News & Updates - 2019

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19 Dec 2019	Australia honours our Rwanda peacekeeping veterans AUSTRALIANS will commemorate the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Rwanda (UNAMIR), Operation TAMAR, with a National Commemorative Service in February 2020.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said Operation TAMAR was established in July 1994 in response to the humanitarian crisis in Rwanda and in support of the United Nations Assistance Mission.  More.....
18 Dec 2019	Season’s Greetings from Chief of Navy, VADM MJ Noonan, AO, RAN View eCard.....
15 Dec 2019	Australian Operational Service Medal - Special Operations The Australian Operational Service Medal (AOSM) – Special Operations recognises the service of Australian Defence Force members on special operations as declared by the Chief of the Defence Force from 1 November 2019.  More.....
13 Dec 2019	Joint communiqué – Veterans Ministerial Council At the meeting of the Veterans Ministerial Council on 29 November 2019, State and Territory Ministers provided initial feedback on the draft of the Commonwealth’s new Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy and National Action Plan to improve veteran mental health and wellbeing and reduce suicide.  More.....
11 Dec 2019	Statement - Independent inquiry report into DFRDB scheme The Government acknowledges the release of the Commonwealth Ombudsman’s independent investigation into the Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits (DFRDB) scheme.  The Government listened to the concerns of the ex-service community in initiating an independent review of the DFRDB scheme, which focused on the accuracy of information provided about commutation by the Department of Defence (Defence), the Australian Defence Force (ADF) or the scheme administrators, such as the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC).  More.....
07 Dec 2019	Simpler access to medical treatment for veterans VETERANS who currently have to pay for their medical treatment upfront and wait to be reimbursed will only need to present their Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) health card to pay for their treatment under changes to the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA) passed through Parliament yesterday.  More.....
29 Nov 2019	Release of reports from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Today the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare released three independent reports into the health and wellbeing of serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel:  1. The National suicide monitoring of serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force personnel: 2019 update 2. Use of homelessness services by contemporary ex-serving ADF members: 2011–17 3. Medications dispensed to contemporary ex-serving Australian Defence Force members 2017–18.  More.....
28 Nov 2019	Expanding access to low cost home insurance for veterans and members of the Australian Defence Force More than 300,000 additional Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and veterans, including Reservists and Peacekeepers, will be able to access low cost home insurance through the Defence Service Homes Insurance.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said changes to eligibility will mean all current and former ADF members who have at least one days’ continuous service can access Defence Service Homes Insurance from 1 January 2020.  More.....
28 Nov 2019	Fremantle Surf Life Saving Club's HMAS SYDNEY II Memorial Service - Sunday 24th Nov 2019. The service was attended by a number of Ex HMAS SYDNEY crew both III and IV, along with the HMAS SYDNEY II Banner presented by CDFSA Harvey Dennison President, Haydn Smith Secretary, Jeff Wake Welfare Officer (HMAS SYDNEY Association) SYDNEY III crew.  Sally Lovett Ex POEW was our Focal Point for the morning and WOCSO Lex Davison was our current serving Uniformed member.  All reports the SYDNEY Crew was well received by the club and members.  View photos in our gallery.....
27 Nov 2019	Veterans to play key role in memorial development project VETERANS will be engaged on the early works of the Australian War Memorial’s development project, with construction company Lendlease today announced as the head contractor for the extension of the Poppy’s Café car park.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the extension works, which are worth $10.5 million and are expected to take eight months to complete, will see Lendlease partner with its subcontractors and organisations such as Veterans in Construction to complete the project.  More.....
27 Nov 2019	HMAS Sydney Association's Bi-monthly newsletter is now available to download.....
22 Nov 2019	Commemorative projects showcase community spirit LOCAL RSLs and schools are among the latest recipients of Saluting Their Service grants as more than $360,000 in funding is delivered to commemorative projects and activities across Australia.  The Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the diversity of groups applying and their projects demonstrate that commemorating our military service remains an important part of a community’s identity.  More.....
18 Nov 2019	Revised Edition Out of sight Out Of Mind (OSOM), now available Members We have received 4 x Boxes of our President, Dr John Carroll`s Revised Edition of his book Out Of Sight Out of Mind. For those who have not read the 1st edition, this is not a Warrie, it is a factual record of the Logistical Ships role in the Vietnam War. This is an invaluable tool for RSL Advocates when representing Sailors, who served in Logistic Service Ships and Gun line ships in Vietnam, much of John's research into the effects of exposure to Herbicide is also relative to Army & Airforce Vietnam Veterans. He has increased the the Chapter on Herbicide exposure. Buy a copy for the Specialists treating you for Vietnam War related illness. This book has taken John years of work and every piece of research is backed up by scientific fact and is credentialed in the Bibolgraphy. Having read this edition, I have only one comment. WOW! Price to all Vietnam Veterans, Advocates, ESO's and the greater Navy family posted anywhere in Australia is: $25.00 Per Book + $13.80 Post + $2.50 Padded Bag = Grand Total $41.30. It will cost only $25.00, should you wish to pick it up in person, at the Frankston Navy Club, 36 Barretts Rd Langwarrin Sth, please let me know and I will bring a copy (cheques accepted). Friday Nights from 1930. I will have plenty for sale at the Extra Ordinary Meeting, to be held 1100, Tuesday 26 November at the Club. Email your order to me or ring. Regards David Speed Dwyer Secretary Email:  Mob: 0423 675 146
18 Nov 2019
16 Nov 2019	Message from your Secretary David Dwyer.... G’Day All. This info. was sent to me from !7 Construction SQN. RAEME Workshops Assn. (Not Engineers) Please see the details below regarding GST exemption for eligible veterans, especially TPI card holders. VEHICLE GST EXEMPTION and UNLAWFUL PRACTICES Today, I phoned the ATO after an eligible veteran had difficulty obtaining a GST exemption on car parts; in this case a car battery. Several places flat out refused an exemption for various reasons including their claim that their goods were of a low enough price and so the veteran didn’t need a GST exemption (a couple of hundred dollars is not cheap to some veterans). Another stated he would not do it because he needed to get advice from his accountant and that would cost him too much, so no exemption. Some businesses offered some form of discount in lieu of a GST exemption. After several hours we did finally get a car battery for this veteran today GST-exempt thanks to Beaurepaires. Not only did their manager keep blank ATO exemption forms in the store, when this veteran and I arrived at the store he was offered a quality brand-name battery, was given a generous discount (without asking for it), and then had the GST removed from the total bill. I installed the battery to save him the install charge. WHAT THE ATO HAD TO SAY Being concerned that other veterans might be unfairly treated, especially by the likes of the businesses that flat out refused to provide a GST-exemption, I phoned the ATO on the number printed on the ATO declaration form for advice. I stated what had occurred with all of the businesses today in detail. The ATO transferred me to their GST Business Section in Dandenong, Victoria where a Senior Taxation Officer (name withheld) who administers this area of the GST legislation stated all of the incidents above, except for our pleasant experience with Beaurepaires, were unlawful and that we should report these businesses to the ‘ATO Tax Evasion Referral Centre (TERC)’. The ATO stated that GST is not payable by an eligible veteran and so they are especially interested to know what these dealers are doing with the GST that they are unlawfully collecting. We are not so inclined to report the business that offered a discount equivalent to the GST (although the ATO says he too is acting unlawfully). However, reporting is in progress for a couple of the businesses that refused a GST exemption today. The ATO stated I should pass this reporting procedure on to other veterans who may encounter similar situations. Reports may be made to the ATO’s – TAX EVASION REFERRAL CENTRE (online, or by phone, fax or mail), details below: ONLINE (tax evasion reporting form) https://www.ato.gov.au/ReportTaxEvasionTERC/ PHONE 1800 060 062 FAX 1800 804 544 POSTAL Australian Taxation Office Tax Evasion Referral Centre Locked bag 6050 Dandenong VIC 3175 Please include: business name & address, ABN, manager’s name, date & time of the incident and a full description of the incident.
15 Nov 2019	Increased support for transitioning ADF members Australian Defence Force (ADF) members leaving full-time service will be better supported during transition and into new employment under a new contract Defence has signed with Right Management Consultants Pty Ltd.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the contract marked an important step for Defence as it moves to a needs-based transition support system.  More.....
06 Nov 2019	HMAS Sydney II 80th Anniversary 2021 Update from Adrian Burns Load Contact and Liaison We finally have an update to the HMAS SYDNEY II 80th Anniversary in Geraldton Nov 2021.  I’ve been working closely with quite a number of outstanding people who are assisting with the plans and program for the 80th.  Whilst progressing we discovered that a Memorial Cruise had been partially instigated by an Ex Vietnam Veteran from the RAAF No: 9 Squadron.  With this exciting discovery we naturally bought Geoff Irving and his amazing talents onboard combining all plans into one Exciting and Very Memorable Anniversary event for not only the all Ex HMAS SYDNEY Crews and Associates but especially for the HMAS SYDNEY II Descendants and Relatives.  Download full details.....
01 Nov 2019	Communities salute service men and women PROJECTS right across the country commemorating Australia’s wartime heritage will be funded thanks to more than $265,000 in Saluting Their Service grants.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the Saluting Their Service Commemorations Program encourages an understanding and appreciation of the role that service personnel have played in shaping Australia as we know it today.  More.....
29 Oct 2019	Increased veteran satisfaction with DVA services Results from the fundamental changes made to the way the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) is delivering services to veterans and their families, are evident in this year's Client Satisfaction Survey findings.  More than 3,000 randomly selected DVA clients, including veterans, war widows and widowers, carers and dependants, were surveyed by ORIMA — an independent market research company — and found an overall satisfaction rating of 84 per cent for DVA services.  More.....
26 Oct 2019	Australian Defence Veterans' Covenant The Australian Defence Veterans’ Covenant serves to recognise and acknowledge the unique nature of military service and the contribution of veterans and their families. The Covenant is supported by the Veterans’ Recognition Program, which includes the Veteran Card, lapel pin and oath.  These provide the opportunity for Australians to identify veterans when they are not in uniform or wearing their medals, and offer respect to them and their family.  Legislation enabling the Covenant passed Parliament on 22 October 2019.  Distribution of Covenant packs to those who have already applied, including the oath and pin, can now begin.  More.....
25 Oct 2019	Transformation of support for Reservists A new advisory body will be established to enhance Australian Defence Force (ADF) capability.  The existing Defence Reserves Support Council (DRSC), which has provided strong support to employers and reservists for the past 42 years, will be dissolved at the end of 2019, making way for a new phase in the management of ADF Reserves by providing links to industry and employers, as well as advice and recommendations to the Chief of the Defence Force.  More.....
24 Oct 2019	Petition to the House of Representatives To the Honourable the Speaker and Members of the House of Representatives Assembled in Parliament This petition by former members of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), citizens of Australia, draws to the attention of the House that: Service performed by former members of the RAN, serving in HMA Ships during the Vietnam War, 1965-1972, were exposed to carcinogenic dioxins when contaminated riverine water was distilled to produce potable water which was supposedly fit for human consumption. It has since been proven that this was not the case. There are seven diseases accepted by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) which reflect this concern, yet there are still a number of diseases where the DVA do not accept the following Factor: ‘that must as a minimum exist before it can be said that a reasonable hypothesis has been raised connecting (specific disease) with the circumstances of a person’s relevant service is:      (i) On land in Vietnam      (ii) At sea in Vietnamese waters, or      (iii) On board a vessel and consuming potable water supplied on that vessel when the water supply had been produced by evaporative distillation of estuarine waters for a cumulative period of at least thirty days, at least five years before the clinical onset of (specific disease).’ Your petitioners therefore request the House to: Refer the true circumstances of the above service in Vietnam - and Vietnamese waters - to the Minister concerned, with a recommendation that the following diseases have the Factor quoted inserted into the Statements of Principles (SOP) for      1. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia      2. Type 2 Diabetes      3. Ischemic Heart Disease      4. Parkinson’s Disease      5. Hypothyroidism On behalf of the surviving 350+ members of the HMAS Sydney & VLSV Assoc. (Inc Vic). Dr. John R Carroll 4 Loch Street Ferntree Gully VIC 3156 Email: Ph: 03 9758 2991; Mobile 0417 126 658 NB: I have attempted to keep within the 250 word limit which I found impossible to achieve when one makes direct quotation of the specific ‘Factor’ cited above. 23rd October 2019
22 Oct 2019	Greater recognition for veterans and their families Members of the community will be able to better recognise the unique nature of military service and further acknowledge the service and sacrifice of veterans and their families through legislation that passed Parliament today.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the Government’s Australian Veterans’ Recognition (Putting Veterans and their Families First) Bill 2019 establishes the Australian Defence Veterans’ Covenant, which provides a formal way for all Australians to show their appreciation to our current and former Australian Defence Force personnel, and to the families who have supported them.  More.....
10 Oct 2019	UPDATE - New Time Sydney III Plaque Dedication. HMAS Sydney 1 Plaque - This will be the site for the rededication of Sydney 2 and the dedication of the new Sydney 3 Plaque.  Our President Dr. John Carroll has been in frequent communication to have the following carried out. 1. Repair the SYDNEY 2 Plaque. 2. SYDNEY 1 & 2 plaques to be located together under the one tree. 3. A plaque produced to the memory of SYDNEY 3. All three requests were met, after some strenuous lobbying by John, who deserves a well earned BZ. The SYDNEY 3 Plaque will be dedicated, at the now named SYDNEY Tree (F24) . The dedication service details are below. Date: Sunday 17 November 2019. Time: 1230 for 1300. Dress: As appropriate for a service of this kind. Full Size Medals: To be worn. We ask you to please make every effort to attend, as we are holding the service on a Sunday, for your convenience. Please note: For 2019 only, this service will also include the Memorial service, for the loss of SYDNEY 2, usually held on the 19th of November. Memorial Plaque map.....
25 Sep 2019	The Merchant Navy War Memorial Fund (MNWMF) National Fund-Raising Appeal The MNWMF is seeking donations for construction of new works to the Merchant Navy War Memorial, Kings Park Canberra that will see the installation of the names of Australian Merchant Mariners that sacrificed their lives for their country in WWI (184) & WWII (678).  Download flyer.....
25 Sep 2019	VetRok 2019 - Two Day Music Event VetRok 2019 will be held on the 7th and 8th of December at Lardner Park, Warragul, Victoria.  This year, we have expanded the event to cover a full weekend of music and entertainment from some of the best bands, performers and artists in Australia.  We will also have stalls, merchandise, food and drinks, a licenced bar, a bike show and other activities for you and the family to enjoy.  Download flyer.....
25 Sep 2019	Government seeks input into mental health and wellbeing strategy and national action plan Veterans, their families, and the broader ex-service community are being asked to help shape the Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy and National Action Plan as public consultation opens today.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester is encouraging those in the community to have their say and provide their ideas on how the Government can improve veterans’ mental health and wellbeing.  More.....
20 Sep 2019	Veteran pensions set to increase Veteran pension payments will increase in September in line with the biannual indexation process.  Pension recipients including veterans, their partners, war widows and widowers across Australia will see the increase from 20 September 2019.  Due to the calculation of pension rates on a daily basis, the first pension paid after the indexation on payday 26 September 2019 will comprise a component of both the old and new rates.  More.....
20 Sep 2019	Partner Service Pensions — eligibility changes for former partners from 20 September 2019 DVA recognises that partners provide invaluable care and support for veterans and their families.  Unfortunately, there are times when these important relationships break down.  Recent changes to Partner Service Pension (PSP) eligibility support partners of veterans who find themselves at the end of their relationships.  More.....
17 Sep 2019	More support to former partners of veterans All recipients of the Partner Service Pension through the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) will now maintain access for at least 12 months after separating from their veteran partner, regardless of their marital status, under legislative changes passed through Parliament today.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the Government continues to put veterans and their families first and is providing $6.2 million to support changes to the Partner Service Pension, which previously only allowed access to current partners, and married partners after they had separated from a veteran.  More.....
17 Sep 2019	Sydney goes to sea The Navy’s latest and most exciting addition to the Fleet has set sail for the first time and is currently conducting Builder’s Sea Trials in South Australia.  This marks the first major step for NUSHIP Sydney and its crew in becoming a highly effective warfighting unit, capable of the full spectrum of naval operations.  More.....
17 Sep 2019	Life on the Line - Podcast Life on the Line tracks down Australian war veterans and records their stories. Life on the Sea is a special miniseries of this podcast, interviewing Royal Australian Navy veterans of the Korean and Vietnam wars. Episode I - Korea Episode II - Beginnings Episode III - Vietnam Episode IV - Collision Episode V - Combat Episode VI - Career Episode VII - Reflections Trailer - Life on the Sea
11 Sep 2019	Australia supports the recovery of Vietnamese war remains As part of the ongoing cooperation between Australia and Vietnam, the Department of Defence has presented the Vietnamese Deputy Minister for Defence, Senior Lieutenant General Le Chiem with a digital database of Missing in Action data.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said Australia understands the importance of honouring those who have died in war.  More.....
07 Sep 2019	Deeming rate changes now benefiting Income Support recipients On 14 July 2019, the Government announced reductions to deeming rates, with the changes backdated to 1 July 2019. Deeming is the method the government uses to estimate income from financial assets. It can affect how recipients of income support payments, such as Age Pension and Service Pension, have their financial investments assessed for means testing purposes. Lowering the deeming rates means that income support recipients with financial investments, whose payments are reduced by deeming, will be financially better off. The new rates are: Lower rate: 1.0% (previously 1.75%) Higher rate: 3.0% (previously 3.25%) The low rate is used for financial investments up to $51,800 for single pensioners, and $86,200 for pensioner couples. The higher rate is used for balances over these amounts. DVA Factsheets listing deeming rates will be updated to reflect the new rates on 20 September 2019. Many income support recipients affected by deeming have already had their payment amount reassessed, with the remaining reassessments to be completed by the end of September 2019.
05 Sep 2019	Funding for organisations to support our veteran community Veterans and their families across Australia will be better supported thanks to more than $875,000 in community grants aimed at improving veteran health and wellbeing.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said 68 projects will receive funding under the Veteran and Community Grants (V&CG) and Men’s Health Peer Education (MHPE) programs.  More.....
03 Sep 2019	New Member ex-WOSN Jeff Schultz, Vietnam veteran, HMAS Sydney 1965-1966.  Welcome aboard Jeff.
30 Aug 2019	HMAS Sydney Bi-Monthly Newsletter September 2019 is now available to download.....
25 Aug 2019	VALE POSV Peter Ashton It is with great sadness we inform you of the passing of Peter Ashton.  Peter passed away on 31 July 2019 after his 80th birthday.  The President and committee on behalf of the membership extend their sincere condolences to his wife Mel and family.  A plaque has been placed on our memorial wall in the Chapel.  P.G. ASHTON 31 JUL 2019
24 Aug 2019	Joint communiqué — Veterans Ministerial Council Veteran wellbeing, mental health, homelessness and transition have been the focus of a meeting between federal, state and territory Ministers in Canberra today.  The Veterans Ministerial Council provides an opportunity for ministers responsible for veterans issues from across Australia to come together to discuss how different levels of government can collaborate to support veterans and their families.  More.....
21 Aug 2019	Younger Veterans' Mental Health Grants Projects focused on mental health support for younger veterans will be prioritised in the next round of the Supporting Younger Veterans grants program.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the Supporting Younger Veterans grants help younger veterans and their families as they leave the Australian Defence Force and transition into civilian life.  More.....
20 Aug 2019	Australian Defence Force Retirees Association https://www.adfra.org DFRDB UPDATE - JULY 2019 Hi All, Most of you will aware that the Commonwealth Ombudsman’s investigation into the administration of the DFRDB scheme with respect to commutation is in progress. But we are not waiting idly for the outcome.  More.....
17 Aug 2019	Vietnam Veterans' legacy remembered Tomorrow Australians across the country are encouraged to commemorate the service of all those who served in the Vietnam War and the Battle of Long Tan.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said Australians should pause and reflect on the bravery, teamwork and endurance that was displayed throughout the battle and wider war.  More.....
15 Aug 2019	New Member LEUT Peter Moore RAN Rtd., Vietnam veteran served in HMAS Sydney 1971-1972.  Welcome aboard Peter.
14 Aug 2019	Honouring women’s contribution to our defence Women and families from across Australia whose lives have been impacted as a result of Defence service have tonight come together at the Honouring Women United by Defence Service (HWUDS) dinner in Canberra.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the HWUDS dinner seeks to acknowledge and honour all those women and their families united by service with the Australian Defence Force (ADF).  More.....
14 Aug 2019	Defence launches new Reconciliation Action Plan THE Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester today launched the fourth Defence Reconciliation Action Plan.  Mr Chester said the Defence Reconciliation Action Plan (D-RAP) 2019-2022 outlines Defence’s commitment to reconciliation and aligns with the Whole of Government ‘Closing the Gap’ strategy.  More.....
12 Aug 2019	Australian Defence Force Retirees Association REDRESS OF DFRDB PENSION INJUSTICE FOR FORMER ADF PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PURPOSE 1. DFRDB Pensioners and their spouses exceed 50,000; many are old and domiciled in nursing homes. They have been subjected to harsh and unconscionable treatment by the Commonwealth Government. Their vulnerability, limited bargaining power, trust and lack of representation has been exploited.  Download document.....
12 Aug 2019	Naval Association of Australia - President's monthly newsletter 8/2019
10 Aug 2019	Improved Dental and Allied Health (for clients) Overview The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) wants its dental and allied health service arrangements to continue meeting the needs of veterans and their families. For this reason, DVA is making changes to strengthen the quality of allied health care. From October 2019, this will include increasing general practitioner (GP) involvement in treatment. The aim is to make sure that clients get the clinically necessary allied health treatment that they need. As a DVA cardholder, your need for allied health care will be determined by your GP in consultation with you.  More.....
09 Aug 2019	‘In the Navy’ songwriter dead at 82 Henri Belolo, who co-founded Village People and co-wrote their classic hits “YMCA,” ''Macho Man" and “In the Navy,” has died. He was 82.  Scorpio Music, founded by Belolo, announced on Wednesday that Belolo died Saturday. No details about the death were provided.  More.....
07 Aug 2019	Max Montague's Models on Display at Seaworks The Seaworks Maritime Discovery Centre Invite you to the opening of our permanent exhibition dedicated to The Royal Australian Navy through its historic link with Williamstown and the H.M.A. Naval Dockyard Williamstown. The opening will be at The Seaworks Maritime Discovery Centre 82 Nelson Place Williamstown on Sunday 25 th August commencing at 1pm.  Download flyer.....
04 Aug 2019	BRAVO ZULU - Vol. I & II Good afternoon David, As one who has consistently taken every opportunity to interest Australians in their naval history, I am delighted to note that the Naval Association also has the goal of representing the RAN in the wider community. While this is not as difficult as it may seem at first, one does need to have one’s facts straight. So, let me ask the question; how confident are you and your membership that you can access reliable sources on our naval history to deliver on this goal? With ten books on the subject to my name, I used to think that I had a pretty good grasp on Australia’s naval history. It was not until the team of researchers I led had delivered the two volumes of Bravo Zulu: Honours and Awards to Australian Naval People 1900-2014 to the publisher that I realised that I had just been skimming the surface. It was our people who created and grew our Navy from its humble beginnings to the internationally-admired force it is today, and the individual stories in Bravo Zulu will tell you how that was done. The background to the Vietnam awards made before 2014 are contained in Volume 1. We also attached them to a framework that set them in the context of the times, and provided the historical background to the deeds described. To an organisation like yours which seeks to maintain the Navy’s ’…legacy of past service and sacrifice’, Bravo Zulu would be an invaluable reference. Both volumes have been well-received by the public and the RAN, and I’m about to place an order for the fourth print run. A visit to my website will provide more detail on what this two-volume series contains and, I would be pleased to answer any questions that you or your members might have about these books. Please pass on my congratulations to your President on achieving his doctorate. All the best, Ian Pfennigwerth Naval Historian https://www.nautilushistory.com.au/ BravoZulu - What readers say.....
02 Aug 2019	Support for military families in coping with trauma Families of serving, transitioning, or ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) who are experiencing mental health concerns following trauma now have a new resource to help them.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said families play a critical role supporting current and former ADF members and it is vital they are supported themselves.  More.....
01 Aug 2019	Leopold War Memorial receives Armistice grant The Leopold War Memorial will receive a $30,000 Federal Government grant.  The grant has been provided through the Armistice Centenary Grants Program (ACGP) which has delivered $7.2 million over two years to local and community-based projects around Australia that commemorate the end of the First World War, the Centenary of Armistice and the celebration of peace.  More.....
25 Jul 2019	ADF members awarded Meritorious Unit Citation 25 years on from Rwandan humanitarian crisis Australian Service Contingents 1 and 2 who served in Rwanda on Operation Tamar were today recognised with the award of a Meritorious Unit Citation.  Operation Tamar was Australia’s contribution to the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda, which consisted of sending approximately 700 Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel in two contingents to provide medical support and security for the medics.  More.....
