From: david matheson
 
Sent: Wednesday, June 02, 2010 11:36 AM
Subject: COVVHS


 Hello Keith,

Below is the Vietnam Veterans Family Study (VVFS) Update that may be of interest to your distribution list!

Kind regards

David Matheson

President, COVVHS

www.covvhs.org.au

 

Article May 2010

Vietnam Veterans? Family Study (VVFS) Update

The VVFS is investigating the long term effects of war service on Vietnam veterans? families. This study will help provide a better understanding of what those impacts are and how best to assist those who need help.

It was initially expected that the VVFS would conclude in December 2016, however, it is now anticipated that the final research reports will be completed by the end of 2011.  Following receipt of all the research reports, a report incorporating these research elements will be completed and this is expected to be handed to Government in the latter half of 2012.  If all goes to plan, this is over four years earlier than originally programmed and will be achieved without compromising the scientific validity of the study.

Registration numbers have continued to increase, however we are still encouraging registrations as the more people involved in the study, the greater the validity of the results.  In particular we are still seeking greater participation from the nieces and nephews of Vietnam veterans to compare the following groups:

       the sons and daughters of Vietnam veterans,

       the nieces and nephews of Vietnam veterans, and

       the children of Vietnam era ex-Army personnel (the control group for this study).

These group comparisons should allow the researchers to identify any significant differences in health and well-being between these groups or between these groups and the general Australian population.

The first research component of the study, the Re-analysis of the Vietnam Veterans? Sons and Daughters Project data, which was undertaken by Enhance Management, has been completed.  This report is available on the main DVA web site (www.dva.gov.au/vvfs).

Five of the studys other research components are underway.  These are the:

       Semi-Structured Telephone Interviews being undertaken by the Institute for Social Science Research and the Centre for Military and Veterans? Health.

       History of Health Case Studies being undertaken by Open Mind Research Group.

       In-depth Case Study (Ethnographic Study) being undertaken by TNS Social Research.

       Main Survey being undertaken by Colmar Brunton Social Research.

       Children of Vietnam Veterans Mortality Study being undertaken by TNS Social Research.

The first three research components detailed above, along with the Re-analysis of the Vietnam Veterans? Sons and Daughters Project data, will provide information to assist with the development of the main survey questionnaire.  It is expected results from these three components will be finalised shortly with the final reports available on the web site later in 2010.

Once development of the main survey questionnaire is completed, it will be sent out to all registered participants.  This is likely to be in the latter third of 2010.

More information on how to register for the study can be found at www.dva.gov.au/vvfs or by calling the FSP Team on freecall 1800 502 302.
 

Timor-Leste Family Study Progress

Military service, particularly deployment, may have a profound effect not only on those who serve but also on their families.  The Timor-Leste Family Study aims to determine what, if any, physical, mental or social health impacts there are on military families as a result of deployment, particularly to Timor Leste.  The study also aims to identify any potential risk or protective factors that influence the ability of Defence families to cope with deployments.  The Centre for Military and Veterans? Health (CMVH) is running the Timor-Leste Family Study as part of the larger Department of Veterans? Affairs Family Study Program.

The research includes information provided by the families of people who:

       deployed to Timor-Leste, or

       were eligible to deploy to Timor-Leste but did not.

These families may or may not have been deployed on other operations.

The study will help DVA and Defence better understand the impact of deployment on Defence families and identify the kinds of support services that would best help these families prior to, during and after deployments.

You can contribute to the success of this research by telling your friends and family about this study and by participating in the study. Potential participants will soon be sent information packages explaining the research and asking them to participate.  

For further information:

Contact us:     call 1800 708 335

            
                website www.cmvh.org.au

 

From: Ron King
Sent: Tuesday, October 06, 2009 8:19 AM
Subject:  Children & Grandchildren of Vietnam Veterans Newsletter


 
From: John&Claudia
Sent: Tuesday, October 06, 2009 8:02 AM
Subject:  Children & Grandchildren of Vietnam Veterans Newsletter


 
Passed on by the 'Info Post'   FYI

 

For your network, please find attached a copy of the first newsletter of our network presenting our first convention.
 
Future newsletters and updates will be posted on my official website at www.intergenerationalptsd.wetpaint.com
 
Cheers.
 
Ken O'Brien

From: Matheson Family
Sent: Friday, February 13, 2009 4:10 PM
Subject: The Seed Tour Dates


Hello Keith,

This email may be of interest to your list?s families in NSW,

Regards,

David

 


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: Leanne Galayini kidsofveterans-nsw
Sent: Friday, 13 February 2009 4:49 PM
To: galayini
Subject: The Seed Tour Dates
Importance: High

 

Hi Everyone,
 
We are really excited to let you know that Kate Mulvany received an Arts Grant to take her play - The Seed national.

Her tour dates are attached to this with a blurb about the play.

We will put a Discussion on our website for those who have seen it to write a short comment about what they thought of / got out of seeing the play.

Last year we organised a group of 20 to go to see The Seed and we are also thinking of repeating this again for the Penrith dates of this tour. If you are interested please let me know because a group booking is much cheaper, for those who have paid their membership there will be tha added incentive of a price discount to see the show, so if you haven't paid your annual membership please consider supporting us and you will receive a discount in the process. Kind of a win-win situation. The Membership form is on the website.

We have plenty going on this year too and the Newsletter will be out soon, if you have anything you would like to add to the Newsletter please email us. We do reserve the right to refuse anything which is not in the best interests of our members or which is derogitory or a personal attack.
 
Don't forget to book your tickets early for Kate's show to avoid dissapointment, I am sure it will be a sell out whereever it goes, please support one of our own! Don't forget to tell your friends and family or even better, take them with you. This is a play not to be missed.
 
Take care
 
Leanne and Meg
 
Don't forget to join our website http://veteranskids-nsw.ning.com/
 

 

Looking forward together to a better quality of life

PLEASE OPEN THE ATTACHMENT

From: Keith Tennent
To: ESO List ; Veterans List
Cc: Michael Bailey Radio 4RO ; Federal Parliamentary List ; Rockhampton Veteran List
Sent: Saturday, November 22, 2008 9:59 AM
Subject: Vets ask for help on study


From: Blue Ryan
Sent: Saturday, November 22, 2008 9:50 AM
Subject: FW: Vets ask for help on study


Could you please pass this on to as many veterans and their families as possible

 

Cheers

 

Blue Ryan


Subject: Vets ask for help on study


http://www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au/news/local/news/general/vets-ask-for-help-on-study/1365029.aspx



Vets ask for help on study
20/11/2008 8:58:00 AM

A CASTLEMAINE family is calling on the children of Vietnam veterans to take part in a vital inter-generational health study.

The study is exploring the idea that the health of children of Vietnam veterans suffers in comparison with children of the same general population.


VOLUNTEERS: Alan Lane and his daughter Tiffany are taking part in a health study of children of Vietnam veterans.


