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.
A special commemorative medallion marking the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War is now available to every living Second World War veteran to say ‘thank you for your service’. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester today launched the medallion and certificate in the lead up to the end of the Second […]
The Winter 2020 issue of Vetaffairs is now available online, featuring: Celebrating our veteran employment award-winners Input wanted on DVA’s consultation framework New Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy launched Advocate gives veterans’ families voice on support Planning for staying health during COVID-19 Vital to continue normal medical contacts during pandemic Safe Zone – Veteran […]
The current ADF pay arrangement is due to expire and a new three-year Workplace Remuneration Arrangement (WRA) (2020-2023) is scheduled to commence at the end of this year. The DFWA will once again be involved in the WRA process by way of providing an independent voice to the Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal thus ensuring the interests […]
In March 2020, the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) in Brisbane upheld the objections of the three Veterans against the Australian Tax Office (ATO) treatment of their DFRDB and MSBS Class A and B Invalidity Benefits paid by the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC). This effectively meant that the Invalidity Benefits paid by CSC should be treated […]
Foreword The Government’s firm commitment to the Australian people remains that we will keep our nation safe and protect our way of life for future generations. It is clear, however, that Australia’s strategic environment has deteriorated more rapidly than anticipated when we made this commitment in the 2016 Defence White Paper. This deterioration means that […]
“The complete debate is well worth listening to as the question of China and its developing influence is problematic for us here in Australia. The China question will not go away so it is best to be aware of all the nuances in these interesting times. It is important to note that this is a […]
The Ombudsman’s office today (11th December) released a Media Statement on the outcome of his inquiry into DFRDB Commutation. A copy of that Statement and the Ombudsman’s Report is here. Ministerial Statement – Independent Inquiry Report into DFRDB Scheme The Government acknowledges the release of the Commonwealth Ombudsman’s independent investigation into the Defence Force Retirement […]
SUPPORT for veterans and their families who may be struggling with mental health conditions or at risk of suicide, will be enhanced through the Community and Peer Program which is currently being rolled out across Australia. The program, run by Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling (Open Arms), connects veterans and family members who […]
MORE veterans seeking to manage their post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) will benefit with the expansion of the Government’s psychiatric assistance dog program. Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said following the successful launch of the program in September there had been increased interest from the ex-service community and organisations passionate about supporting veterans’ […]
The Australian Defence Veterans’ Covenant serves to recognise and acknowledge the unique nature of military service and the contribution of veterans and their families. The Covenant is supported by the Veteran Card, Lapel Pin and Oath. These provide the opportunity for Australians to identify veterans when they are not in uniform or wearing their medals, […]
Advice from Liz Cosson. “Good Afternoon, I would like to thank you for your ongoing commitment and support to ensuring veterans and their families receive the recognition and respect they deserve for their service and sacrifice to our country. I am pleased to let you know that the Government’s Australian Veterans’ Recognition (Putting Veterans and […]
MORE SUPPORT TO FORMER PARTNERS OF VETERANS ALL recipients of the Partner Service Pension through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) will now maintain access for at least 12 months after separating from their veteran partner, regardless of their marital status, under legislative changes passed through Parliament today. Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren […]