Health Promotion Initiatives

Funding for projects that support activities that are not consistent with DVA’s Health Promotion initiatives will not be considered (e.g. the upgrade and/or refurbishment of bar and gaming facilities, establishment of outdoor smoking facilities etc).

2.3.2 Real Estate and Building WorksThe purchase or lease of land; the purchase, lease or construction/extension of buildings, and/or the purchase of raw materials for the purpose of constructing and/or extending buildings.

Works that are cosmetic in nature, and/or landscaping.

6

Page 7: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

Items that would be covered under insurance (including emergency make safe work and the undertaking of minor and major repair works) and any preventative on-going building maintenance.

2.3.3 Duplication of ServicesProjects that duplicate existing services which are readily accessible by and adequate for the target group.

Transport costs that duplicate existing services provided by Commonwealth or State Government (e.g. transport to medical appointments for eligible veterans or duplication of Health and Community Care (HACC) funded services).

Employment and training Programs which are the core responsibility of Commonwealth and State Government.

Any project that duplicates an organisation’s core business.

2.3.4 Existing ProjectsProjects that have already commenced. However funding will be considered for a significant new direction or enhancement of an existing project.

2.3.5 ExpensesAccommodation costs (also refer to 2.2.7 Project Officer Expenses).

Transportation costs such as fuel expenses solely for entertainment purposes.

Meals and/or refreshments costs (refer to 2.2.6 Meals and 2.2.7 Project Officer Expenses).

Costs associated with the attendance at meetings (including transport and accommodation).

2.3.6 Administration and Organisational CostsAn organisation’s ongoing business, administration or day-to-day running costs, including:

capital equipment (e.g. computers, office furniture, machinery, tools etc);

rainwater tanks and solar systems (where the sole purpose is to reduce the cost of utilities);

vehicles (used for business or administration purposes);

fundraising activities;

consumables;

maintenance and repairs;

service charges (including additional warranties, service agreements and maintenance); and

services that are considered to be part of the ‘core’ business of an organisation.

However, some administrative costs may be considered if directly and exclusively associated with the establishment of the project.

2.3.7 Development CostsCosts associated with development of an application (e.g. council fees or the cost of a survey to establish the need for a project).

2.3.8 Wages and SalariesOngoing wages or salary payments (refer to 2.2.7 Project Officer Expenses).

7

Page 8: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

2.3.9 Memberships and FeesMemberships and fees (e.g. physical fitness centre memberships, club memberships, entrance fees).

2.3.10 Existing Debts and ShortfallsReimbursement of expenses incurred by the organisation prior to grant funds being approved.

2.3.11 High Risk ActivitiesHigh risk activities such as gym set-ups which do not satisfy appropriate duty of care provisions and without the consideration of specified insurance and suitably qualified instructors (appropriate to the project).

2.3.12 Medical FocusProjects that have a research, clinical or medical focus or that encompass medical referral; the purchase of vehicles which will be used for projects which are related to activities of a medical nature, and the purchase of medical equipment (excluding defibrillators, first aid kits and first aid training).

2.3.13 Other ExclusionsEquipment and services that are not supported by a Program of activities and services (also refer to 1.2 V&CG Aim & Objectives).

Equipment or activities related to the provision of advocacy or welfare services (which may be covered under DVA’s Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) Grant Program).

Equipment or activities related to projects that have a commemoration focus (which may be covered under DVA’s Saluting Their Service (STS) Grants Program).

Reunions, either commemorative or organisational, and transport and other costs associated with reunions.

One-off events such as Expos and all associated costs.

Performances such as theatrical, media, artistic, film productions, public performances and all associated costs.

Upgrade of properties or facilities utilised for commercial rent, including villas, units, hostels, boarding rooms and holiday homes.

8

Page 9: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

3. APPLICATION PROCESS

3.1 Assessment Of ApplicationsApplications are assessed on merit and a comparative analysis made of all applications to establish priority for funding.

All applications are assessed by the Department and recommendations are forwarded to the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs.

