Coalition keeps promise to veteran community

The Coalition Government has delivered its election promise to 57,000 military superannuants and their families.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt said 556 local veterans, aged 55 and over, will benefit from changes to the Defence Forces Retirement Benefits scheme (DFRB) and Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits (DFRDB) schemes.

“From 1 July next year military superannuants will have their pensions indexed in the same way as age and service pensions,” Mr Pitt said.

“The fair indexation provisions will also extend to reversionary (widow) pensioners aged 55 and over.” 

“This has been a long fought campaign for equity, justice and fairness by the Australian veteran community.

“The Coalition promised our veterans a fair go before the 2010 and 2013 elections and now, with the passing of this legislation, we have delivered on our promise.

“The legislation recognises of the unique nature of military service and the sacrifices military personnel and their families make on behalf of all Australians.”

Mr Pitt said it was important the Government, on behalf of the Australian community, recognise the contribution and sacrifice made by military personnel.

He said Certificates of Appreciation were now available under the Saluting Their Service commemorations program, for those who served during the Second World War (both in the armed forces or as civilians on the home front), with the British Commonwealth Occupation Force (BCOF) Japan, Korean War, Malayan Emergency, Indonesian Confrontation, Vietnam War, Gulf War, Iraq War, War in Afghanistan and during peacekeeping operations.

They are also available as a lasting legacy to the family of deceased veterans.  Certificates can be requested by email Keith.Pitt.MP@aph.gov.au or telephone on 07 4152 0744.