Statement from the Deputy President Repatriation Commission, Mr Craig Orme DSC AM CSC, regarding the proposed introduction of a new Bill for current and former ADF members.
“Dear members,
I’m aware of emails circulating in the veteran community about possible new veterans’ legislation being drafted. I’m emailing to advise that the Government intends to introduce a Bill to make a standalone version of the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (SRCA) for current and former Australian Defence Force (ADF) members.
This would mean that the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs would be responsible for all compensation Acts for ADF members. Currently, the Minister for Employment has responsibility for the SRCA.
Should the new Act be passed by Parliament, eligibility and benefits under the Act will be the same as those currently available to serving and former ADF members under the existing SRCA. The new Act (if passed) will be the same as the current SRCA, so there will be no change to existing entitlements or access to benefits. The Bill simply replicates the SRCA – there are no additions or any other changes.
This new Bill has been discussed for some time – it was referenced in a March 2015 media release of the former Minister for Veterans’ Affairs.
The Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 and the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 will remain in place and will be unchanged by the new Act.
Regards,
Craig.”
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