Final decisions on all applications are at the discretion of the Minister.

Applications may be deferred until a subsequent funding round if they need further development and/or more information is required to enable an assessment to be made.

Applications in excess of available grant funds may result in some applications not being approved, being approved for a reduced amount or being deferred to a subsequent funding round even though they meet the eligibility requirements.

3.2 Funding CriteriaThe following criteria are examined when assessing applications:

3.2.1 Aim and ObjectivesThe project must meet the Aim and Objectives of the V&CG Program (see clause 1.2 V&CG Aim and Objectives).

3.2.2 Target GroupThe primary target group for projects must be the veteran community, that is, all veterans, their widows/widowers, their spouses, partners, carers and dependants and other members of the ex-service community.

Projects may also benefit the wider community as a secondary target group.

3.2.3 Project OutcomesThe project must provide one or more of the following outcomes for the veteran community:

promote and enhance healthy lifestyles, particularly physical activity and mental wellbeing;

support quality independent living at home; encourage involvement in community activities; reduce social isolation; encourage supportive and safe communities; increase access to community services; address gaps in local services; support carers; Nutrition; Social connectedness; and Mental Wellness.3.2.4 NeedProjects must address an identified need within the veteran community supported by a needs assessment from the applicant.

9

Page 10: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

3.2.5 Contribution Organisations are expected to contribute towards the project. This can

be financial or in-kind (such as the provision of volunteer labour costs). Project participants should be encouraged to contribute towards the

cost of the project (such as the cost of meals, gold coin donation per activity etc). However, an inability to pay should not exclude people from participating.

3.2.6 Value for MoneyGrant funds requested must be proportional to the benefits provided and the number of veteran community members targeted by the project.

3.3 Grant ApplicationApplications for funding must be made on the form available from the DVA website. Applicants must address the following points in their application for V&CG funding:

3.3.1 Target GroupApplications must identify the target group in the veteran community that is the subject of the project. Provide evidence that the target group:

is the focus of the project; has been consulted about and is involved in the project; is committed to actively participating in the project in significant numbers;

and has expressed support for the project.Provide details of the relationship of the applicant to the target group.

3.3.2 NeedProjects must address an identified need within the veteran community and include:

details of the Needs Analysis (Assessment) conducted to establish that there is an existing need;

details of how the project will meet the need; and details of consultation with stakeholders.3.3.3 Project PlanProvide a Project Plan which details the activities and services that will be facilitated. The Project Plan should include:

details of the proposed Program of activities and services including frequency and duration (this refers to the activities that will be supported by the project, or the items or services to be purchased with grant funds);

timeframes and how the project will be implemented, facilitated, and monitored;

details of the benefits/outcomes that the target group will derive from the project; and

details of how the project will meet any of the V&CG Project Outcomes.3.3.4 Budget PlanProvide a Budget Plan with details of the items/services to be purchased or works to be undertaken for the project. The Budget Plan must be reasonably costed and include:

10

Page 11: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

total cost of the project; amount of grant funds requested; funds committed to the project by the applicant (this contribution can be

financial or in-kind); funds committed to the project from other sources, such as donations,

funding from other stakeholders, funding from other grant sources; and one quotation for each item requested.Note that quotations must include GST and be sufficiently formal to clearly identify the proposed supplier and the items requested.

3.3.5 Evaluation PlanProvide an Evaluation Plan appropriate to the complexity of the project and the level of funding requested. This must include details of:

measures that will be taken to gather information to evaluate the project;

criteria that will be used to measure the success of the project; and how information gathered for evaluation will be used to enhance/direct

the project.Note that: the Evaluation Plan is intrinsic to the application and will form the basis

of the Project Evaluation that must be provided as part of the acquittal of the grant at the conclusion of the project; and

applications for projects over $10,000 must include a more comprehensive Evaluation Plan.

