Minister for Veterans John Eren today released the Veterans Sector Study Report – undertaken by the Victorian Veterans Council to refresh Victoria’s understanding of the veterans sector and the welfare and priorities of our veterans.
Victoria boasts the third highest population of veterans in Australia. Some 63,842 known veterans and their families call Victoria home, and 50 per cent are aged 75 or over.
The Veterans Sector Study Report found the veteran community in Victoria is changing, and we need to rethink our strategy to recognise, commemorate and give them the care they deserve.
The Report raises a series of key themes and makes 14 recommendations to help Victoria better assist veterans and commemorate their sacrifice. The Andrews Labor Government will consult with the Veterans Council and Ex-Service Community on the priorities in the report.
Key themes and issues raised include:
- Older veterans’ service needs generally relate to health and aged service, while younger veterans’ priorities relate to employment and families.
- While the majority of veterans manage to transition to civilian life with minimal disruptions, a small number experience issues and service gaps that include income security, homelessness, domestic violence support, social isolation, mental health and substance abuse services.
- A need for better communication and information sharing among the ex-service community and veterans, improving access to services for regionally based veterans, and a need to map and identify priority service gaps and requirements of the veteran community.
The Labor Government is giving our veterans the fitting tribute and support networks that they deserve.
The Government’s 2015-16 Victorian Budget includes $400,000 to support the wellbeing of veterans and their families, working with the RSL to safeguard the welfare of the men and women who served our country.
The Victorian Government provided $1.35 million to Housing Choices Australia to deliver the Veterans Accommodation Project in Richmond, where veterans facing hardship will be able to find their feet again in emergency accommodation.
A copy of the Report can be found at:
Quotes attributable to Minister for Veterans, John Eren
“There are 63,842 known veterans and their families living in Victoria, and each and every one of them deserves our care and respect.”
“We’ll consider this report carefully, because our veterans deserve the greatest respect.”
Quotes attributable to Victorian Veterans Council Chair, Rear Admiral John Lord AM
“The Veteran Sector Study Report provides the Veterans Council and Victorian Government with an up to date picture on the existing and emerging issues facing our veteran community.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020