The Federal Government has pledged $13 million to conduct the study, but more people are needed to ensure it goes ahead.

Vietnam veteran Alan Lane and his daughter Tiffany are taking part.

Alan?s three children have each endured health issues, including depression and cancer.

Tiffany is participating because she firmly believes the children of Vietnam veterans have poorer health than their peers.

?We are trying to get some sort of conclusive evidence, it?s all just circumstantial at the moment,?? she said.

According to Alan, of the 60,000 men conscripted between 1965 and 1972, there were 19,500 who served in Vietnam.

For the study to be conclusive, children of those who served and those who did not are needed.

?We need the children of those who didn?t serve to use as comparison,?? he said.

?There are many veterans? families who have been lobbying extremely hard for this healthy study for many years and for the study to have some chance of being successful, as many veterans and their families as possible are required to register.

The number of Vietnam veterans targeted for the study was 3000. More than 10,000 requests were sent out, but only 2120 had registered by November 2.

Requests were also sent to 9655 veterans of the Vietnam era who did not serve, but only 1141 of the 3000 needed have responded.

The number of children targeted was 1860, with only 593 registered until November.

?If insufficient register for the comparison group, the health study will be fruitless and fall over,?? Alan said.

Registration for the study can be completed online through the Department of Veterans Affairs website or by phoning 1800 502 302.

 

Comments
 

Date: Newest first | Oldest first

I would like to thank our brothers and sisters in Australia and encourage you all, Children of Vietnam Veterans, to participate in this study. There are so many of us from the states who are following the COVVHS (Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study).

Let me know you have support from all over the world from men and women who are Children of Vietnam Veterans. We are from the United States, Canada, Sweden, South Vietnam, New Zealand, Hong Kong. Please let us support you!

Much love and respect,

Daughters of Vietnam Veterans info@dovv.net

Posted by Daughters of Vietnam Veterans on 21/11/2008 2:03:04 AM

I'm taking part in the Australian health study and so is my mother and little sister. Sadly my dad can't take part as he passed away about five years ago to suicide.

I've suffered depression my whole life, so please anyone who sees this, please take part, this isn't only good for us Aussies, it means so much to American veterans and their families.

Posted by franny on 21/11/2008 7:33:40 AM

I would participate in this study if I could. I am an American child of a Vietnam vet. My brother and I both have neurological birth defects. Thanks to all that are participating. It means a lot to people all over the world.

Posted by Christy on 21/11/2008 10:54:29 AM

I too am taking part in the Australian Families Health Sudy along with my brother and father. This is an important study and I am thankful that I have the chance to take part and hopefully make a difference.

Posted by Jenni on 21/11/2008 1:11:52 PM

From: Keith Tennent
To: Veterans List ; ESO List
Sent: Wednesday, November 12, 2008 9:30 AM
Subject: Website dedicated to the children and grandchildren of Vietnam Veterans


From: Ted McEvoy
Sent: Wednesday, November 12, 2008 10:23 AM
Subject: Website dedicated to the children and grandchildren of Vietnam Veterans


Apologies if you have received this previously
 
http://intergenerationalptsd.wetpaint.com/

Ted McEvoy

From: Keith Tennent

To: ESO List

Cc: Veterans List

Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2008 9:41 PM
Subject: SCHOLARSHIPS FOR CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]



The following media release was issued on Saturday, 16 August 2008

Minister for Veterans' Affairs, the Hon Alan Griffin
Media release VA080

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS
 
Vietnam veteran families have benefited from $468,000 in tertiary
education scholarships presented to 52 sons and daughters of Vietnam
veterans in 2008, the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Alan Griffin, said
today.

Mr Griffin said the scholarships are recognition by the Australian
Government of the additional challenges children may face due to their
parents' Vietnam War service.

"The Long Tan Bursary scheme aims to help hard working students from
Vietnam veteran families through tertiary education and towards their
long-term goals," he said.

Mr Griffin said he was pleased to meet so many of the students at
official presentation ceremonies held across the country.

Mr Griffin said the students awarded the Long Tan Bursary in 2008 are
heading towards careers in areas as diverse as nuclear technology,
aviation technology, architecture, medicine, science, photography,
education and commerce.

"These students have proven their ability and determination to achieve
academically and I am pleased the Australian Government is supporting
their studies," he said.

"Each bursary of up to $9000 over three years is awarded to students,
including mature age students, who have achieved good academic results
and who have overcome personal challenges to successfully complete their
secondary education."

Mr Griffin said more than 260 children of Vietnam veterans had benefited
from the bursary scheme since it was introduced in 2000.  The scheme was
introduced in response to the findings of the Vietnam Veterans' Health
Study to provide financial support to children of Vietnam veterans with
their tertiary education.

The bursary scheme is named after the Battle of Long Tan on 18 August
1966, in which Australian soldiers of D Company 6 RAR encountered and
fought off an enemy force of up to 2500 troops in a rubber plantation
north of the village of Lon Tan.  Eighteen Australians lost their lives
in the battle.

Applications for the Long Tan Bursary scheme open on Vietnam Veterans'
Day each year, 18 August, and close on 31 October.  Application forms are available from the Australian Veterans' Children Assistance Trust on 1800 620 361.


Media inquiries: Laura Ryan 0437 863 109


Editors note: A list of bursary recipients is attached.


To receive the Minister's media releases automatically by email please
go to minister.dva.gov.au/subscribe.ht

2008 Long Tan Bursary recipients

Tasmania
* Madelaine McCausland of Longford, Bachelor of Arts, University
of Tasmania;
* Garry James of Claremont, Bachelor of Ocean Engineering,
Australian Maritime College, Launceston;
* Samuel Kruimink of Sandy Bay, Bachelor of Science, University of
Tasmania; and
* Catherine Parsons of Sandy Bay, Bachelor of Business, University
of Tasmania.

Victoria
* Hannah Jones of East Doncaster, Diploma of Community Welfare
Work, Holmesglen TAFE; 
* Amy Longhorn of Warrnambool, Bachelor of Arts, Deakin University
in Warrnambool; 
* Claire Dowling of Ballan, Bachelor of Psychological Science,
University of Ballarat;   
* Nikita Donovan of Barwonheads, Bachelor of Outdoor & Physical
Education, La Trobe University, Bendigo;
* Bess Skelton of Fitzroy, Bachelor of Fashion Design, RMIT
University; and
* Michael Haviland of Miranda NSW, Associate Degree in Technology
(Aviation), Swinburne University, Hawthorne campus.

