First Ministerial Statement on Veterans and Their Families

AUGUST 22, 2017: The Liberal National Government delivered on an election promise when the first Ministerial Statement on Veterans and Their Families was delivered to Parliament.The Statement, which can be requested through my office, outlines the work done to support 291,000 individuals, of which about half are veterans or currently serving members of the ADF. Delivered by Minister for Veteran’s Affairs Dan Tehan, the Statement was the first of its kind and reported on the support and services currently provided to our veterans and areas where that support needs to improve.It demonstrates our commitment to ensure we deliver what is required by our current and former military personnel.The Statement was part of the Coalition’s election policy, which aimed at giving veterans a greater voice and delivering a commitment for an independent Department of Veterans’ Affairs.While an extra $350 million for veterans and their families in this year’s budget, it’s important to acknowledge where we can do better.Transition and mental health were identified as areas where the Government had implemented reform or was looking to change processes.There’s a focus on improving the transition stage from serving in the military to civilian life, which has been identified as a critical period for ADF personnel. Just as Defence personnel prepare for deployment, they need to prepare for civilian life.The Government has also made the first serious investment in DVA in years by providing $166.6 million towards upgrading DVA’s IT and processes to make it a 21st Century Department with a 21st Century service culture.Anyone wanting a copy of the Ministerial Statement on Veterans and Their Families can request this by emailing George.Christensen.MP@aph.gov.au or phoning 4944 0662.