23 Jul 2019	SUBMARINE ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA NSW Extends an invitation to all AE1 Descendent Family Members to attend a Memorial Service for AE1 and her Crew at Sub Base Platypus, Kiara Close, North Sydney, (off Kedron Park) on Saturday September 14th at 9.30 AM Full details.....
23 Jul 2019	DFRDB UPDATE - JULY 2019 Most of you will aware that the Commonwealth Ombudsman’s investigation into the administration of the DFRDB scheme with respect to commutation is in progress.  But we are not waiting idly for the outcome.  More.....
20 Jul 2019	Seven unknown WWI soldiers commemorated with new headstones following identification Seven First World War soldiers who died during the Battle of Fromelles in 1916, previously buried as unknown soldiers, have received new headstones following their formal identification by the 2019 Fromelles Identification Board.  The Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the headstone dedication ceremony at the Commonwealth War Graves Commonwealth Commission Fromelles (Pheasant Wood) Cemetery was important to recognise the sacrifice of the seven men.  More.....
17 Jul 2019	VALE John (Shorty) Morris It is with great sadness we inform you of the passing of John Morris.  'Shorty' passed away on 17 July 2019.  The President and committee on behalf of the membership extend their sincere condolences to his wife and family.  A plaque has been placed on our memorial wall in the Chapel.  J.P. MORRIS 17 JUL 2019
10 Jul 2019	VALE Keith (Gus) Chandler It is with great sadness we inform you of the passing of Keith (Gus) Chandler.  'Gus' passed away on 07 July 2019 following a heart operation.  The President and committee on behalf of the membership extend their sincere condolences to his wife Robyn and family.  A plaque has been placed on our memorial wall in the Chapel.  K.M. CHANDLER 07 JUL 2019
08 Jul 2019	Mental health and suicide prevention a welcome national priority Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester today welcomed the appointment of Christine Morgan as the new National Suicide Prevention Adviser.  Ms Morgan, appointed by the Prime Minister the Hon Scott Morrison MP, will drive a whole-of-government approach to suicide prevention, while ensuring prevention services reach the communities that need them.   More.....
07 Jul 2019	Gold Card targeted in Productivity Commission report on veteran support The Productivity Commissions report into “A better way to Support Veterans” has been released.  Among its key findings (below), is a suggestion that the Gold Card runs counter to a number of the key principles that should underlie any future veteran-support scheme.  The Commission found that the Gold Card was not wellness-focused or needs-based, and could be inefficient – encouraging over-servicing.  More.....
07 Jul 2019	Addendum to President's Report 2/2019 is available to download.....
01 Jul 2019	Minister welcomes support for veterans from Governor General Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester has welcomed the focus on Australian veterans during the swearing in of the nation’s 27th Governor General, David Hurley.  Mr Chester said both Mr Hurley and Prime Minister Scott Morrison took the official swearing-in ceremony as an opportunity to acknowledge Australia’s veterans and pay tribute to their sacrifice.  More.....
01 Jul 2019	Making it easier for veterans to access support Improvements to how veterans and their families access services and support will continue with funding committed for the ongoing transformation of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) secured until 2021.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said improvements made to-date meant that veterans and their families, in many cases, are now able to get almost immediate decisions on claims through DVA’s online platform, MyService.   More.....
30 Jul 2019	MEMBERS Nominations for the 2019-2020 Committee are now being called.  All Committee positions become Vacant at the AGM. All Nominations must be signed by the person nominated, counter signed, by two financial Members and received by the Secretary no later than the 21st of July 2019. All persons nominated must be a full financial Member. Caveat: As a Committee Member, you must be willing to perform duties as requested and attend Committee Meetings. AGM Date:  Sunday 15 September 2019. Time:  1100 for 1130 Venue:  Naval Memorial Club, 36 Barretts Rd Langwarrin Sth. Luncheon (approximately 1230):  Will be provided free of charge to financial Members. Spouses/Girlfriends/Boyfriends/Friends:  $20.00 ea. Children:  12 and under, Free of Charge. 13 - 16 years:  $10.00. Chef of the Day:  Member John Bobrowski Bar:  Will be closed during the meeting Annual Subs ($25.00) are due on the 1st of July, you may pay at the AGM. Please make every effort to attend, as we have moved the AGM to an afternoon, so as to allow you to drive in the daylight hours and get home in time for your afternoon Nanna Nap. Can I suggest should you wish to buy any Association Rabbits, please email me and I will bring them to the AGM for Collection and Payment.  All rabbits are on view in the clothing store on our website: https://hmassydney.com/clothing/clothing_store.html
29 Jun 2019	Summer Mess Jacket Ian Arnold is after a Chief's summer Mess Jacket. Full details in the Scran Bag......
29 Jun 2019	President's Report - The President's 2/2019 report is now available to download.....
27 Jun 2019	Veteran Treatment Cycle initiative "The health and wellbeing of veterans and their families is a high priority for the Morrison Government.  We have listened to feedback from health professionals who deliver care to the veteran community about the need for more support to accompany the changes to allied health referrals, scheduled to start on 1 July.  The changes will now begin on 1 October, 2019 to provide more time for the Department of Veterans' Affairs to meet with stakeholders.  More.....
26 Jun 2019	Commonwealth Ombudsman - DFRDB Questionnaire Overview Please note we are only investigating what information people were provided with in relation to commuting a portion of their pension. We will not be considering issues relating to indexation of the DFRDB, or any other aspects of the scheme as it was established by the Parliament.  We ask that you confine your response to information that you received about commutation. If there are questions you cannot answer, you can still provide whatever information you are able.  If you have copies of documents that you were provided, please submit these along with your completed form. We are asking for some personal information, however we will only use your service information to see if there are trends about where information was provided to ADF members.  We will only use your contact information to acknowledge receipt of your submission, or to contact you to seek clarification of any information if required.  You do not need to provide your personal information, but we will not be able to contact you if you do not. Our preferred method of receiving this form is via email: DFRDB.investigation@ombudsman.gov.au.  If, due to the size of the documents you wish to provide you are unable to send using email, please contact us at DFRDB.investigation@ombudsman.gov.au for assistance.  If you require assistance to access and/or complete this form, please contact us on 1300 362 072. Submissions will close on 30 June 2019. The Ombudsman investigates in private and therefore submissions will not be published. The Questionnaire is fillable.  Download Questionnaire
21 Jun 2019	Free annual health checks for personnel leaving defence force FROM 1 July 2019, all Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel leaving full-time service can access a fully-funded comprehensive health check from a GP every year for the first five years.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester today announced the expanded Veteran Health Checks that will help optimise the physical and mental health and wellbeing of veterans in the years following transition from the ADF.  More.....
19 Jun 2019	More than 75,000 veterans using DVA online services MORE than 75,000 veterans are now accessing assistance through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) online claiming platform, MyService.  The Department is currently undergoing the most significant reform in its history, to ensure veterans and their families have faster and easier access to the services they need, when they need them.  More.....
18 Jun 2019	Veterans’ Health Week to focus on mental health Supporting the mental health and wellbeing of veterans will be the key focus for this years’ Veterans’ Health Week to be held from 26 October to 3 November 2019.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel, Darren Chester said “We are providing $200,000 in grants to assist community groups and ex-service organisations to put on events promoting health and wellbeing for veterans and their families".  More.....
17 Jun 2019	New Member Ex Leading Butcher Lindsay Doust, served in HMAS Sydney during the Korean conflict.  Lindsay will be nominated for Life Membership as he is an 88 year old Korea Veteran.  Welcome aboard Lindsay.
14 Jun 2019	Warrior Games 2019 A team of 24 competitors from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and Veteran Sport Australia (VSA) will compete at the 2019 Warrior Games in the United States (US) this month.  Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester said getting to the 2019 Warrior Games was an important milestone and significant achievement for the team, comprising 12 current and 12 ex-serving, wounded, injured and ill personnel.  More.....
12 Jun 2019	New National President for the RSL appointed The ex-service community will benefit from the wealth of public and private sector experience of its new Returned and Services Leagues of Australia (RSL) National President Major General Greg Melick AO RFD FANZCN SC.  Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester congratulated Major General Melick on his appointment and looked forward to continuing the important relationship with the RSL to provide support for veterans and their families.  More.....
