The Hon Alan Griffin MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
VA063
Thursday 3 July 2008
GRIFFIN CALLS ON WA VETERANS TO PUT THEIR BEST VOICE FORWARD
The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, will be in Perth this Monday 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. Perth will be the
second 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 12
from Western Australia,” 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 am looking forward to hearing the views of Perth’s large and active
ex-service and veteran community.
“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 Monday’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 West Australian 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 Monday 7 July 2008 from 10.00am to 12.00pm on the 5th Floor, AMP Building, 140 St
Georges Terrace, Perth. Further details of meetings and copies of submissions are available at
minister.dva.gov.au/PMAC/index.htm.
Meeting RSVPs: 08 9366 8261
Media inquiries: Laura Ryan 0437 863 109
NEWS 
