The Federal Budget has outlined a number of initiatives aimed at supporting veterans and their families, while also flagging significant savings proposals likely to generate discussion across the veteran community.
Soldier On CEO Paul Singer said the Budget included several important announcements for veterans, including increased investment in allied health services and veteran data collection initiatives.
Increased investment in veteran services
Among the headline announcements is $169.7 million over the five years from 2025-26, along with $58.8 million ongoing, to increase allied health provider fees for Veteran Card holders.
The Government has also committed $29.8 million towards establishing the National Veterans’ Data Asset, a new comprehensive data resource designed to help inform policy and decision-making relating to veterans and their families.
Additional funding includes $500,000 to extend the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program.
Questions around savings measures
At the same time, the Budget forecasts approximately $780 million in savings, largely linked to the introduction of a $5,000 Annual Monetary Limit for veterans’ allied health services and simplifying referral requirements.
‘There will understandably be questions across the veteran community about how these measures may affect individuals and families, particularly those with complex or ongoing healthcare needs,’ Mr Singer said.
Soldier On notes that there are mechanisms for DVA to consider funding allied services for veterans above their $5,000 package where there is valid clinical need.
The Budget also includes approximately $1.4 million in savings from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs commemorations program.
Soldier On said it would seek further information about what the proposed savings may mean, particularly in relation to grants and community commemorative activities.
Continuing to advocate for veterans and families
While Soldier On’s proposed Mobile Veteran Support Program was not specifically included in the Budget papers, Mr Singer said the organisation would continue to support the implementation of the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and provide practical assistance for veterans and families – including for those in regional, remote and traditionally underserved communities.
Further detail on several measures is expected in coming weeks as the veteran sector continues assessing the Budget’s potential impact on veterans and families.
