The Hon Alan Griffin MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
VA061
Tuesday 1 July 2008
GRIFFIN CALLS ON SA VETERANS TO PUT THEIR BEST VOICE FORWARD
The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, will be in Adelaide this Thursday seeking the
views of 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.
Adelaide will be the first 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,” 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 always forthright views of
the South Australian veteran and defence 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 Thursday’s meetings.
“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 South Australian veteran community interested in
the Prime Ministerial Advisory Council to attend the meetings 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 Thursday 3 July 2008 from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Blackburn House, 199
Grenfell Street Adelaide. 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
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