Veterans and veterans’ organisations from across the Central Coast had the chance to meet with Federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh, State Minister for Veterans David Harris and Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid at a forum on May 12 at Wamberal’s Breakers Country Club.
A range of issues was discussed including better support for veterans in healthcare and mental health services, veterans’ payments, and the upgrading of IT systems used by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
Keogh said supporting veterans was a key priority for the Federal Government.
“Our government is committed to repairing the damage done by the former government’s under-funding and under-resourcing of the Department of Veterans Affairs,” he said.
“That has had real-world consequences for veterans.
“One of our top priorities is eliminating the claims backlog … to make sure veterans receive the services and supports they need and deserve.
“It was fantastic to meet with veterans from across the Central Coast to share what the 2023 Budget will mean for them.”
Reid said the forum was the start of regular meetings to be organised by his office.
“The Central Coast has one of the highest proportion of veterans across all age groups compared with any other region in Australia,” he said.
“All levels of government, particularly the federal government, must ensure we are doing all we can to assist veterans following their service to our nation.
Gordon Reid MP
“I am pleased that the federal government has already increased the TPI Payment and invested $87M into improving the claims processing system, but continued focus is needed across veterans’ issues.”
Reid said it was “quite special” to have both State and Federal Ministers for Veterans’ Affairs attend the inaugural forum and provide advice.
“During my term, I plan on hosting regular veterans’ forums to hear directly from veterans and veterans’ organisations about the issues affecting them and how we can address them,” he said.
“Veterans’ support is an issue close to my heart, and I plan on doing all I can to improve the quality of life for our veterans on the Central Coast.”
Reid’s office is available to assist veterans on the Central Coast with any issues or concerns relating to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
Contact the office by calling 4322 2400 or emailing Gordon.Reid.MP@aph.gov.au.
Source:
Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid