An elected Coalition Government will deliver $250,000 in Federal investment for the Pro Patria Centre, supporting Veterans across the Riverina.
“Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Barnaby Joyce and I are so pleased to announce the Pro Patria Centre is set to receive $250,000 if the Coalition is elected to Government with a Nationals’ Member for Riverina,” Mr McCormack said.
“The Pro Patria Centre is an innovative multidisciplinary facility focused on supporting Veterans as well as their families.
“Located at the site of the former Carmelite Monastery in Wagga Wagga, the Pro Patria Centre offers Veteran-led innovative and holistic treatment for the mental and physical challenges some Veterans live with as a result of their service.
“I have been supportive of the centre from its conception and was proud to help it secure $1,263,344 in Federal Funding in 2023, which allowed it to expand its services with training and workshop facilities.
“The Pro Patria Centre has since sought additional funding to continue renovations and expand its services.
“I am proud to say The Nationals are listening to the needs of Veterans and will deliver the funding necessary for the Pro Patria Centre to continue its upgrades.
“Veterans have given so much to our country and it is only right they are supported when their service ceases.
“Wagga Wagga is a garrison city and the only regional city to host all three arms of the Defence Force.
“It is essential not just for the nation but also, crucially, for the Wagga Wagga community that we stand by and support our Veterans — that’s why I am so eager to deliver this funding if re-elected as the Member for Riverina with a Coalition Government.”
Pro Patria Centre Board Director Jacqui Van de Velde welcomed the commitment for funding as something which will improve the facility’s financial independence and sustainability.
“This funding will be directed towards upgrading critical power infrastructure, installing rooftop solar systems and completing the much-needed car park improvements at the Pro Patria Centre,” Ms Van de Velde said.
“These developments will not only improve the functionality of our facilities but will also support our journey toward sustainability and financial independence, ensuring we can continue to deliver vital services to the veteran community long into the future.”
Pro Patria Centre Board Director and Army Veteran Jason Frost acknowledged Mr McCormack’s ongoing commitment to the Pro Patria Centre.
“Michael McCormack has been a steadfast supporter of the Pro Patria Centre and the work we do for veterans and their families,” Mr Frost said.
“This election commitment is a testament to his recognition of the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women and the importance of providing them with the support they deserve.
“It will empower us to enhance our services and reduce operational costs, allowing us to focus even more on delivering meaningful programs for the veteran community.”
Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Barnaby Joyce, said that the Pro Patria Centre is designed by those who will use it.
“In the shadow of the stark findings of returned servicemen and women and in the light of our duty back to those who have signed on the dotted line to offer themselves for the service of all in our nation; this is a commendable endeavour,” Mr Joyce said.