03 Jun 2019	ATO Changing the Law in the middle of court case to disadvantageVeterans on Invalidity Benefits (DFRDB and MSBS) 2 Injured veterans battling the ATO in court, found out that Government bureaucrats will just change and backdate laws to win their case. And the responsible minister will rubber stamp it. If this is happening to veterans, it will happen to anyone. Veterans medically discharged from the ADF, including those with mental wounds and at risk of self-harm, may receive Disability Benefit payments from the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC) which manages the military superannuation schemes. These benefits are similar to those of Total and Permanent Disability insurance benefits associated with civilian superannuation schemes. Benefit payments are reviewed up to age 55 years and can go up and down between CLASS A (about 70% of previous salary), Class B (half Class A) and Class C (0%). They are not lifetime pensions. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) taxes the Disability Benefits as ordinary income treating the payments as a non-variable “Income Stream” rather than as a super fund disability benefit which can attract a lower tax rate. The Veterans’ Question. The Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Regulations (SISR) 1994 Reg1.06 defines criteria to determine the legal nature of payments. If the payments do not meet all the criteria as a pension, by default, they can end up being classed as lump sum disability benefits. For over 5 years, Veterans have requested CSC and the ATO to answer the question, “Which specific criteria in SISR 1.06 are being applied to define our payments?” It is a basic right of all Australians to know what law is being applied to their situation. The ATO Breach of Taxpayers Charter and Model Litigant Principles Both CSC and ATO have used every dodgy practice in the book to avoid answering this question. At times, each claimed the other was responsible. Since 2015, Private Ruling requests (requiring answers within 28 days) were unanswered for over 18 months. Then ATO encouraged the Veterans to change their Private Ruling requests and utilize a “loophole” in law to reduce tax thereby effectively cancelling their original Private Ruling requests on SISR 1.06. The faceless bureaucrats deliberately and callously did not inform the Veterans that the offered “loophole” was closing and the extra cash would cease. Some Veterans and their families suffered from financial over commitment as a result. In response to a Senate Estimates hearing question on notice, faceless bureaucrats even got away with a classic “Yes Minister “answer. A Chance for the Rule of Law. In May/Jun 2018, three veterans got the ATO to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). On 1 June 2018, one of the points the ATO was arguing developed a “fatal flaw”. The ATO Senior Counsel requested a lengthy adjournment to assess the possible wide implications of the deficiency. Justice Logan reluctantly granted an adjournment until 12 December 2018 and stated he was concerned the ATO may attempt to introduce retrospective changes to the law to overcome the legal flaw in this particular ATO argument. The Faceless Bureaucrats Strike. The faceless bureaucrats of ATO and Treasury immediately started working on a fix. On 7 December 2018, the Assistant Treasurer issued a Media Statement announcing several changes to taxation related Regulations. Usually, retrospective changes to Regulations come into effect from the date of tabling, but do not effect the rights of citizens to their disadvantage. After a defined period of time, the changes become law unless either House of parliament passes a Disallowance Motion. In this case, the Australian Government Solicitor (AGS) and the ATO advised the Veterans that the changes, backdated to 2007, would affect their cases before the AAT. Due to limited sitting times and the election, there has been no time for a Disallowance Motion – yet. The Faceless Bureaucrats Strike Again. The Explanatory Statement informing Parliament hides the relevant change amongst innocuous changes to four other different Regulations and refers to the miscellaneous changes as a tidy up exercise, however: For other retrospective changes, it states the start of the changes does ���not affect a relevant person’s rights so as to disadvantage the person or impose a relevant liability on that person.” (The principle.) No such statement was made regarding retrospective changes affecting the Veterans. It implies it is just a minor tidy up exercise. (Deception).There is no mention that the retrospective change takes away a person’s rights so as to disadvantage that person in the middle of a court case. (Falsehood by Omission.) There is no mention that the Judge expressed concern that the ATO may try to change the law so that it affects the cases being heard. The statement claims, “The Regulations were released for public consultation from 22 October 2018 to 2 November 2018.” The public record indicates no such consultation was made for the specific change to Regulations affecting the Veteran cases before the courts. The statement is false. Hearing Resumes 12 December 2018 The Hearing was advised that the AGS and ATO legal teams dealing with this case were only made aware of the changes and backdating on 7 December. (Some public consultation?). Justice Logan gave directions for the ATO to inform the Veterans on the impacts and set a timetable for further submissions to be made. DFWA Representation (7 February and 11 March 2019 and the Minister’s Response (Received 16 April) In response to DFWA representations, Stuart Robert, the Assistant Treasurer, denied the changes were targeted at the veterans (FOI evidence says otherwise). The reply did not address the false claim of public consultation nor the Judge’s concern of the ATO action. It did not address the legal principle raised by DFWA of not changing laws to disadvantage the person or impose a relevant liability on that person in the middle of a court case, as per the Explanatory Note issued with the changes. It did thank Veterans for their service, presumably for protecting democratic principles and rule of law.
03 Jun 2019	VALE Tony (Blue) Quinn It is with great sadness we inform you of the passing of Tony (Blue) Quinn.  Blue passed away on 01 June 2019.  The President and committee on behalf of the membership extend their sincere condolences to his family.  A plaque has been placed on our memorial wall in the Chapel. A.J. QUINN 01 JUN 2019 The service to celebrate the Life of Blue Quinn, will be held at the Naval Memorial Club 36 Barretts Rd. Langwarrin South. Date:  Thursday 13 June 2019 Time:  1300 Medals:  Full Size
30 May 2019	Singapore first port of call for new Defence Minister It is both an honour and a privilege to be appointed by Prime Minister Scott Morrison as Australia’s Minister for Defence.  Having served for over two decades as an Army Officer before my election to the Senate, I know there is no greater constitutional responsibility for any Australian Government than the defence and security of our nation.  My key priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that our greatest asset – our men and women across Defence – receive the support, training and resources necessary to succeed in their mission to defend Australia and its national interests.  More.....
26 May 2019	Chester Reappointed as Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Re-appointed Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester says a mental health summit, transitioning Australian Defence Force (ADF) members to civilian employment and continuing the transformation of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) will be his highest priorities in the first 100 days back in the role.  Mr Chester, who will continue to have responsibility for both Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, said he was confident the government was heading in the right direction but acknowledged “there’s more work to be done”.  More.....
22 May 2019	Commonwealth Ombudsman's Inquiry into the administration of the DFRDB scheme The Commonwealth Ombudsman, has decided to commence an investigation into the administration of the DFRDB scheme with respect to commutation. Please refer to the Ombudsman’s Letter (click to open). The scope of this investigation is limited to the accuracy of information provided by scheme administrators and relevant departments to DFRDB scheme members, in relation to commutation. The Ombudsman has provided a Questionnaire (click to open). I encourage you to complete and email it to DFRDB.investigation@ombudsman.gov.au. The Ombudsman doesn’t give a time-line but I’ll endeavour to establish what it is. I suggest you get your submission in sooner rather than later. The new (or perhaps the same) Minister will undoubtedly pass this off as the Inquiry he announced, making a nonsense of his statement: “The Government recognises the importance of open and transparent discussion around veteran concerns and we will consult with the ex-service community about the terms of reference for the inquiry, as well as panel membership.”