Queensland
* Brooke McKeever of Albany Creek, Bachelor of Veterinary Science,
University of Queensland;
* Marion Angel of Burpengary, Bachelor of Nursing, Queensland
University of Technology;
* Bronwyn Lyall of Wishart, Bachelor of Creative Industries,
Queensland University of Technology;
* Krystelle Watts of Taringa, Bachelor of Photography, Griffith
University;
* Katrina Brown of Gatton, Bachelor of Applied Science, University
of Queensland;
* Rebecca Cassidy of Townsville, Bachelor of Music, Queensland
Conservatorium of Music;
* Khamla Mott of Coolum Beach, Bachelor of Applied Science,
University of Queensland;
* Arabella Haig of Allora, Bachelor of Economics and Bachelor of
Commerce, University of Queensland;
* Colleen Bell of Robertson, Bachelor of Education, Griffith
University;
* James Ridgwell of Warrnambool Victoria, Bachelor of Medicine,
Bachelor of Surgery, James Cook University;and
* Isobel Larkin of Alstonevale NSW Diploma of Dance, Queensland
Conservatoire of Ballet.

Western Australia
* Jarrod Carlson of Nollamara, Bachelor of Engineering and
Computer Science, University of Western Australia;
* Katrina House of North Beach, Bachelor of Arts, University of
Western Australia; and
* Antony Lockley of Midway Point Tasmania, Bachelor of Commerce,
Curtin University of Technology.

South Australia
* Sara Cadd of Hectorville, Bachelor of Nursing at the University
of South Australia;
* Nicole Dikkenberg of North Haven, Bachelor of Journalism and
Bachelor of Arts, International studies, at the University of South
Australia;
* Carly Dunn of Willunga, Bachelor of Education at Flinders
University.
* Rebecca Johnston of Gawler, Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of
Law, at the University of Adelaide; and
* Anna Taheny of Sefton Park, Bachelor of Education in Design and
Technology at the University of South Australia.

New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory
* Jenny Chen of Nowra, Bachelor of Commerce, University of
Canberra;
* Daniel Clements of Sawtell, Bachelor of Commerce, Newcastle
University; 
* Elle Durrant of Salamander Bay, Bachelor of Design
(Architecture), Newcastle University;   
* Brooke Milligan of Newcastle, Bachelor of Development Studies,
Newcastle University;   
* Emily Morath of Mt Keira, Bachelor of Commerce and Accounting,
University of Wollongong; 
* David Oakden of Port Macquarie, Bachelor of Nuclear Science and
Technology, Wollongong University;
* Steven Pearce of Narromine, Bachelor of Electrical Engineering,
Wollongong University;
* Aaron Shiels of Ballina, Bachelor of Games and Interactive
Entertainment, Queensland University of Technology;
* Alexander Sutton of North Rocks, Bachelor of Science, Sydney
University; 
* Ophelia Tynan of Canberra, Bachelor of Arts, Australian National
University;
* Sarah Johnston of Howlong, Bachelor of Commerce, Latrobe
University, Albury campus;
* Zoe Van Munster of Chipping Norton, Bachelor of Arts (Pathway to
Teaching Secondary), University of Western Sydney, Bankstown campus; and
* Nicole MacKay of Cobargo, Bachelor of Arts and Diploma in
Education, Wollongong University.

* Ten of the Long Tan Bursary recipients have asked to remain anonymous.

From: Keith Tennent

To: Main Veterans List

Sent: Friday, May 23, 2008 8:46 AM
Subject: Vietnam Vets Family Study Joining Instructions


From: Rob-on Vista
Sent: Thursday, May 22, 2008 4:23 PM
Subject: Vietnam Vets Family Study Joining Instructions


Hi All
FYI
Rob/Bob

DVA is seeking Vietnam veterans and their families to take part in a study into their health and well-being. The study will look at what effect veterans? service in Vietnam may have had on veterans? families.

The first focus will be on Vietnam veterans and their families, while later studies will look at the families of veterans from more recent deployments. The research includes children, partners, siblings, nieces and nephews.

A range of research techniques will be used throughout the entire study, including:

a survey which will be sent to all study participants; and
telephone interviews and small group discussions.

The study aims to identify any common risk factors for veterans and their families, as well as factors that protect families? health and well-being.

The entire study is expected to take 8 years. It will be completed by 2016.

To contact the Family Study Program:

Email healthstudy@dva.gov.au
Phone: 1800 502 302
Mail: Family Study Program
Department of Veterans? Affairs
PO Box 21
WODEN ACT 2606


More Info here : http://www.dva.gov.au/health/research/fsp/vv/index.htm

From: Keith Tennent

To: Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List ; ESO Mailing List

Cc: Main Veterans List ; Federal Parliamentary List

Sent: Monday, May 05, 2008 6:49 PM
Subject: Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study (COVVHS)




 
Hello all,

The long awaited Children?s Study link on the DVA web site now available, COVVHS suggests  that you go online to the DVA link;  www.dva.gov.au/health/research/fsp/vv/   and make yourself familiar with the study requirements, etc.

Contact details are;

DVA?s Health Study Line: 1 800 502 302

Postal address:

Family Study Program

Department of Veterans? Affairs

PO Box 21

WODEN ACT 2606

Email: healthstudy@dva.gov.au 

Please pass this information onto any Vietnam veteran, their spouses and children!!

Kind regards,

David Matheson

President, COVVHS

www.covvhs.org.au



********************

www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/  Forum
 
http://www.geckodot.net/tpivets/ TPI Campaign Historical Site

From: Keith Tennent

To: ESO Mailing List ; Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List

Cc: Main Veterans List ; Federal Parliamentary List

Sent: Friday, May 02, 2008 9:25 AM
Subject: CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS HEALTH STUDY WEBSITE


From: Matheson Family
Sent: Friday, May 02, 2008 8:51 AM
Subject: COVVHS
 



The new Children?s study web site can be found here on the DVA website;
 www.dva.gov.au/health/research/fsp/vv/

I?m sure that your list would appreciate knowing, there is an email address to make contact (register) with DVA.



 

COVVHS will be putting out a general statement early next week on its list!



 

Kind regards,

 David





www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/  Forum
 
http://www.geckodot.net/tpivets/ TPI Campaign Historical Site

From: Keith Tennent

To: ESO Mailing List ; Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List

Cc: Main Veterans List

Sent: Friday, April 18, 2008 9:37 PM
Subject: Australian War Memorial visit 5th July 08


From: David Matheson
Sent: Friday, April 18, 2008 7:49 PM
Subject: FW: Australian War Memorial visit 5th July 08


Hello Keith,

You may care to send this email out on your list,

Regards,

David Matheson

 


----------------------------------------

From: Leanne Galayini [mailto:kidsofveterans-nsw@hotmail.com]

Sent: Friday, 18 April 2008 7:40 PM
To

Subject: Australian War Memorial visit 5th July 08
 

Hi Everyone,
 
Here is the information about our visit to the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, if you have any questions please ask.
 
I do need numbers so let me know whether or not you would like to attend by the 7th June.
 
I will drive you all crazy with reminders until then!!!
 
Take care
 
Leanne
Facilitator
KOV-NSW




 

5th July 2008

 

Hi Everyone,

 

The date for the weekend at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra has changed, it is now

Friday 4th- Sunday 6th July 2008.

