Government seeks your feedback on veterans' legislative reform

Consultation on reforming veterans’ legislation has commenced today with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) seeking submissions from the community.

The Australian Government recently agreed to Recommendation 1 of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide Interim Report, which called for the development and passage of legislation to simplify and harmonise the framework for veterans’ compensation, rehabilitation and other entitlements.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs the Hon. Matt Keogh said the Government is determined to deliver on its commitment to implement this recommendation in accordance with the timeline set out by the Royal Commission.

“The existing legislative framework is too complex, making it challenging for the department to process claims and difficult for veterans to access the services and support they need,” Mr Keogh said.

A significant investigation of the legislative framework has already been completed by the Productivity Commission in its 2019 inquiry report A Better Way to Support Veterans. The Royal Commission identified recommendations in this report for the Government to consider as part of this reform process and we are now seeking feedback on both the recommendations made by the Productivity Commission and the Royal Commission in relation to legislative reform.
“This is an important opportunity for the community to share their views on how we can improve the legislation in line with the recommendations of the Productivity Commission’s report.

“I encourage current serving and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force, family members, ex-service organisations, medical providers and others who interact with the veteran and family system to share their views.”

Those wishing to provide feedback can do so, anonymously if they wish, by 14 November 2022 at www.dva.gov.au/legislationconsultation2022 or by emailing PCConsultation2022@dva.gov.au

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or the Open Arms website. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or the Defence Health Portal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608