✦ Plain-English Summary

Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment Bill 2020

What it does

This bill makes three main changes to how veterans and their families are supported: it increases family representation on decision-making commissions, introduces new help for veterans transitioning to civilian jobs, and adjusts energy supplements for eligible veterans and their families.

Why it matters

Veterans and their families rely on these entitlements for financial stability and support after service. Having more family voices in commission decisions means their concerns are better heard when important support matters are discussed.

Key details

• Family representation: Commissions that make decisions about veteran support must now have 2 family representatives instead of 1, ensuring families have a stronger say in how veterans are helped.

• Civilian transition support: New provisions help veterans move into regular jobs after military service, recognising that leaving the armed forces can be challenging.

• Energy supplement: Veterans on eligible payments receive adjustments to their energy supplement, helping with household costs.

• Timing: Different parts start at different times—some immediately after the bill passes, others within 6-12 months depending on what needs to be set up first.

Official Description

Amends the: Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 and Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 to create a new position on the Repatriation Commission and Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission to represent the families of veterans; Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 to enable the provision of assistance or benefits to former Australian Defence Force members to assist them to transition into civilian work; and Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 to extend eligibility for the quarterly energy supplement to holders of gold cards under the Australian Participants in British Nuclear Tests and British Commonwealth Occupation Force (Treatment) Act 2006 and Treatment Benefits (Special Access) Act 2019 .

Committee Referrals

Senate Standing Committee for the Scrutiny of Bills

No formal division recorded

This bill passed by voice vote — parliament agreed without calling a formal count. A division is only recorded when a member explicitly requests one.

No votes yet.

No votes were recorded for this bill.