TASMANIANS have an opportunity to voice their disapproval of funding cuts to the Australian War Memorial with the launch of a petition to federal Parliament.
Organised by Tasmanian Liberal Senator Stephen Parry, the petition has been circulated to the state’s RSL sub-branches and calls for sufficient funding to be restored to the national memorial to enable the daily sounding of the Last Post.
“Many in the ex-service and wider communities were disappointed to learn funding cuts had forced the directors of the Australian War Memorial to seek corporate sponsorship for such a solemn ceremony,’’ Senator Parry said.
“The Australian War Memorial commemorates all Australians who have fought for their country and particularly those who gave their lives for us.
“The daily sounding of the Last Post gives visitors to the memorial a chance to pause and reflect on their sacrifice in one of our most solemn and important traditions.
“What kind of country would dishonour its veteran community by cutting funding to its national war memorial and in doing so threaten one of its most valued ceremonies?
“There is a case for corporate sponsorship of the Australian War Memorial, but not for the sounding of the Last Post – that should remain entirely independent.’’
The petition can be signed at participating sub-branches and Senator Parry’s Burnie office, and can also be obtained by phoning 1300 760 788.
Senator Stephen Parry