 

You are welcome to come down on the Friday night or arrive Saturday morning. You will need to arrive before 10am though.

 

ACCOMMODATION

 

We will be staying at     Eaglehawk Holiday Park,

1246 Federal Highway,

NSW/ACT Border

SUTTON 2620

Phone 02 6241 6411

 

You are welcome to check out their website which is

http://www.eaglehawk.contact.com.au

 

There are a couple of types of accommodation available the best option if you are on a budget is to stay in a standard cabin. Cost for 2 people a night is $95.00 + $15.00 per extra adult. These sleep up to six people so if you can get together a group of six it will only cost you $26.00 per night each, pretty good value! Check out the website anyway and book early.

 

AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL

 

We will be meeting at the Australian War Memorial at 9.45 on Saturday morning and I have booked a tour for us at 10.00am. Admission and tour are free. And the AWM is open from 10am to 5pm Saturday only. After the tour you are welcome to take in the rest of the Memorial at your own leisure.

Check out the website for more info: http://www.awm.gov.au

 

Saturday night I was thinking of a BYO BBQ back at Eaglehawk around 6.00pm and I may have something special lined up for us but details of that will be finalized closer to the date.

 

Sunday if you want to leave early and beat the traffic then no problem, you may want to take in other sites around Canberra instead that?s ok too. If anyone just wants to come down for the day on Saturday we would love to see you. Or if you have an idea of something we could do on Sunday let me know.

 

Once you have made your decisions about when you will be arriving, if you will be staying and how long for then please let me know so that I can organize myself and keep tabs on the numbers especially for Eaglehawk as we will get a discount if there are enough of us. I will also need to RSVP the AWM with the number of people who will be joining us for the tour Saturday morning.

 

For this weekend partners are welcome, I won?t be taking my kids but if you want to let me know.

 

If you have any questions please contact me and I will endeavour to answer them!!!


********

 

www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/  Forum
 
http://www.geckodot.net/tpivets/ TPI Campaign Historical Site

From: Keith Tennent

To: ESO Mailing List ; Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List

Cc: Media List ; Main Veterans List ; Federal Parliamentary List

Sent: Monday, March 17, 2008 7:36 AM
Subject: COVVHS Response to Discussion Paper


From: David Matheson
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2008 7:27 AM
Subject: COVVHS Response to Discussion Paper


Hello all,

 

Please find below the COVVHS submission to the Minister for Veterans Affairs, Mr Alan Griffin in response to his letter and discussion paper received to us on 25.2.08.

 

Thank you Minister Griffin for being proactive!

 

There is one area in our submission that is not covered satisfactorily; this is in the area of legal advice.

 

Over the years COVVHS has had numerous legally qualified veterans (or spouses or children) offering us assistance, initially our all consuming issue was getting the government to acknowledge that a ?study? was needed?

 

COVVHS would like to talk to any member of the legal profession who believes that they can contribute to the discussion; we really do need your expertise.

 

Should you have any comments please let us know!!!

 

Kind regards,

 

David Matheson 0408 506835

 

President,

 

COVVHS www.covvhs.org.au

 

 

 

Intergenerational Health Study

 

As Minister for Veterans Affairs, Mr. Griffin, you are to be complemented on your enthusiastic approach to progressing the Intergenerational Health Study of veterans? sons and daughters.  The Discussion paper provides a valuable opportunity to provide input into the governance of the study.  COVVHS is very appreciative of your continued communication and collaboration.

 

Please find the following suggestions as constructive proposals for consideration.

 

1.         Skills for Consultative Forum Representation

There will be difficulties and challenges, such as obtaining the necessary veteran family numbers to guarantee a successful study outcome, establishing veteran community support, and having an effective communication process so that the veteran community feel like participants, not ?guinea pigs?.

Participation in the Consultative Forum requires a commitment from the members of the forum to not only attend meetings but to pro-actively contribute.   The role is not that of a specialist, but that of providing constructive information and input to assist in the resolution to issues or problems as a means of overcoming obstacles to the research, and providing information representing the issues of the veterans community, in particular the interests of sons and daughters of veterans.

The consultative forum will operate most effectively if its members have appropriate skills to contribute. These skills include the ability to:

?          Have a genuine interest in the health of veterans sons and daughters;

?          Communicate effectively;

?          Reason soundly and analyze information;

?          Critically appraise information;

?          Effectively defend opinions with solid arguments:

?          Write clear, well-organized argumentative prose

?          Think clearly

?          Make rational judgments.

?          Understand the principles of argument.

?          Represent the actual interests of the stakeholders, rather than their own priorities;

?          Establish and maintain a good working relationships with other members of the forum, and the ex service community, focusing on the future for sons and daughters of veterans.

 

2.         Alternative Model for Consultative Representation

It appears that the DVA is in total control of the research project(s). The DVA (and their support, the CMVH) have established the research protocol and are selecting the contractors / consultants to undertake the research without veteran community consultation... This may or may not have been the most appropriate process, but was not foreseen by the veteran community.

COVVHS proposes for your consideration, that an alternative option be considered.  That there be a single management forum representing all stakeholders including research professionals, the Minister, clients, ex-service organisations and others.

Moving from communication to engagement, the proposal relies upon the quality of relationships, the individuals have in common rather than divergent aims.

The model relies upon agreement of the Terms of Reference from the outset and utilizes the development of the quality of the relationship and looks beyond individual impartialities to include elements of trust (integrity, dependability and competence), mutuality of control and commitment to an optimal outcome.



Things to focus on include:

?          Involving the membership in order to make participation greater and more effective for all stakeholders

?          Maintaining a climate which is open to and supportive of various stakeholders? involvement (eg accepting the expertise and knowledge of professional scientists and medically trained people).

?          Clarifying the complementary role which the various stakeholders can play in the study, and in anticipation of constructive policy and intervention strategies (eg. Scientists have a professional role; Sons and daughters are familiar with and have an understanding of those being studied; Parents have social experience and knowledge of the wider client group).

?          Identifying people?s interests and expertise and utilizing them to the best benefit of the study (particularly for non scientific persons).

?          Preparing stakeholders for an increasing participation (with an emphasis on transferring skills from other / outside involvements to constructively participate in problem solving and decision-making, thus taking ownership of the findings (and develops both confidence and competence).

?          Looking for ways to communicate even more effectively and to invite non scientists to participate from a point of strength (expertise) rather than being two groups, scientists and ex-service representatives.

?          Keeping in mind the broader picture of what factors create good research and understanding of the physical and mental aspects of the work.  It may not be clear whether a policy researcher?s greater responsibility is to policymakers, or to the people who are ultimately affected.  If members purport to work on behalf of a wider community group, what accountability mechanisms ought to be in place ?  It is also important to actively pursue a range of ways to communicate with the wider stakeholders to ensure they keep abreast of emerging information.



