Previous consultation – what you told us
How your feedback on the Pathway in 2023 influenced the draft legislation
A vital part of ensuring we get this legislation right, is making sure it meets the needs of the veteran community.
Between 16 February and 12 May 2023, the Australian Government undertook public consultation on a pathway to simplify veteran compensation and rehabilitation legislation. This was in response to the recommendations of the Interim Report by the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
The 2023 consultation process has shaped the proposal you see in front of you today.
Your submissions helped the Government to respond to the issues you told us are of most concern to you.
The 2023 Consultation Report (PDF 480 KB) is available for download, and Submissions received in 2023 can also be viewed.
The webinar transcript, webinar questions and answers, case study examples and general frequently asked questions developed to support the 2023 consultation process are still available online. Please note that the answers given to support the 2023 process may be different to the exposure draft legislation. The current materials can be accessed from the Exposure Draft legislation home page.
Major themes raised during consultation included:
- Gold Card eligibility
- Entitlement inequity across the tri-Act system
- Statements of Principle (SOPs) and Repatriation Medical Authority (RMA)
- Spouse and dependant benefits
- No detriment to veterans under new legislation
- Presumptive Liability
- Grandparenting of benefits
- Police and Civilian coverage
- Remote operations
- Support of single ongoing Act
- Increased wellbeing focus
- Concerns regarding Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA) benefits transitioning to the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA).