Supporting future
generations of Australian veterans while acknowledging past
service is the focus of the Australian Government's 2006-07
veterans' affairs budget. The Minister for Veterans' Affairs,
Bruce Billson, said the Australian Government had committed
$10.8 billion to the veterans' affairs portfolio in 2006-07.
"This year's total funding of $10.8 billion reflects
an environment where there has been a demographic shift in
the veteran population. There are fewer veterans with more
complex needs and changes in the nature of services they require,"
the Minister said.
"World War II veterans have comprised the majority of
the veteran population for many years. Their numbers are now
declining, but increasingly the Department of Veterans' Affairs
is providing rehabilitation services and compensation to serving
members of the Australian Defence Force, those who have recently
left the services and peacekeepers and peacemakers from other
agencies."
"It is vital that we maintain the quality of core services
to our older veterans, while ensuring that we are meeting
the needs of younger personnel." Mr Billson said the
2006-07 veterans' affairs budget included $4.6 billion for
health care and rehabilitation. "The health and welfare
of our veterans and current ADF members is a priority of the
Australian Government. That's why we have allocated an extra
$20 million over four years to improving access to mental
health care, with a strong emphasis on early identification
and treatment. "We have also committed $24.4 million
over four years to ensure continued access to high quality
community nursing services for the veteran community.
"Through the Department of Veterans' Affairs, the Australian
Government continues to deliver a comprehensive veteran compensation
and income support system with $6.1 billion included in the
2006-07 budget. The Military Rehabilitation and Compensation
Act is now fully implemented and is delivering world class
rehabilitation and compensation coverage for our men and women
serving their nation both in Australia and in several areas
of conflict around the world.
"Benefits available under the Military Rehabilitation
and Compensation Act and the Safety Rehabilitation and Compensation
Act for the cost of funerals have been increased to $9000.
These increased benefits will be available from 1 July 2006
at an estimated cost of $0.15 million over four years. "In
addition we have allocated some $45.8 million to honouring
the service and sacrifice of Australians in wars, conflicts
and peace operations.
"On 18 August this year, we will mark the 40th anniversary
of the Battle of Long Tan - arguably the most well-known Australian
action during the Vietnam War. This anniversary provides us
with an opportunity to recognise and commemorate the service
of all Australian servicemen and women in Vietnam. The Australian
Government has committed $4.5 million over four years to support
a range of special events and activities to recognise the
contribution of the more than 59,000 Australians who served
in Vietnam.
"During 2006-07 we will also be commemorating the 90th
anniversary of the Battles of the Western Front during WWI.
Some $10.5 million over four years will go towards projects
including the reconstruction of the Australian Corps Memorial
at Le Hamel in France, developing an interpretive display
focusing on Australia's involvement in the Third Battle of
Ypres for inclusion in a museum in Belgium, installing interpretive
panels at Western Front battle sites explaining Australia's
involvement, and a feasibility study into establishing an
Australian interpretive centre on the Western Front."
Mr Billson said the Government had also allocated $2.1 million
in 2006-07 to incorporate the bridge and gun sections of HMAS
Brisbane into the new post 1945 conflicts galleries at the
Australian War Memorial.
"Tonight's Budget reinforces the Australian Government's
commitment to meeting the changing needs of our veterans and
defence force communities, while helping Australians continue
to acknowledge the service and sacrifice of those who serve
their country," the Minister said.