Linda Reynolds (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I table the explanatory memorandum relating to the bill and move:

That this bill be now read a second time.

I seek leave to have the second reading speech incorporated in Hansard.

Leave granted.

The speech read as follows—

AUSTRALIAN VETERANS' RECOGNITION (PUTTING VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES FIRST) BILL 2019

I am pleased to introduce the Australian Veterans' Recognition (Putting Veterans and their Families First) Bill 2019. This Bill will acknowledge and give thanks to veterans and their families for making the sacrifices they have made while serving in the Australian Defence Force.

I recognise that the Australian people value our Military and those who have committed to defending our nation, and of course, as a Government we are absolutely committed to putting veterans and their families first.

The introduction of this Bill sees the realisation of an Australian Defence Veterans' Covenant where everyone can acknowledge, support and pay respect to all who have served in the Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force. Australia has a proud military history and the Covenant will enable Australians from all walks of life to pay homage to this.

The Australian Defence Veterans' Covenant will be enshrined into legislation, providing an opportunity for the nation to recognise the service and sacrifice of all who have committed to defend the nation, and pledge their commitment to support veterans and their families.

The Bill also provides for acknowledgement of the demands and challenges that a veteran or their family may experience during and after military service. For these sacrifices, we acknowledge that additional support may be required and where support is required it will be provided in a way that is appropriate and sensitive to their individual circumstances and in a way that elevates their self-esteem.

Along with the Covenant a veteran card and lapel pin will be released – those who have an eligibility for a medical treatment card will receive a veteran card. The lapel pin, for veterans will provide a way for the Australian community and businesses to recognise a veteran and for veterans to reconnect with one another.

The Bill also includes a statement in relation to the beneficial nature of veteran legislation to provide further support to the principles of statutory interpretation that determinations are to be made fairly, justly, consistent with legislation and similar type claims, and in a timely manner so that the public may trust and have confidence in the determinations made.

I commend this Bill.

Ordered that further consideration of the second reading of this bill be adjourned to the first sitting day of the next period of sittings, in accordance with standing order 111.