The Hon Alan Griffin MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
VA036
15 April 2008
KOKODA TRACK CONTRIBUTION COMMEMORATES
90th ANNIVERSARY OF AUSTRALIA REPATRIATION
Staff at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs are aiming to raise $25,000 to support the
Kokoda Track Foundation, in a special initiative to mark the 90th anniversary of the
Australian repatriation system.
The Governor-General and patron of the Kokoda Track Foundation, Major General
Michael Jeffery AC CVO MC, and the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, today
officially launched the fundraising program in Canberra.
“The Repatriation Commission commenced operations in April 1918, to administer
compensation, income support, health care and other services for Australian veterans of
wars and conflicts,” Mr Griffin said.
“Over 90 years, the Commission has been supported in its work by staff of the Department
of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), which was known until 1976 as the Repatriation Department.
“DVA staff are proud of their history of service to the Australian veteran community and
this shows in their decision to contribute to the Kokoda Track Foundation.”
The Foundation was established in 2003 in recognition of the assistance given to
Australian soldiers during the Second World War by the people of Papua New Guinea,
including the ‘Fuzzy-Wuzzy Angels’ – the Kioari and Orokaivean people living along the
Kokoda Track.
It aims to promote education, health and sporting initiatives designed to enhance the well-
being, future and enjoyment of the local communities on the Track.
The Minister said DVA staff had already raised $10,000 for the Foundation through fund-
raising at their offices around Australia. Staff will have the opportunity for the rest of the
year to contribute regularly through a salary deduction program.
“The staff of my Department provide great support to the veteran community on behalf of
the Government, by administering taxpayer’s funds for veterans’ services.
“They are to be congratulated for taking the opportunity to make their own, personal
contribution to such a worthy cause,” Mr Griffin said.
Media inquiries: Laura Ryan 0437 863 109
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