RSL Welcomes budget funding to support veterans
MEDIA RELEASE
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) has welcomed the federal budget funding announcement to increase staff to process veteran support claims.
But the organisation warns that even more funding will be required to remedy the serious issues being raised in the current Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
RSL Australia President Greg Melick said the employment of additional staff and other measures to improve veterans’ claims processing and reduce waiting times was very welcome.
“However, such funding should be provided as part of a demand driven funding model rather than continual supplementation, Greg Melick said.
“Veterans are entitled to the comfort of knowing that resources are guaranteed rather than being bargained for on an annual basis.
“Our veterans and current serving members make a great contribution to our nation, and they are deserving of the highest level of support to repay them for their sacrifice.”
Greg Melick says the Royal Commission is shining a light on the difficulties many of our veterans and Defence Force members endure and redressing this will undoubtedly require considerably more government funding in the future.
“The RSL also welcomes the Budget funding for the psychiatric assistance dogs’ program, as well as support for financial counselling for current and former ADF personnel and financial support for the Invictus Games and the biannual Warrior Games.
“The construction of a pavilion in Borneo to honour World War Two prisoners of war and a remembrance trail on the Greek island of Lemnos where Australian doctors, nurses and others served in World War One will provide fitting reminders of the sacrifices of Australia’s serving men and women,” Greg Melick said.