 

There is increasing recognition both internationally and in Australia of the importance of active consumer involvement in mental health research. In 2001, the National Health & Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and the Consumers? Health Forum of Australia(CHF) released a Statement on Consumer and Community Participation in Health and Medical Research which acknowledges the benefit of and rights of consumers to participate in health research.

Suzanne Northcott, Executive Head of NHMRC?s Centre for Research Management Head of the Research described the role of the NHMRC/CHF Statement on Community Participation in Health and Medical Research in the Council?s strategic planning for the current triennium?. She noted that the NHMRC Research Committee has adopted six strategies for promoting consumer involvement. These are:

? Expanding consumer representation on NHMRC Research Committee working groups

? Commending the Statement;

? Providing information to consumers about the role of Research Committee and developing a network for information and support;

? Ensuring researchers support the rights of research participants to the results of the research and have access to their own results;

? Ensuring participation is part of good research practice;

? Monitoring implementation;

Future NHMRC grant applicants will be required to justify their research in terms of their dissemination strategies and plans for consumer involvement in the research. In addition, in the future, institutions accredited with the NHMRC will be required to comply with the NHMRC?s new consumer statement.
 

 

3.         Selecting Members to the Forum

Selection of CF members may be through methods which include:

?          Submission of an expression of interest which provides details of the proposed member?s relevant skills, abilities, expertise as explained in Item 1 above.

?          Advertising (inexpensive options)

?          Seeking expressions of interest from veteran community organizations for appropriately qualified people;

?          Selection process by Minister and a member of the veteran community.

Above all, members of the consultative forum require appropriate skills, and must be willing to put the interest of the health of veterans? sons and daughters foremost.

Rather than selecting forum representatives from each and every ex service organization, it is COVVHS?s belief that it would be preferable to have well skilled representation from individuals who are willing to communicate regularly with the stakeholder groups. Therefore selection of members of the forum would be based upon their individual skills, interest and capability.

It is important that there is effective and up to date communications with all stakeholder groups (veteran community organizations).

As Minister, and an objective person, it may be appropriate that you and one member of the veteran community select the members of the forum.  The veteran community person could be a keenly interested and knowledgeable person who is aware of the issues.



4.         Membership of the Consultative Forum

As a suggestion, the membership may comprise:

A chairperson
 
 Ministers Representative
 
Scientists and Researchers
 
 
 
A son of a Vietnam veteran
 
 
 
A daughter of a Vietnam veteran
 
 
 
A partner of a veteran, and mother of a veterans son or daughter
 
 
 
One, two or three members of the ex service community.
 
 To represent Vietnam veterans, non deployed military people, national servicemen
 
A person with scientific and research skills and experience to explain and guide the non expert members of the consultative forum on the consequences and potential outcomes of the research activities (eg the impact of sample size on the findings and outcomes).
 
 
 
A psychiatrist and/or medical practitioner.
 
 
 
A person who has children born after service in East Timor.
 
 East Timor Representative
 
A person with relevant legal experience            and qualifications
 
 
 
Independent secretariat
 
 
 

 

5.         Term of membership to the Consultative Forum.

Because this research is a world first, it may be appropriate that the membership remain flexible, and possibly appoints people on a rotational basis.

6.         Training of Consultative forum members

The consultative forum would benefit from a one or two day training course which explains the role and responsibilities of the members, and how each may optimize their input to the forum.

7.         Importance of Information sharing

This research will take years to complete, and it is in the best interest of the research if stakeholders are kept informed, and where possible involved.  The information being released from the forum relating to process and methodology should be shared amongst the veteran community, and not held captive by the DVA. Stakeholders need to understand the progress and constraints. There is a strong tendency for the DVA to restrict information citing personal information is confidential. However most information does not involve personal information. In the past there has been a practice of producing a ?special? set of minutes for the general community.

Understanding that a research study is not just doing a literature review, collecting data, asking questions and drawing some conclusions. In the end the information gathered and conclusions drawn need to be able to produce policy and establish intervention strategies.

 

8.         Terms of Reference

COVVHS would like to establish whether the level of ill health amongst the sons and daughters of Vietnam (and other) veterans is higher than the general community.  [how sick are veterans children ?}

 

Recommendations of the Feasibility Report proposed exploring intergenerational transmission, which COVVHS supports.

 

A family study is proposed rather than a study of the sons and daughters only; and is proposed to be delivered in components (tiers).

 

Tier 1 would involve substantial qualitative research investigating resilience and protective factors, family dynamics, family health service usage and experiences (on Vietnam veterans and their families.

Tier 2 would involve a survey to compare the effects of service in Vietnam on the sons and daughters of Vietnam veterans with the effects of being in the military on sons and daughters of Vietnam era service personnel who did not go to Vietnam (qualitative & quantitative research).

Tier 3 would involve a survey to compare the effects of service in Vietnam on the sons and daughters of Vietnam veterans with the effects of being in the military on sons and daughters of the brothers of Vietnam era service personnel who did not go to Vietnam. (qualitative & quantitative research).

Tier 4 would involve a survey to compare the effects of service in Vietnam on the sons and daughters of Vietnam veterans with a community sample who have never served in the military, specifically the sons and daughters of siblings of Vietnam veterans who did not serve in the military (qualitative & quantitative research).

Tier 5 would involve a mortality study which would compare the mortality rates of sons and daughters of Vietnam veterans with mortality rates of sons and daughters of veterans who served in the military but were not sent to Vietnam and with the mortality rates of a community sample who have never served in the military, specifically the sons and daughters of siblings of Vietnam veterans who did not serve in the military. (quantitative research).

 

The former Minister for Veterans Affairs was not willing to discuss any alternative options to the order of these components.

COVVHS understands that the recruitment of a study cohort is not an insignificant task. Advancement of the individual research components depends on the progress of the primary recruitment phase, which is anticipated to commence in 2008.

It is however worth further consideration as to whether conducting the quantitative and qualitative analysis concurrently would be advantageous.  Further discussion is needed to determine how the quantitative findings may inform some of the qualitative components, and assist in for-shadowing potential policy considerations.

From: Keith Tennent

To: Royal Aust GP Mental Health ; Royal Aust College of GPs ; AMA ; Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List ; ESO Mailing List

Cc: Ian McPhedran News Ltd ; Sasha Uzunov Freelance Journo ; Edith Bevan Journo ; Paul Cutler SBS ; Hugo Kelly Journo ; Paul Murray ; Alison Rehn Journo ; Qld Courier Mail Editor ; Frank Walker Fairfax ; Michael McKenna Australian ; Michael Bailey Radio 4RO ; Derryn Hinch ; Rockhampton Morning Bulletin ; K Stevenson ; Chris Masters ; Main Veterans List ; Federal Parliamentary List

Sent: Wednesday, February 27, 2008 8:19 AM
Subject: Children of Vietnam Veterans health Study (COVVHS)


From: David Matheson
Sent: Wednesday, February 27, 2008 6:52 AM
Subject: Children of Vietnam Veterans health Study (COVVHS)


 
Report from COVVHS 26th February 2008.

