The Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Bruce Billson, today extended his best wishes to members of the veteran community for a happy and safe Christmas and New Year. Mr Billson said he was thankful for the support he received from many veterans and ex-service organisations during the year, and for the opportunity to work with them to improve the well-being of members of Australia's veteran community.

"In the course of this year, I was privileged to have met and discussed veterans' issues with many wonderful Australians who have served this country so well. My thoughts will continue to be with them and their families throughout the holidays and beyond," Mr Billson said. "A significant milestone was reached in 2006 when activities to mark the 40th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan on 18 August and Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War became the principal focus of our
commemorative calendar."

"I was inspired by the extraordinary community spirit and support shown for our Vietnam veterans in numerous commemorative activities that were held across the nation, and the Australian Government was proud to support those activities." Minister Billson said the Australian Government remained committed to the welfare of the veteran community, and was pleased that veterans, war widows and their dependants were benefiting from a number of new initiatives introduced in the 2006-07 Federal Budget.

"This year, we committed more than $600 million over four years to ensure Gold and White Card holders continue to enjoy access to free high quality health care. For the same period, we also allocated $24.4 million to maintain the veteran community's access to community nursing services, and an extra $20 million to improve mental health care," he said. The Minister said the Department of Veterans' Affairs would be closed for the Christmas-New Year break from Saturday 23 December 2006 to Monday 1 January 2007, re-opening on Tuesday 2 January.

"I wish all veterans and their families an enjoyable holiday season, and it is important to remember that should anyone need support, free counselling is available 24 hours a day through Veterans' Line on 1800 011 046," he said.