20 May 2019	The 80th Anniversary of the SYDNEY II loss 19th Nov 2021 in Geraldton From:  Adrian Burns (Radar) Lead Contact and Liaison HMAS Sydney II 80th Anniversary 2021 We are looking at an all ranks, all rates, mass gathering of all ex-HMAS SYDNEY crews regardless of which SYDNEY one served on; era; deployment or year. I’ve been working behind the scenes with a lot of very experienced and senior ex-SYDNEY crew members along with the Greater City of Geraldton Teams and external associates to bring this idea to bear. The current plan is to have a meet and greet at the Port Kennedy RSL WA (Ex-HMAS SYDNEY Crews Only) on Monday the 15th Nov 2021; date TBC, and thereafter all parties head up to Geraldton for the memorial anniversary. A meet and greet may also be planned for Geraldton but TBC. With the commissioning of the new Sydney V next year we have a one off opportunity to have 3 generations of HMAS SYDNEY’s together in the one place at the same time to commemorate the loss of the SYDNEY II. I shall keep it brief and will advise more details, ie: Event website registration Port Kennedy WA RSL, Greater City Geraldton website etc. as we progress along with the idea, plans, and the possible inclusion of SYDNEY V. I have made contact with the current President of the HMAS SYDNEY Association in WA (Harvey Dennison) for which RADM MARK BONSER AO,CSC RAN Rtd is the patron.  I anticipate to receive his full support behind this idea and plan to meet with him at the first available opportunity.  Thanks to all for their kind support thus far and I look forward with working and updating numerous groups to bring this special project to fruition. The following list of Contacts, Supporting Groups, Associations and Individuals have given their full backing/support for the idea along with their valuable assistance, guidance and knowledge. Greater City of Geraldton Events Coordinator and her team (Joanne Panter) Current HMAS SYDNEY II Memorial Warden (Don Rolston) Geraldton RSL President/Secretary (Steve Fletcher & April Herbert) Geraldton Voluntary Tour Guides Association (Mary I’Anson and Trevor Ralph) Geraldton TS Morrow (Peter “Spike” Jones) Finding SYDNEY Foundation CDRE Bob Trotter OAM RAN Rtd HMAS SYDNEY & VLSVA (Vic) Life Member Marty Grogan OAM Life Member David (“Speed”) Dwyer and Secretary OAM Ex HMAS SYDNEY III Vic Boreham BM, OAM (based in Perth) HMAS SYDNEY Association (Syd) President Barry Brooks, Secretary Brian Yeo Naval Association of Australian – National President CMDR Terry Makings AM RAN Rtd HMAS SYDNEY Association, ACT Secretary - LCDR Peter Schilling RAN Rtd. Yours Aye Adrian Burns (Radar)
20 May 2019	New Member ex-POSN Adrian John Burns (Radar), R128113, has joined our association. Radar joined the Navy on 12th November 1979 and discharged 12th August 2000 after completing 6 months long service leave 3 months short of 21years.  He was on the Sydney IV as an LS(V) from 26 February 1990 and posted off on promotion to POSV in June 1991.  With the amalgamation of Victuallers and Cooks he changed over to SN.  Welcome aboard Radar.
14 May 2019	MEMBERS, THIS IS URGENT: I have not been able to promote the Annual Association Remembrance Service for the Sailors who made the Supreme Sacrifice in the Vietnam War and I ask you to please consider attending, I realise this is very short notice. A brief Service will be held at the Clubs Wall of Remembrance, to be followed by Luncheon, also entertainment and the big Raffle.  Raffle tickets will be $10.00 each (Unlimited).  This is our main fund raiser for the year.  We will again be hosting the South Vietnamese Veterans. Date:  Sunday 26 May Time:  1100 for 1130 Venue:  Naval Memorial Club 36 Barretts Rd Langwarrin South. Cost:  $30.00 Per person, Children 12 and under 12 no charge. PAY ON THE DAY Dress:  Neat Casual Medals:  to be worn. RSVP Date:  No Later than Tuesday 21st May. PLEASE NOTE:  if you cancel after the 21st of May, I must ask for payment, as the Caterer will be paid on this date. David Speed Dwyer Email:  Mob:  0423 675 146 Tel:  9720 8183
12 May 2019	Sydney III Plaque Dedication. HMAS Sydney 1 Plaque - This will be the site for the rededication of Sydney 2 and the dedication of the new Sydney 3 Plaque.   Our President Dr. John Carroll has been in frequent communication to have the following carried out. 1. Repair the SYDNEY 2 Plaque. 2. SYDNEY 1 & 2 plaques to be located together under the one tree. 3. A plaque produced to the memory of SYDNEY 3. All three requests were met, after some strenuous lobbying by John, who deserves a well earned BZ. The SYDNEY 3 Plaque will be dedicated, at the now named SYDNEY Tree (F24) . The dedication service details are below. Date: Sunday 17 November 2019. Time: 1130 for 1200. Dress: As appropriate for a service of this kind. Full Size Medals: To be worn. We ask you to please make every effort to attend, as we are holding the service on a Sunday, for your convenience. Please note: For 2019 only, this service will also include the Memorial service, for the loss of SYDNEY 2, usually held on the 19th of November. Memorial Plaque map.....
12 May 2019	Naval Association of Australia Letter The May 2019 Naval Association of Australia National President's letter to shipmates may be accessed by going to the following link:  https://navalassoc.org.au/sites/default/files/documents/05%20Letter%20to%20Members%20MAY19.pdf
02 May 2019	Notices of Investigation which were approved at the April RMA meeting. Advice of Investigation - stakeholders - multiple conditions..... Notice of Investigation: Cervical Spondylosis -focussed - forces on neck..... Osteoarthritis - focussed - definition..... Chronic multisymptom illness..... Osteonecrosis..... LA investigations.....
02 May 2019	Statements of Principles approved at the April RMA meeting  which have been registered by the Federal Register of Legislation. Outcome advice..... Schedule of completed investigations.....
18 Apr 2019	VALE Alexander Roy 'Guns' Gunning It is with great sadness we inform you of the passing of life member Roy 'Guns' Gunning.  Roy passed away peacefully on Wednesday 17th April 2019.  The President and committee on behalf of the membership extend their sincere condolences to his wife Sue and family.  A plaque has been placed on our memorial wall in the Chapel. A.R. GUNNING 17 APRIL 2019
16 Apr 2019	The President and Victorian Committee members request the pleasure of your company at the Reservists Reunion Lunch to be held in the: Pavilion Function Room, Level 2, RACV Club, 501 Bourke Street, Melbourne on Wednesday, 5 June 2019 (12 noon for 12.30pm) Dress: Jacket and Tie RSVP: Wednesday 29 May 2019 Medals and Decorations (preferred) Guests most welcome Invitation and booking details.....
16 Apr 2019	Change to April 2019 DVA Pension payday As the April 2019 DVA Pension payday falls on Anzac Day, this payday has been moved to Wednesday, 24 April 2019.  The stand-alone change comes after the 20 March 2019 announcement by Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester, that the first annual increase of Veterans’ pensions and allowances was fully effective as of pension payday on 11 April 2019. More information and the new fortnightly available rates are available on the CLIK web site
08 Apr 2019	President's Report - The President's 1/2019 report is now available to download.....
04 Apr 2019	New research provides deeper look at serving and ex-serving community THREE major reports from the Transition and Wellbeing Research Programme were today released, providing the Departments of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), and the broader health community, a better understanding of the health concerns of current and former Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel.  More.....
03 Apr  2019	Budget puts veterans and their families first Australian veterans and their families will continue to see an improvement in support and services with $11.5 billion in funding allocated in the 2019–20 Budget.  This funding represents an overall increase of $300 million allocated to the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) in 2019–20 compared with 2018–19 to support our veterans and their families.  More.....
01 Apr 2019	Computer-based trial designed to assist veterans leaving the military Computer-based tasks will form the basis of a trial program to assist Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel as they transition from military to civilian life, Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester said today.  "The Stepping Out: Attention Reset (SOAR) trial is designed to test whether a brief attention training computer task improves adjustment to civilian life and may reduce the risk for mental health disorders," Mr Chester said.  More.....
01 Apr 2019	Council of the Australian War Memorial appointments Former Australian Defence Force members Sharon Bown and Daniel Keighran VC have both been re-appointed to the Council of the Australian War Memorial for three year terms.  Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester said the re-appointments were important for providing stability and continuity to the Council as it navigates the first stage of its $500 million redevelopment.  More.....
31 Mar 2019	Remembrance Bridge opens ahead of Anzac Day HOBART locals and visitors will have easier and safer access to the commemorative precinct in Hobart with the opening of the Remembrance Bridge today, less than a month ahead of Anzac Day.  Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the bridge would give people access to the cenotaph and Soldiers’ Memorial Avenue at the Queens Domain safely, without having to cross a busy highway.  More.....
29 Mar 2019	Website launched to assist transitioning veterans to find employment A new website is making it easier for Australian Defence Force (ADF) members to transition to civilian work.  Minister for Defence Personnel, the Hon Darren Chester MP said the Australian Defence Force Transition and Civil Recognition website had been designed to assist ADF members seeking recognition of prior learning during service, and inform civilian employers of the professional skills, training and accreditation Defence veterans bring to the workplace.  More.....
27 Mar 2019	Australian Government funds Shepparton Light Horse statue A sculpture commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Armistice of the First World War will be built in Shepparton thanks to a $170,000 grant from the Australian Government.  The funding, which will be provided to the Greater Shepparton City Council, was announced today by Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester and the Federal Member for Murray, Damian Drum.  More.....
25 Mar 2019	Independent inquiry into the administration of Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits scheme commutation arrangements The Government will commission an independent inquiry to examine the information provided by scheme administrators and relevant departments to members of the Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits (DFRDB) superannuation scheme. The DFRDB scheme, which was established in 1972 and closed to new members in 1991, allowed members to commute (exchange) part of their pension for a lump sum. There are different views among some in the veteran community about certain areas of the scheme and the appropriateness of information provided to members at the time. The Government recognises the importance of open and transparent discussion around veteran concerns and we will consult with the ex-service community about the terms of reference for the inquiry, as well as panel membership. Ex-Service Organisations and scheme members will have the opportunity to make submissions to the inquiry and raise any other concerns relevant to the scheme. The inquiry is on the agenda for the next Ex-Service Organisation Round Table, to be held on 2 April 2019. ENDS
