SUPPORTING THE TASMANIAN EX-SERVICE COMMUNITY

VETERANS and their families in Tasmania will be able to have their say in how to access support with the Federal and Tasmanian governments jointly investing $120,000 to undertake a feasibility study to look at an integrated, nationally connected service for the state.

Federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester and Tasmanian Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Guy Barnett today announced the joint initiative, which will see the veteran community in Tasmania consulted and asked about how they can be better supported across the state.

“We all have a passion for supporting veterans and their families, and it is important we all work together to continue to improve their health and wellbeing, and to provide individualised services based on local veterans’ needs,” Mr Chester said.

“I thank the Tasmanian Government and Mr Barnett for their commitment to veterans and their families. I also thank the Member for Braddon Mr Gavin Pearce MP, a 20-year Army veteran, and Member for Bass Mrs Bridget Archer MP who have both strongly advocated for veterans and their families in Tasmania.”

This builds on a feasibility study which is being conducted in the Australian Capital Territory in conjunction with the ACT Government, as well as the Federal Government’s $30 million investment in a network of six Veterans’ Wellbeing Centres across the nation.

State Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Guy Barnett said this announcement is a welcome step forward and further builds on work already underway to support Tasmania’s veterans and ex-service personnel.

“The assistance, support and advocacy for veterans and their families has never been more important, and this feasibility study will look at what services are required and where, and how best to deliver that support,” Mr Barnett said. 

“This is an opportunity to work together to increase available services and supports to the veteran community, which will include both government and non-government input for a coordinated local approach.”

The feasibility study will include broad stakeholder engagement, data collection and consideration of potential connection with research institutions. 

Further details regarding the feasibility study, including how to be involved, are available on the DVA website.