Greetings,

Consultation with stakeholders relating to the Intergenerational Health Study

On the 21 February, the Minister for Veterans Affairs, Mr Alan Griffin released a discussion paper canvassing ideas on the consultation process being developed for the Health Study.

COVVHS is adding this discussion paper to our web site to keep all those interested up to date with the current situation.

Because of the potential for a significant number of responses it may be appropriate for individuals interested in responding to the paper to do so through their respective organizations; certainly COVVHS would be pleased to include your ideas in our response.

The paper on the formation of the consultative forum for the family study program discusses:

          Funds granted;

          DVAs role in managing the study and the research;

          History of consultation;

          Scientific Advisory Committee;

          Consultative Forum;

          Issues for consideration (type, membership, roles & responsibilities, terms of reference).

COVVHS proposes to provide a response to the Minister, by the closing date of 31st March 2008.

You will find the Ministers letter to COVVHS and the discussion paper on this link; www.covvhs.org.au

Kind regards,

David Matheson,

President, COVVHS



www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/  Forum
 
http://www.geckodot.net/tpivets/ TPI Campaign Historical Site

From: Keith Tennent

To: Shadow Minister for Veterans Affairs ; Minister for Veterans Affairs

Cc: Main Veterans List ; Ian McPhedran News Ltd ; Sasha Uzunov Freelance Journo ; Edith Bevan Journo ; Paul Cutler SBS ; Hugo Kelly Journo ; Paul Murray ; Alison Rehn Journo ; Qld Courier Mail Editor ; Frank Walker Fairfax ; Michael McKenna Australian ; Neil Wilson Herald Journo ; Michael Bailey Radio 4RO ; Derryn Hinch ; K Stevenson ; Chris Masters ; EDA President ; RSL Nat President ; Capricornia RSL President ; VVAA Sunshine Coast ; Vietnam Veterans Peacekeeping & Peacemaking Veterans' Assoc of Aust TVille ; Vietnam Veterans Peacekeeping & Peacemaking Veterans' Assoc of Aust Qld ; National PVA Research and Benefits Member ; WA TPI ; ACT TPI ; National PVA Secretary ; ACT RSL ; Barry Billing NSW VVAA ; RSL National ; NSW RSL ; NSW TPI ; Queensland RSL ; Vic TPI ; Victorian RSL ; Vietnam Veterans Peacekeeping & Peacemaking Veterans' Assoc of Aust ; WA RSL ; Nat Coordinator Program ASIST ; President Pioneer-Fitzroy-Highlands RSL District ; Capricornia RSL Secretary ; Defence Force Welfare Assoc ; Vietnam Veterans Peacekeeping & Peacemaking Veterans' Assoc of Aust WA Branch ; National PVA President ; TPI Federation ; President PVA SA ; SA State President RAAF Association ; Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List

Sent: Monday, December 10, 2007 3:38 PM
Subject: INTERGENERATIONAL HEALTH EFFECTS OF SERVICE IN THE MILITARY




From: Matheson Family
Sent: Monday, December 10, 2007 2:59 PM
Subject: COVVHS

Hello all,
Below is a statement from the Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study Inc
Kind regards,
David Matheson
President, COVVHS

http://www.covvhs.org.au/
http://mc2.vicnet.net.au/home/carryon/web/COVVHSindex.html
http://www.pva.org.au/


INTERGENERATIONAL HEALTH EFFECTS OF SERVICE IN THE MILITARY

Research into the health of veterans families, provides a very significant opportunity to understand and improve people's lives. Most people are aware that over past generations Australian armed forces service personnel have undertaken a committed role on behalf of their country.  What has not been understood is that in many cases there has been a very significant impact on their family?s physical & mental health, and the quality of their lives.
It is not before time that the Australian Government and community obtained a complete understanding.


While in opposition, Labor, (now the Rudd Government) agreed to follow through with research into the intergenerational health of the sons and daughters of veterans.
Some in the veteran community have said, ?just leave it to the researchers and let them do their jobs?. (no stakeholder involvement).


Regardless of which scientific organization undertakes the research, it is vital that the group established to oversee / manage / provide direction to the research, has multiple representation of stakeholders.


Effective representation is vital; not to undertake or direct the research methodologies, nor to hamper the scientific work; but to ensure the best interest of veterans sons and daughters is assured.


There will be challenges which only enthusiastic representation can provide.
This includes understanding the affect that sampling and data collection have on the potential results that may be obtained. For example, without an adequate sample size, less common health problems cannot be established.


Several ex service organizations have been giving consideration to who may provide the representation. The previous Minister, Bruce Billson would not give any indication of the make up of the representation, except to say, that it will include a suitably qualified person.

There will be difficulties and challenges, such as obtaining the necessary veteran family numbers to guarantee a successful study outcome, establishing veteran community support, and having an effective communication process so that the veteran community feel like participants, not ?guinea pigs?.

For discussion purposes stakeholder representation includes:

         Representing the actual interests of the stakeholder rather than the individual priorities;

         Having a communications strategy and mechanisms for consultation;

         Maintaining a working relationship with all parties;

         Persuading the forum that the information relating to process and methodology be shared amongst the veteran community, and not held captive by the DVA.  Stakeholders need to understand the progress and constraint.  There is a strong tendency for the DVA to restrict information citing personal information is confidential.  However most information does not involve personal information.  In the past there has been a practice of producing a ?special? set of minutes for the general community.

         Establishing and maintaining good working relationships with other members of the forum, and the ex service community, focusing on the future for sons and daughters of veterans.

         Being aware that researchers, scientific experts, and stakeholders all have individual expertise which may assist with the process and final outcome.

         Realizing that a research study is not just doing a literature review, collecting data, asking questions and drawing some conclusions. Each of these components has degrees of focus and completeness.  The ability to produce policy and establish intervention strategies is also an important consideration.

         Have sound reasoning and analysis skills:

o         critically appraise complex reasoning

o         effectively defend opinions with solid arguments

o         write clear, well-organized argumentative prose

o         think clearly

o         make rational judgments.

o         understand the principles of argument


$13.5M was committed to this research into the Intergenerational health effects of service in the military.


Professor Hedley Peach has supported the importance of undertaking this study and has advised government, advised the veteran community, and generally provided a very significant amount of his personal time to pursuing family research into the health of veteran?s sons and daughters; he has written and published papers on the matter.


Dr Roderick Bain, as a member of the veteran community, indicated that he also believes it is imperative that we have participatory representation in the consultation process and the research study, from its inception to conclusion.  This would include involvement and representation on any steering committee, reference group, or advisory committee.


The proposed scope of the study has been widened to include East Timor personnel and to also include a prospective study into troops who are yet to see service abroad.