20 Mar 2019	Veteran pensions set to increase Pension payments for veterans, their partners, war widows and widowers are set to increase from 20 March 2019.  The first pension paid after payday 28 March 2019 will comprise a component of both the old and new rates.  The new pension rates will be fully effective from pension payday 11 April 2019.  More.....
20 Mar 2019	Statement regarding Anzac Day Services at Anzac Cove The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) is continuing to make plans to conduct the traditional commemorative services at Anzac Cove on 25 April 2019.  The Australian Government is closely monitoring the security situation in Turkey and regards the safety of Australians who plan to visit the Gallipoli Peninsula as its highest priority.  I advise anyone planning to travel to Turkey for Anzac Day to monitor the latest travel advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.  The current advice is for travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Ankara, Istanbul and in Turkey overall.  More.....
19 Mar 2019	Senior Australian soldier next Repatriation Commissioner For the first time, a former Regimental Sergeant Major of the Army has been appointed as the new Repatriation Commissioner with outgoing Commissioner Major General Mark Kelly AO, DSC completing his appointment on 30 June this year.  Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester today announced Mr Don Spinks AM, who recently retired from the Australian Defence Force with almost 40 years' experience, had been appointed as the new Repatriation Commissioner and as a Member of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission for a period of five years from 1 July 2019.  More.....
15 Mar 2019	Government commits $2.1 million to anti-malarial initiative Funding has today been announced for a new $2.1 million initiative to support veterans who are concerned about having taken the anti-malarial drugs mefloquine or tafenoquine.  Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester said this initiative will be implemented from 1 July 2019, and deliver a national program to concerned veterans with the option to receive a comprehensive health assessment to identify service-related illness, disease and injury.  More.....
14 Mar 2019	Factsheet IS30 - Pension Rates, Limits and Allowances Summary Purpose This Factsheet provides the current rates and limits for: Service Pension; Age Pension; Veteran Payment; Income Support Supplement; Disability Pension; War Widow’s and Widower’s Pension; and all associated allowances under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA). Continuing reading at https://www.dva.gov.au/factsheet-is30-pension-rates-limits-and-allowances-summary
13 Mar 2019	Improvements recommended to Veterans’ Advocacy Services A report on advocacy services for veterans and their families has identified a number of ways to simplify access to support and services.  Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the report of the Veterans’ Advocacy and Support Services Scoping Study, conducted by Mr Robert Cornall AO, was an important next step in the ongoing transformation of services for veterans and their families.  The report, which was released today, puts forward 12 recommendations providing a pathway forward on advocacy services. The Minister is seeking feedback from the community before acting on any of the recommendations.  More.....
12 Mar 2019	Veteran and Community Grants announced Funding of more than $390,000 has today been announced under the latest round of the Veteran and Community Grants Program.  Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester said the 33 grants from this round would directly benefit veterans and their families.  "The Government is putting veterans and their families first and provides more than $11.2 billion each year to deliver the essential services and programs they can rely on," Mr Chester said.  More.....
08 Mar 2019	Commemorative Grants preserve our wartime heritage AUSTRALIA’S wartime heritage will be preserved with the help of more than $245,000 in funding through the Saluting Their Service Major Commemorative Grants program.  Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the nine projects receiving funding would contribute to Australia’s understanding of its wartime heritage and honour the service and sacrifice of its servicemen and women.  More.....
07 Mar 2019	Anzac Day mail-out helps educate future generations Starting this week, thousands of schools, libraries, ex-service and other organisations will receive a package of educational resources in an Anzac Day mail-out to educate Australians about the different aspects of wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.  Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said Anzac Day was one of the most important commemorative dates in the Australian calendar, and that it provided an important opportunity to educate a range of audiences about the different aspects of wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.  More.....
06 Mar 2019	Recognition of families left behind One of the priorities of the newly established Council for Women and Families United by Defence Service will be to consider a request from the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester to identify an appropriate form of recognition for the families of service personnel who are killed or wounded in action and service.  “It is important to honour the Australians who mourn those killed or injured in the service of their nation,” Mr Chester said.  More.....
04 Mar 2019	New Member John Rees R43326, has joined our association.  John is a former Shipwright and did five trips to Vietnam on HMAS Sydney 1970-71.  Welcome John.
01 Mar 2019	Funding Announced to Support Younger Veterans MORE than $1 million worth of grants have been provided to organisations supporting the needs of younger veterans and their families.  Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the grants, under the Supporting Younger Veterans (SYV) program, would assist with mental health training for veterans including a train-the-trainer qualification and an establishment of a Best Practice Framework for Peer Led Younger Veteran Wellbeing Programs.  More.....
27 Feb 2019	Community and Peer Program to help vulnerable Australian veterans Following the success of a two-year Community and Peer Pilot in Townsville, Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling will now roll-out their Community and Peer Program across Australia, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said today.  “The Government is putting veterans and their families first and is committed to ensuring that they have access to the mental health support they need,” Mr Chester said.  More.....
25 Feb 2019	Anzac Day Villers-Bretonneux, France When it comes to sensitive matters like this which are at the heart of our entire nation, it is vital that the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) conducts full consultations with ex-service organisations and the general public before they make any changes.  That's what the public expect, it's what the Prime Minister and the government expect.  The Minister for Veterans' Affairs has instructed DVA to conduct a Dawn Service at the Australian National Memorial near Villers-Bretonneux, France on Anzac Day 2019.  More.....
25 Feb 2019	Defence Opens E-Communications Platform to Defence Families MINISTER for Defence Personnel Darren Chester today announced Defence has extended the use of the ForceNet e-communication platform to Defence family members to improve communication with families.  ForceNet connects registered users within a secure online environment, allowing families to stay up-to-date with the latest information about their member’s unit and other Defence support services.  More.....
20 Feb 2019	Greater recognition for veterans and their families NEW legislation introduced into Federal Parliament will provide better recognition of the unique nature of military service and further acknowledge the service and sacrifice of veterans and their families.  The Government’s Australian Veterans’ Recognition (Putting Veterans and their Families First) Bill 2019 will establish an Australian Defence Veterans’ Covenant, and as part of a wider recognition package, a card and lapel pin will be provided to veterans.  More.....
05 Feb 2019	Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia Debrief Magazine February edition.....
02 Feb 2019	Junior Recruit Reunion 2020 TINGIRA AUSTRALIA members and all former Junior Recruits of HMAS Leeuwin and HMAS Cerberus, are invited to unite for the celebration of the 60th Diamond Jubilee of the Junior Recruit Training Scheme with the 2020 JR Reunion to be held in Perth on the second weekend of July 2020.”  Download Flyer.....
22 Jan 2019	Expanded online claiming for veterans FASTER claim submissions and processing times for veterans and their families are being delivered through a number of recent improvements and features to MyService – the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) online platform.  Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said veterans and their families can now submit claims for Incapacity Payments online, which is one of the most significant enhancements since the platform’s inception in 2017.  More.....
14 Jan 2019	Search on for unknown sailor On February 6, 1942 the remains of a sailor in a Carley Raft washed up on Christmas Island, 1500km northwest of Western Australia’s northwest coast.  For more than 75 years the identity of the man remained a mystery but it is largely believed he was a crew member from the ill-fated HMAS Sydney (II) which was sunk on November 19, 1941 by German Raider Kormoran.  If this is the case, the unidentified sailor remains the only member of Sydney’s ship’s company to be found; the search is now on to find out exactly who this unknown sailor was.  More.....

