The Hon Alan Griffin MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
VA066
Tuesday 8 July 2008
ACT VETERANS’ VIEWS SOUGHT BY MINISTER
The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, will be in Canberra next Tuesday seeking the views of
local veterans on the best way to give them a more effective voice at the highest levels of government.
Minister Griffin said meetings to be held nation-wide would discuss the structure and role of the Prime
Ministerial Advisory Council on Ex-Service Matters—a key election commitment. Canberra will be one of
eight meetings around the country.
“More than 100 individuals and organisations from all around Australia responded to a discussion paper
on the Prime Ministerial Advisory Council on Ex-Service Matters released earlier this year, including 14
from the ACT,” Mr Griffin said.
“Their submissions demonstrate very strong support for the Advisory Council and its role, but have
raised issues that need further discussion.
“During the parliamentary recess I will be travelling to meet veterans in every state and territory to
discuss these issues in person. I’m looking forward to hearing the views of Canberra’s astute and well-
informed ex-service and veteran communities.
“There are a number of options on the table, including membership, appointment of the chair, how
matters are referred to the Council, how it should operate and how it relates to my Department.
“The Government is also reviewing all consultation mechanisms between the Department of Veterans’
Affairs and the broader defence and ex-service communities. This will also be discussed at Tuesday’s
meeting.
“I want to ensure the Council meets the needs of veterans and ex-service personnel before its
establishment later this year. These consultation meetings with veterans and the veteran community are
essential to achieve that goal.
“I expect there will be a range of opinions and robust discussion, but I know that we share the goal of
looking out for the best interests of all those who have served Australia in uniform.
“I encourage all veterans and members of the ACT veteran community interested in the Prime Ministerial
Advisory Council to attend the meeting and contribute to the discussion.
“Following these consultation meetings I intend to appoint the Advisory Council by the end of August.”
The meeting is on Tuesday 15 July 2008 from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Lovett Tower, Woden. Further
details of meetings and copies of submissions are available at minister.dva.gov.au/PMAC/index.htm.
Meeting RSVPs: 02 6225 4455
Media inquiries: Laura Ryan 0437 863 109
To receive the Minister’s media releases automatically by email please go to minister.dva.gov.au/subscribe.htm
NEWS 