3.3.6 Other RequirementsIn addressing the above points, applications must provide a level of detail that is in proportion to the amount of funds requested and the complexity of the project. Organisations applying for funding must demonstrate, where applicable:

a capacity to provide infrastructure, administrative and operating costs; an ability to support the project beyond the grant period; and the availability of volunteer support for the ongoing viability of the

project.3.3.7 Conflict of InterestApplicants must identify, in their application, any potential or actual conflicts of interest they believe will or may arise from submitting their application. This should address their responsibilities to the Australian Government and other parties in the course of undertaking the proposed project or activity.

A conflict of interest can arise when an applicant’s integrity, objectivity or fairness in performing the project or activity is at risk due to a pecuniary interest of a person or organisation associated with the applicant or a conflicting business arrangement.

Applicants must specify in their applications how any actual or perceived conflict of interest will be addressed and monitored to ensure it does not compromise the desired outcomes.

11

Page 12: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

DVA reserves the right to assess the potential impact of the conflict or perceived conflict and what plans, if any, are proposed to address the conflict of interest in relation to the application for funding.

DVA may reject an application if DVA is not satisfied that there are arrangements in place to appropriately address / manage a perceived or actual conflict of interest.

DVA also has mechanisms in place for identifying and managing potential or actual conflicts of interest such as requiring individuals involved in assessing applications to sign conflict of interest declarations prior to undertaking the assessment of applications.

3.4 What Happens NextAll applicants will be advised of the outcome of their application in writing.

3.4.1 Unsuccessful ApplicantsIf applicants are unsuccessful they will be advised of the reasons for the decision and may discuss this further with DVA.

3.4.2 Successful Applicants - Contractual ObligationsSuccessful applicants will be required to enter into an agreement accepting the grant and associated terms and conditions (Grant Agreement). The Grant Agreement is legally binding. It contains obligations which include agreed project outcomes and timeframes, liability and insurance conditions, reporting and evaluation requirements. Grant Agreements will be for a 12 month period.

Grant funds must be spent in accordance with the conditions of the Grant Agreement.

Any proposed change to the project or expenditure of grant funds must be requested in writing to DVA.

All unspent grant funds must be returned to DVA at the end of the project period.

3.4.3 Goods And Services Tax (GST)Grants made by DVA under the VCG Program are financial assistance payments. As such, V&CG grants are provided on a GST exclusive basis and there is no GST liability arising for successful applicants in receipt of a V&CG grant because there is no taxable supply made by the Grantee to DVA. This means that, if your organisation is registered for GST, your organisation does not need to remit any GST to the Australian Tax Office (ATO) as the V&CG grant you receive from DVA is not consideration for a taxable supply.

If you have any queries in relation to the transactions you enter into with third parties as a result of a grant received under the V&CG Program, you may wish to speak with the ATO or your financial advisor.

3.4.4 Accountability And ReportingThe reporting and acquittal requirements are specified in the Grant Agreement.

Acquittal documentation may include an Audit Certificate and a Project Evaluation. These documents are due one month after the end of the grant period as detailed in the Grant Agreement (refer to Attachment B - Documents Relating to Veteran and Community Grants).

12

Page 13: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

3.4.5 Project LaunchesThe relevant Member of Parliament in consultation with the successful organisation may choose to have a formal presentation of the grant or a project launch.

A ‘presentation cheque’ may be requested from the DVA Adelaide Office for the ceremony. However, adequate notice must be provided.

3.4.6 Recognition Of Veteran And Community GrantsSuccessful applicants will appropriately acknowledge the Australian Government’s financial contribution to the project or activity, e.g. through recognition of the grant by a statement placed on the successful applicant’s website or in its newsletter.

Prior written approval must be obtained before using any of the Department’s Coat of Arms, branding or trade marks.

Further information is outlined in the Guide to completing a Veteran and Community Grants Application.

Organisations that are successful in obtaining V&CG funding must agree to the disclosure of their name and details of the project, as required under Commonwealth Government grant publication requirements. These details will be on the DVA website for at least two years, in media releases, letters announcing the grant to Members of the Parliament of Australia, the Australian National Audit Office and as required to meet Government accountability requirements.