The Minister for Veterans Affairs, Mr. Alan Griffin, is very enthusiastic to introduce the Governments policy and has said that he will be working with the veteran community to ensure stakeholders are actively involved with the health study.
COVVHS is very appreciative of Minister Griffins continued collaboration.


www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/  Forum
 
http://www.geckodot.net/tpivets/ TPI Campaign Historical Site

From: Keith Tennent

To: Main Veterans List

Sent: Monday, September 10, 2007 5:31 AM

Subject: RSL LAYS OUT WHAT IT SEES AS ISSUES AFFETCING VETERANS


From: Matheson Family

To: Keith Tennent ; Royal Aust College of GPs ; Royal Aust GP Mental Health ; AMA ; Dr Rod Bain ; EDA President ; RSL Nat President ; Capricornia RSL President ; VVAA Sunshine Coast ; TVille VVFA ; Qld VVFA ; PVA Research and Benefits Member ; WA TPI ; ACT TPI ; PVA Secretary ; ACT RSL ; Barry Billing NSW VVAA ; RSL National ; NSW RSL ; NSW TPI ; Queensland RSL ; TPI Federation ; Vic TPI ; Victorian RSL ; VVFA National ; WA RSL ; Nat Coordinator Program ASIST ; President Pioneer-Fitzroy-Highlands RSL District ; Capricornia RSL Secretary ; VVPeacekeepers/Peacemakers Federation WA ; Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List

Cc: Edith Bevan Journo ; Alison Rehn Journo ; Michael McKenna Australian ; Main Veterans List ; K Stevenson ; Qld Courier Mail Editor ; Sasha Uzunov Freelance Journo ; Paul Dyer Journo News Limited ; Michael Bailey Radio 4RO ; Federal Parliamentary List ; Ian McPhedran News Ltd ; Paul Cutler SBS ; Hugo Kelly Journo ; Chris Masters ; Frank Walker Fairfax ; Neil Wilson Herald Journo ; Paul Murray

Sent: Sunday, September 09, 2007 6:51 PM
Subject:RSL LAYS OUT WHAT IT SEES AS ISSUES AFFETCING VETERANS


Hello Keith,

I would have thought that the Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study would be a "key policy' issue!

David Matheson
President, COVVHS

www.svsg.org.au/links.htm
www.covvhs.org.au


 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Returned & Services League of Australia

 

 

 

 

Federal Election 2007

 

Issues Affecting Australia?s Veterans

 





 

 

R1-1-91/BC:jo

September 2007

 

 

NP: 233/07

 

To:       Leaders of Federal Parliamentary Parties

            Minister and Shadow Minister for Veterans? Affairs

           

 

The Returned and Services League of Australia

Federal Election 2007

Issues Affecting Australia?s Veterans

 

You will be aware that a number of key Ex-Service Organisations have made a submission to the Federal Parliamentary Parties in the lead up to the next Federal Election.  The RSL was a participant in the compilation of that submission.

 

As the oldest, largest, and most representative Ex-Service Organisation, our members expect that we would also make our own stand-alone submission reflecting our considered view of the issues, highlighting particularly what we would regard as the next steps in enhancing the quality of our repatriation and defence service arrangements.

 

This document contains four sections:

 

?         Section 1  provides the historical context of the League?s ongoing efforts to ensure that veterans are appropriately cared for.  This section is almost identical to Section 1 of our more recent Budget Submissions.

 

?         Section 2  addresses underlying principles and broad policy issues, derived largely from the RSL?s Standing Policy on Veterans? Affairs Matters.  Political party responses are sought to the propositions at the conclusion of this section.

 

?         Section 3  lists, broadly in priority order, a range of key proposals addressing present anomalies, inequities, and enhancements to our veterans? affairs support provisions.  Most of these have budgetary implications.  Responses are sought to each of these specific proposals.

 

?         Section 4  lists a number of other veteran concerns which we would wish to have recorded.  These will be the subject of ongoing representation.

 

The RSL remains apolitical.  We do not engage in political campaigning other than to notify our views as to what is important for Australia?s veterans.  We will work with all parties of the Parliament, and would wish to maintain a constructive and productive dialogue with the government of the day.

 

We invite your careful consideration of the issues at Sections 2, 3 and 4 of the enclosed, and your public responses.

 

 

 

 

 

Bill Crews

National President



Section 1

 

Returned & Services League of Australia

 

Background

 

During the early years of WW I, there was no single Government body formed to cater for the needs of the sick and wounded returning from the horrors of trench and desert warfare in Europe and the Middle East. While the Department of Repatriation was created in 1918, it was not until October 1976 that the Department of Veterans? Affairs was established.

 

Returning servicemen were alarmed at the lack of support available and began meeting in the various states of Australia to call for urgent action to rectify the situation.  Shortly thereafter, in 1916, the Returned Sailors and Soldiers Imperial League of Australia was established and adopted a set of ideals and objectives that focused essentially on mateship, preservation of the memory and records of those who suffered and died; and to provide for the sick, the wounded, and the needy.

 

By 1918 all states had joined the League, with the ACT Branch formed in 1927.  Name changes followed in later years to recognise the inclusion of airmen in 1940 and finally, in 1990, the name was changed to Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) with membership open to all serving and ex-service personnel, irrespective of operational service.

 

The RSL has always maintained a broad-based membership, containing representatives from all walks of Australian life.  Another facet of RSL membership has been the staunch support for the system of ?grass roots? input into policy.  The early days of the RSL were taken up with seeking improved employment opportunities and improved repatriation and welfare entitlements for returning and returned servicemen.  The emphasis today continues to be centred on improved entitlements and conditions for the retired and serving men and women of the Australian Defence Force.  Like our predecessors, the work of the League continues through peace and war.

 

In the words of Professor Ernest Scott, a well known Australian academic and author, ?The League is foremost in taking up these cases?. The League is considered by many to be the pre-eminent ex-service body with a firm focus on veteran welfare?.

 

Veterans? Welfare

 

The RSL has developed, over 91 years, a well established process for ensuring that it concentrates on veteran welfare matters of concern that have been identified and supported by the majority of the membership.

 

Any RSL member from around the country may raise issues of concern in relation to veteran affairs matters.  These matters are then discussed at the local Sub-Branch level where a consensus may be reached and a proposition, or motion, with an appropriate rationale is formulated and debated.

 

These motions form the basis for the development of an agenda of Veteran Affairs issues that is then considered at the State Congress of Sub-Branches.  Those that are ?carried? are then placed on the agenda of the National Congress of State Branches.  At National Congress, each motion is considered in turn and only those that receive a majority vote by the attending delegates are carried forward by the League.  These decisions are not made lightly. 

 

From this exhaustive process the RSL Veterans? Affairs policy is formulated and endorsed, and Budget submissions are developed.

