Veterans Law Reform Pathway 2023
General
The Australian Special Air Service Association (ASASA) commends the government for its
decision to draw the three Acts into one piece of legislation based on MRCA with the
grandfathering of the VEA and DRCA. The object of the reform must be a simpler, and more
effective service within budget parameters which is easier for both veterans and public
servants to navigate and use.
Basis of Pathway for consultation
We agree with the stated consultation process, but caution that the critical stage will be
detailed consultation based on draft legislation. We ask for the opportunity for further
comment upon promulgation of the draft Bill. The ASASA has a suitable officer who could
participate in a writing team or consultative team if requested. The ASASA strongly urges that
the Bill be referred to a relevant parliamentary committee at the relevant parliamentary
stage.
Reform Philosophy
Scope. Success must be more than simply the consolidation of three Acts into one. This reform
process must deliver efficiencies and better services. It is a chance to harmonise, streamline
and simplify this process of government to make it easier to navigate and use for both
veterans and the public service and to effect savings for redirection form administration into
services. The broader opportunity must not be missed. The problem to be solved is to
eliminate the backlog of claims, further improve claims management, better support veterans
and to deliver improved government services. The solution is not necessarily to grow the size
of DVA or government by hiring more public servants and growing bureaucracy. More
efficient legislation and process can enable existing resources and staff to improve
productivity.
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