Upcoming Events
in 2020
(Full details will be on our Calendar
when they become available)

• Tuesday 14 March: 
  Committee meeting - 11:00

• Saturday 25 April 2019: 
  ANZAC Day:  Full details TBA.  Reunion at the Maori Chief

• Sunday 31 May: 
  Annual SYDNEY 3, Commemoration Service and lunch, 1st Vietnam War Operational Voyage. Naval Memorial Club Langwarrin Sth.
  1100 for 1130.  Full details TBA

• Tuesday 16 June: 
  Committee Meeting - 1100

• Sunday 26 July: 
  AGM - 1100. 
  Luncheon served after meeting.

• Tuesday 28 October:  
  Committee Meeting - 1100

• Tuesday 3 November: 
  Melbourne Cup Function. From 1100. Further details TBA

• Thursday 19 November: 
  Commemorative Service for the loss of H.M.A.S. SYDNEY 2 - 1130 for 1200. Shrine of Remembrance - Sanctuary.  Medals to be worn.

• Sunday 29 November:  
  Kids XMAS Party.  From 1100. Further details TBA.

NOTE:  
Additional events may be added from time to time as they arise.

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Request for Committal of Ashes to the Sea.  Download form.....

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Current Repatriation Benefits for Gold Card Veterans -
As of 01 January 2018
This is a list of products that are available on a Doctor's prescription for Gold Card Repatriation Patients. Download the list.....

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Factsheet CON01 - Concessions in NSW

Factsheet CON02 - Concessions in Vic

Factsheet CON03 - Concessions in QLD

Factsheet CON04 - Concessions in SA

Factsheet CON05 - Concessions in WA

Factsheet CON06 - Concessions in Tas

Factsheet CON07 - Concessions in NT

Factsheet CON08 - Concessions in ACT

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Videos of Interest

Vietnam Veterans'
Commemorative Walk
The Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk in High St., Seymour, commemorates the 60,000+ service personnel and the 11 tracker dogs who served during the 14 years of the Vietnam War. The Walk incorporates a meandering red earth path set in native trees and grasses that resemble rubber trees and rice paddies. These two plants being synonymous to Vietnam. Along the length of the Walk are walls with the names of all the Australian personnel who served in Vietnam. Contemplation areas are incorporated into the Walk as a place for people to sit and reflect on the sacrifices of those that went before us serving our country. Click image to view the video.

Music: "I Am Australian" is performed by the Royal Australian Navy band.
 

Under A Rising Sun
In 2013, I had the pleasure of reading a poem, "Under A Rising Sun", written by one of our members, Laura Benney, aged 13, at the  Seaford RSL Anzac Day service.  Laura's great great grandfather, paid the ultimate sacrifice when he was killed on the Western Front in 1916.  It is in tribute to him that she penned these words. Click here or the image to view the video.

 

War Service

Check your ship's eligibility for war service.....