A Shorten Labor Government will give young Australians a once-in-a-lifetime chance to connect with our nation’s war history, establishing a placement program at the Sir John Monash Centre in Villers-Bretonneux.

Villers-Bretonneux is one of Australia’s most significant historical sites, with approximately 2400 Australian men losing their lives in the WWI battle to regain the town.

In recognition of the significance of the site, it was chosen as the location for the Sir John Monash Centre – and Labor wants to ensure that the next generation has the opportunity to immerse themselves in this history.

The next generation will be the custodians of the stories of Australia’s past on the battlefields – that’s why Labor is establishing the Western Front Fellowship Program.

The Program will offer eligible post-secondary students a four-month placement at the new Sir John Monash Centre, representing some of Australia’s most-important history to visitors.

Fellows in the program will work full-time, and will be supported financially through a stipend wage, receive rent assistance and be partially reimbursed for their flights.

They will have the opportunity to develop and refine their expertise in Australian military history, responsible for taking tours, giving presentations, and answering questions about Australia’s military history around the Western Front.

As we reflect on the service and sacrifice of our Diggers this Anzac Day, it is also an opportunity to think about how we ensure their stories are safeguarded for the future.

Labor’s investment in this program will help ensure the spirit of the Anzac and the memories of our Diggers are instilled in the next generation of Australians.

MONDAY, 23 APRIL 2018