New voice for Queensland Veterans

Victoria Cross recipient Cpl Ben Roberts-Smith VC is among the people on a new council which will advise the State Government on issues affecting veterans in Queensland.

Minister Assisting the Premier on the Centenary of Anzac Glen Elmes said the Queensland Veterans Advisory Council would give veterans a new direct connection with the Government, delivering the election promise to revitalise frontline services.

“Veterans are primarily supported through Commonwealth Government programs, but the Queensland Government provides some services for veterans, such as allied health care and various concessions,” Mr Elmes said.

“The Council will provide a much needed forum for Queensland’s veteran community to talk directly with the Queensland Government to ensure veterans are receiving the assistance they need.

“Many Queenslanders have contributed to Australia’s military effort during the past hundred years, and it’s important that we recognise that by listening to our veterans.

“QVAC’s members represent a diverse range of ex-service and community organisations which promote the wellbeing of veterans and their families in Queensland.

“The inclusion of Cpl Ben Roberts-Smith VC will ensure the interests of recent and current service personnel are represented.”

Mr Elmes said the inaugural Chair of the Council is Danny O’Kearney who had more than 20 years’ service in the regular army and fourteen years’ service in the Army and Navy Reserve.

Council members, who will serve an initial two-year term, represent a broad range of veterans’  organisations.