On May 12, a veterans’ forum was held at Breakers Country Club in Wamberal.

Veterans and veterans’ organisations from across the Central Coast were invited to meet with the Federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Matt Keogh MP, State Minister for Veterans, David Harris MP, and Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid MP.

During the forum, a range of issues were discussed including better support for veterans in healthcare and mental health services, veterans’ payments, and the upgrading of IT systems, used by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Matt Keogh MP, says supporting veterans is a key priority for the Albanese Labor Government.

“Our government is committed to repairing the damage done by the former government’s underfunding and under-resourcing of the Department of Veterans Affairs. That has had real-world consequences for veterans.

“One of our top priorities is eliminating the claims backlog from under the last Government to make sure veterans receive the services and supports they need and deserve”.

“It was fantastic to meet with veterans from across the Central Coast to share what the 2023 Budget will mean for them.” Minister Keogh said.

Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid MP says this forum is the start of regular meetings organised by his office.

“The Central Coast has one of the highest proportion of veterans across all age groups compared with any other region in Australia,” Dr Reid said.

“All levels of government, particularly the Federal Government, must ensure we are doing all we can to assist veterans following their service to our nation,” Dr Reid said.

“I am pleased that the Albanese Labor Government has already increased the TPI Payment and invested $87 million into improving the claims processing system, but continued focus is needed across veterans’ issues”, Dr Reid said.

“It was quite special having the Federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Matt Keogh MP, and the new State Minister for Veterans, David Harris MP, attend the inaugural forum and provide advice,” Dr Reid said.

“During my term, I plan on hosting regular veterans’ forums to hear directly from veterans and veterans’ organisations about the issues affecting them and how we can address them,” Dr Reid said.

“Veterans’ support is an issue close to my heart, and I plan on doing all I can to improve the quality of life for our veterans on the Central Coast,” Dr Reid said.

Dr Reid’s office is available to assist veterans on the Central Coast with any issues or concerns relating to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Dr Reid’s office can be contacted by phone on (02) 4322 2400 or by email at [email protected]

ENDS