The first step on a long journey of reform
A significant step toward system reform was made on 3 July when the Veterans’ Entitlements, Treatment and Support (Simplification and Harmonisation) Bill 2024 was introduced into Parliament. For so long this piece of work has been deemed too difficult and unpopular therefore nothing has changed.
We are glad to see that finally really change is on its way. However, it is important to recognise that this Bill is merely the first step to a much larger body of reform work, including within the legislation itself.
The Bill has now been referred to the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade
Legislation Committee who is to report by 03 October 2024. We have been invited to make a submission.
Having already canvassed views of the families of veterans and having a clear position in terms of the amendments we would like to see made to the framework, we will use this opportunity to reiterate the positions and arguments made in our earlier submission.
