Veterans have been given a life-changing and in many cases life-saving win after the Coalition forced Labor to ‘scrap the cap’ on allied health services.
Federal Member for Flynn, Colin Boyce said today’s decision belonged to the veterans who stood up and made their voices heard.
“This is a victory for veterans, their families and everyone who stood alongside them and refused to give up,” Mr Boyce said.
“Our veterans have served our country and made enormous sacrifices in doing so. In return, Australia has an obligation to make sure they receive the care and support they need.
“They should never have been put in the position of having to fight their own government for access to that care.”
Mr Boyce said Labor’s $5,000 cap on allied health care for veterans should never have seen the light of day.
“I want to acknowledge the veterans, their families and advocates who stood their ground and fought hard on this issue.
“Those who have served our country deserve our respect, but more importantly, they deserve practical support when they need it.
“This is a win for Australia’s veterans, and it is a win they fought hard for.”
Fair Care for Veterans spokesman John Armfield, a former Navy clearance diver, said this is what happens when a government listens to veterans.
“Veterans, families and doctors came from all over the country to say one thing: this cap would only ever hurt the most badly injured,” Mr Armfield said.
“Today the Minister agreed, and we thank him for it. Nobody had to lose for this to happen. The Minister made the right call, and he deserves credit for it.
“The Minister says he wants to keep talking to veterans and providers. We welcome that, and we’ll be there. We’ll also make sure whatever comes next doesn’t bring the cap back under another name. We thank the Coalition for standing by our side in this fight, along with independent Senators. We could not have done this without their moral clarity.”
ENDS