4. REVIEW & EVALUATION OF DVA GRANTS PROGRAMS

Grants Programs administered by DVA, including V&CG, are reviewed on a regular basis to meet both Departmental and audit requirements.

These guidelines may be amended by the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs at any time to reflect changes in policy and Government priorities.

An evaluation of projects that receive V&CG funding will be conducted on a regular basis to ensure that the V&CG Scheme is meeting identified veteran needs and that DVA is obtaining value for money. DVA may require further details from a grant recipient as part of this process.

13

Page 14: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

ATTACHMENT A - Funded Project Examples

Project Examples Funded Through Veteran and Community Grants

Project Grant funds can assist to:

Volunteer lawn mowing service Purchase a trailer, mowing equipment and gardening tools appropriate to the project.

Strength training classes Employ a qualified fitness trainer and purchase equipment appropriate to the project.

Cooking and nutrition classes Purchase required ingredients and utensils.

Communicating by newsletter Purchase a computer, printer and photocopier.

Upgrade of facilities (where appropriate to the project and not as part of normal on-going maintenance and/or refurbishment)

Construct an access ramp, toilets for the disabled, kitchen upgrades, purchase heating and cooling.

Day Clubs Purchase equipment e.g. large screen TVs, videos, audio equipment, furniture and first aid training for volunteers.

Craft groups & wood workshops Purchase equipment and cover volunteer expenses appropriate to the project.

Men’s Sheds Purchase equipment and furniture for woodworking, metalworking and social activities.

Community transport Purchase a passenger carrying vehicle (e.g. small bus).

Socialising and addressing social isolation

Fund a series of bus trips over a 12 month period with a view of encouraging participation by active members of the veteran community and in particular those who are less active and disconnected from the community

14

Page 15: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

ATTACHMENT B - V&CG Documents

Documents relating to Veteran and Community Grants Application form for Veteran and Community Grants;

Guide to completing a Veteran and Community Grants Application;

Grant Agreement (for approved Veteran and Community Grants).

Acquittal documents for approved grants Grant Acquittal Form;

Project Evaluation Report (refer to Attachment C); and

Audit Certificate Requirements (for grants over $100,000). Note that the Audit Certificate must relate only to the expenditure of the grant and must be prepared by an independent qualified auditor. An organisation’s Audit Certificate of its annual financial affairs is insufficient.

15

Page 16: and... · Web viewon road costs such as dealer delivery fees, registration and insurance; stamp duty; and vehicles that will be used for business or administrative purposes. Applicants

V&CG Grants Application Guidelines

ATTACHMENT C - Project Evaluation Requirements

Project Evaluation RequirementsAn evaluation of the project must be undertaken at the completion of the grant period as detailed in the Grant Agreement.

Where applicable, the Project Evaluation must detail the following:

Introduction – outline the project, its purpose and overall achievements.

People assisted (Target Group) – provide details about the people assisted by the project. This could include families, individuals, gender, age groups, geographic location, type and level of needs/issues,

Socio-economic status.

Number of people assisted by the project.

Assistance provided – describe what was provided for the Target Group in terms of Programs, activities, other actions or strategies. This could include:

o Assistance to meet general and basic needs.

o Group Programs, courses, activities and training.

o Improving resources/facilities/equipment or other initiatives.

Outcomes achieved by Target Group – describe what the Target Group achieved through participation in the project. Examples of outcomes could include:

o Improvement in skills, knowledge, self esteem, motivation, social contacts/networks, confidence, empowerment, community participation, quality of life and personal development.

o Enhanced healthy lifestyles, particularly physical activity and mental well-being.

o Reduction in social and geographic isolation.

Other achievements – describe other achievements of the project. Examples could include:

o Improvement in facilities or services.

o New Programs or services established.

o Existing Programs expanded or enhanced.

o Recruitment and training of volunteers to improve or expand a Program or service.

Any other comments or information relevant to the project (such as newspaper articles, media releases etc).

Note that preference is given to those supporting agencies and/or Ex-service organisations that are taking measures to improve the health and well-being of their members of the veteran community.

16