The Alliance (ADSO) is the Defence Family’s advocate to governments, parliaments and the Australian people. It’s role is to care for the well-being of the Defence Family and protect their service entitlements.
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission honours the 1.7 million people across both World Wars who made the ultimate sacrifice on the battlefield, ensuring they are never forgotten. This article looks at the history of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) and its vital work today. During gruelling and bloody First World War battles, great swathes […]
Navy Veterans Salute the ‘Forgotten War’ On Thursday 24th June at 10.30 am the N.A.A. (Naval Association of Australia Queensland) will highlight the service of members of the Royal Australia Navy in the Korean War. See the Naval Association of Australia Queensland Section’s Media Release.Media-Media-February-12Download A short ceremony is held at 10.30am on the last Thursday […]
Below is a comment from Liz Cosson, Secretary DVA, regarding this recent Full Federal Court decision. The decision does not affect any DVA payments as such, but it highlights a broader concern that DFWA has with the connectivity between the various government agencies that impact of veterans and their families. I recommend that you read […]
The veteran space has certainly been active over the past few months. Here is a run down of the important issues. Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide Since the last time I wrote to you, there has been a significant change in the Government’s approach to the issue of veteran suicide. On 19 April […]
FOLLOWING three years’ work with veterans, their families, ex-service organisations and the Departments of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs, a new sculpture will be placed on the grounds of the Australian War Memorial recognising the sufferings of war and service. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the sculpture would provide a permanent place at the […]
Veterans, serving members, transitioning members and their families are encouraged to come together over a coffee at the Wounded Heroes Veterans Lounge in Brisbane. CAPTION: Founder of Wounded Heroes Australia Jim Shapcott, left, with Chief of Joint Operations Lieutenant General Greg Bilton cutting the ribbon to open Wounded Heroes Australia Veterans Lounge at Alderley, Brisbane. […]
AS the inimitable Sir Humphrey Appleby once opined, “Minister, two basic rules of government: Never look into anything you don’t have to. “And never set up an inquiry unless you know in advance what its findings will be.”. It should have been the first caution given to whichever genius in the rarefied strata of the Australian Defence […]
The Australian Government has written a covenant with the members of the Australian Defence Community in which it commits to supporting veterans and their families and build greater community awareness of the unique nature of military service. It also promises amongst other things, to support all who have served. This commitment is not always carried […]
Preparation for the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has moved into the next phase. Over the past month I have had discussions with hundreds of veterans, serving members and families across the nation. The feedback has been extremely positive and constructive and while opinions have been incredibly diverse, we all have one common […]
TOMORROW on International Day of United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers, Australians are encouraged to recognise those who have contributed to global peacekeeping efforts. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester said Australia had spent more than 70 years making a significant contribution to worldwide peacekeeping operations. “Australian men and women, often referred to […]
This Reconciliation Week, Australians are urged to take meaningful action towards reconciliation to the theme, More than a word. Reconciliation takes action. The week, which takes place from 27 May – 3 June, encourages us all to reflect on the achievements of First Nations Australians, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders who have served in defence […]
Opinion: Geographic isolation a key factor in nation’s defence
After several overseas military interventions, Australia post-Afghanistan faces what will likely prove a long period of introspective planning for a potential invasion of its mainland. READ MORE