COUNSELLING ACCESS FOR ALL CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS

The Australian Government has decided to continue providing free counselling services to all sons and daughters of Australia’s Vietnam veterans regardless of their age, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Bruce Billson, announced today at the annual conference of the South Australian RSL in Adelaide.

"Comprehensive Government-funded counselling services are usually available to sons and daughters of Vietnam veterans who are 35 years or younger through the Vietnam Veterans’ Counselling Service. However, in 2001, arrangements were put in place to enable those aged 36 and over to access this service up to 30 June 2006," Mr Billson said

"Following a review by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs of the effectiveness of counselling to those in the older age bracket, the Australian Government has decided it is vital this group of Vietnam veterans’ children continues to have access to Government-funded counselling," he said.

Approximately 17 per cent of the sons and daughters who have accessed counselling through VVCS are aged 36 years or over. Those using this service have been found to be vulnerable to life problems that arise from their parents’ service.

"The mental impact of wartime service often extends to the partners, widows, families and children of veterans, and today’s announcement demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring Government services take this into account," Mr Billson said.

The Minister told the South Australian RSL that commemorations this year of the 40th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan on 18 August had provided the opportunity to enhance recognition of the service and sacrifice of all Australians who served during the Vietnam War.

"The Australian Government committed $4.5 million in the 2006-07 Federal Budget to commemorate Australian service in Vietnam and, in particular, the Battle of Long Tan — arguably the best-known Australian action during the Vietnam War," he said.

"Today, I was pleased to announce a $40,000 grant towards the construction of a Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial at Torrens Parade Ground. This is in addition to $210,000 to support museum projects recording Australia’s experiences in Vietnam, concerts, parades and other commemorative events and projects in South Australia.

"I thank the South Australian RSL and the local Vietnam veterans’ ex-service organisations for their efforts in ensuring the role of Australians in the Vietnam conflict is not forgotten," he said.

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