The MPG Program contributes to community recognition of the service and sacrifice of First World War veterans. It provides funding assistance to establish grave markers for unmarked private graves of veterans who died of causes unrelated to their service.
About 331,800 Australians deployed during the First World War, and around 271,800 came home. Many were later buried without a headstone or funeral. The MPG Program helps communities make sure these veterans are remembered.
Community groups, ex-service organisations and individuals can apply for assistance with the cost of establishing a grave marker.
Before you apply
Before applying, read the relevant grant opportunity documentation and ensure you have the required supporting documents. This includes submitting a request to a Repatriation Commission delegate to determine whether the veteran’s cause of death was linked to war service. Information about the required documents and how to request this assessment is available on the DVA website.
For veterans whose death is accepted and linked to war service, the veteran will receive official commemoration from the Office of Australian War Graves. In that case, an MPG Program grant is not needed.
Getting supporting documents can take time. If you’re planning to apply, start gathering your paperwork now rather than leaving it to the final weeks of the round.
This year’s round
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Applications open on Friday 16 October 2026
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Applications close at 9:00pm AEDT, Friday 27 November 2026
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Each applicant can submit up to 2 applications
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Each application can request up to 10 grave markers.
Graves marked through the MPG Program are private graves. They are not war graves and do not form part of the Government’s official commemoration program.
The 2026-27 MPG Program application form can be found on the Department of Veterans’ Affairs website.
The 2026-27 MPG Program Grant Opportunity Guidelines are available on GrantConnect.