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Media Release: RSL Australia
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) has welcomed the Government’s legislation currently before the Parliament to simplify and harmonise veteran rehabilitation and compensation entitlements.
Under the legislation, all new compensation claims from 1 July 2026 will be dealt with under a single piece of legislation – an improved Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA) – regardless of when or where the veteran served.
RSL National President Greg Melick said the RSL made a substantial submission to the Government’s proposed legislation and was pleased that this had been considered and a number of changes made to the draft Bill.
“We consulted across the depth and breadth of the League to ensure members’ voices informed the development off it-for-purpose legislation that best serves veterans and their families,” Greg Melick said.
“The RSL is grateful for the contribution of members, and the continued collaboration across the RSL network in line with its commitment to help achieve fit for purpose legislation that makes it simpler and quicker for veterans and their families to access entitlements and support.
“Importantly, under the changes, no veteran will see a reduction to their benefits. Where a veteran is currently receiving benefits under an existing scheme, that will continue unaffected.
“TheRSL will continue to monitor the progress of the legislation and be ready to leverage further opportunities to inform the final Bill as it progresses through the parliamentary process.
“We are determined to keep in step with developments and the changes to veteran entitlements to achieve the best outcome for veterans and their families when the legislation is enacted.”
Greg Melick said the Government had done a creditable job in developing and introducing the legislation and particularly in seeking feedback from the veteran community.
“Although the timing was short, this consultation was positive and proactive, and has resulted in an improved Bill that hopefully will make the lives of veterans and their families easier,” he said.
The RSL's submission from April 2024 can be accessed here - https://www.rslaustralia.org/s/Veterans-Entitlements-Treatment-and-Support-Simplification-and-Harmonisation-Bill-2024.pdf
