Australian Veterans’ Recognition (Putting Veterans and their Families First) Act 2019

The Australian Veterans’ Recognition (Putting Veterans and their Families First) Act 2019 (the Act) received Royal Assent on 30 October 2019 and commenced on 31 October 2019.

The Act includes the Australian Defence Veterans’ Covenant (Covenant). The Covenant recognises the unique nature of military service, and will provide an opportunity for all Australians to recognise veterans and their families and the service and sacrifice they have made as members of the Australian Defence Force.

The Act is part of the Veterans’ Recognition package designed to provide recognition to veterans and their families. As part of the recognition package, a Veteran Card, Lapel Pin and Oath will be distributed to veterans. The Veteran and Reservist Lapel Pin will allow veterans to be easily identifiable by the Australian community where they choose to wear it.

The Act includes a commitment by the Government to the Commission deciding a claim under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 within 90 days from when the Commission receives the claim, or within 90 days of any requested information being provided.

A copy of the Act can be found on the Parliament of Australia web site.