 

Between National Congress meetings, veterans? issues of the League are dealt with by the National Veterans? Affairs Committee which meets on a quarterly basis.  Membership of this body consists of an independent chairman, the National Veterans? Affairs Advisor, the National President, the RSL State Presidents and their advisors.   Many matters affecting individual veterans are also dealt with routinely during the year by effective liaison between RSL State Branches and Department of Veterans? Affairs officers at the State or National level.

 

The RSL and the Community

 

Since our inception in 1916, the RSL has maintained a strong focus on the commemoration of those who have died or suffered in the service of our nation, and in inculcating in our community an understanding of the contribution to the development of our nation by those who have served in the Defence Forces.  More broadly, we seek to encourage in young Australians, a sense of pride in our nation and an appreciation of the responsibilities of citizenship.

 

Through these related endeavours, we better inform the wider community of the substantial sacrifices made to secure our freedom, and why those who have offered their services to this cause should be afforded special consideration.  In turn, this awareness underpins community acceptance of the special place, needs, and entitlements of veterans.



Section 2

 

Veterans? Affairs Principles and Broad Policy Issues

 

More than three million Australians are members of the Defence Community.  They include past service persons (veterans), those currently serving, and their families.

 

Those who serve our Nation in the Defence Force, whether as volunteers or through conscription, undertake the onerous task of ensuring the Nation?s security and the preservation of our way of life.  There is a real prospect of being placed in harm?s way and of being killed or seriously wounded in the course of this service.  Training for combat brings its own hazards as recent circumstances graphically demonstrate.

 

Australia?s Service and Ex-servicemen and women deserve special consideration because of the nature of their commitment.  Australia?s Government, in calling for men and women to serve and in placing them in harm?s way, carry a special obligation to support those who are damaged in the course of meeting the requests of the Government.  The willingness of men and women to serve in our Defence Force will be profoundly affected by how those people see the Government respond to the needs of those who suffer the consequences of their service.  And there is a reasonable expectation that the conditions under which they enlist and serve will be honoured.

 

The Government?s obligations are comprehensive and specific:

 

?         To ensure our servicemen and women are properly trained and equipped to fulfil the demands placed upon them.

?         To adequately assess and minimise the risk of environmental, physical and psychological damage to our servicemen and women in training and on operations.

?         To provide comprehensive health care support, both during service and on completion of service, for all conditions arising as a direct consequence of that service.

?         To take all necessary steps to restore full function and quality of life, through rehabilitation and other programs, for those wounded or damaged in the course of their service.

?         To provide compensation for long term pain and suffering, and permanent disability incurred as a consequence of service, and particularly to provide meaningful income support to those so damaged by their service that they are no longer able to engage in remunerative employment.

?         To ensure that any such payments made in the form of compensation retain their value over time.

?         To ensure that compensation payments are not taxed and are not included in any calculations for means testing purposes.

?         To ensure that superannuation provisions appropriately reflect he unique nature of military service, particularly retiring ages below community norms.

?         In recognition of the unique nature of military service, to ensure that the range of benefits available to servicemen and women are more generous than those available to the general community.

 

Warlike service incurs greater potential risk than non-warlike service.  Consequently, those who have undertaken warlike service deserve additional considerations:

 

?         Eligibility for the Service Pension.

?         To have the determination of causation of disabilities based on the reasonable hypothesis degree of proof.

?         The provision of a Gold Health (or Access) Card at age 70 years.

 

Non-warlike service should attract the ?balance of probabilities? degree of proof.

 

Families of servicemen and women carry burdens which apply to few in the wider community.  Apart from the prolonged absences and anxiety arising from operational deployment, and the ever-present prospect of harm to their parents and partners, families must accept the consequences arising from that service.  These consequences include dramatically changed behaviour, and physical and mental impairment.  It is the family which is most directly affected when a veteran returns from active service.  In many cases of significant disability, the partner is forced to give up paid employment to assume the role of carer.

 

While our repatriation arrangements have generally focussed on supporting veterans damaged in the course of their service, we should turn now also to the additional support requirements of the veterans? family, including any generational health impacts.

 

Repatriation and Service compensation provisions reflect the unique demands of the Service environment.  Consequently, they should not be seen as ?welfare? in the accepted community sense.  There is move to do so in some areas of government which we would strongly urge be resisted.  The greater the degree of harm or danger in which servicemen and women are placed, the more beneficial and unique should be the compensation provisions for those who are physically or psychologically damaged.

 

The community presently accepts the special position of veterans who have directly contributed to the nation?s security.  There is a willingness to meet the additional costs of veteran benefits because of this special provision.  It is essential therefore that credibility of the repatriation and service support regime be retained through consistency in its development and application, and equity in its delivery.

 

Proposition

 

The RSL asks political parties of the Federal Parliament to state whether they agree in whole or in part with the principles and propositions set out above:  if agreement is not comprehensive, then in what respect is there disagreement or reservation?

 



Section 3

 

Specific Proposals to Enhance Support to the Veteran Community

 

Set out below are a number of proposals drawn from resolutions of the League.  They are in priority order.  We consider that a positive response to these matters would resolve the significant concerns remaining in the veteran community.

 

Parliamentary Party responses are sought to each proposal.

 

1.         Indexation

 

There remains significant concern at the different indices used for adjustments to compensation and disability payments, and military pensions.  While the Consumer Price Index (CPI) is commonly used, it no longer has credibility as a true measure of the cost of living.  Senate Enquiries have reinforced this position, and those whose compensation payments are indexed solely by this method have seen a progressive loss in value of their payments relative to that which existed when the payment was first made.

 

Male Total Average Weekly Earnings (MTAWE) is now seen as a more accurate measure of both community wage movements and the real cost of living.  An alternative index may be Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE).

 

It is relevant that the Aged and Service Pensions, while indexed by CPI, have a safety net provision that they will not fall below 25% of MTAWE.  It follows that if MTAWE has been seen as a more appropriate and relevant index to sustain the value of these payments, then MTAWE should be used for all other service disability and income support payments.  The use of a standard index such as MTAWE would achieve equity across the range of disability and pension payments, and with pension schemes in the wider community.

 

Application of this principle would directly affect the following Defence Service related payments :

 

General Rate Disability Payments : with flow on to the Extreme Disablement Adjustment, presently set at 150% of the maximum rate of Disability Payment.
The Intermediate Rate Pension and Special Rate Pension: covered in more detail at Item 2 below.
Military Superannuation under the DFRDB and MSBS schemes: covered further at Item 5 below.
 

2.         The Special Rate Pension

 

Full endorsement of the proposal at Item 1 would represent a satisfactory response to the indexation concerns of Special Rate Pensioners, recognising particularly that those who are Totally and Permanently Incapacitated have lost their ability to engage in remunerative employment through defence-caused disabilities.

 

Should the proposal at Item 1 not be accepted in respect of the Special Rate Pension, then we propose benchmarking this payment at 47% of MTAWE, the relative position it held in 1997 when changes were made to the indexation of the aged pension.  Such an approach would remove the need for any further one-off ?catch-up? payments.

 

Further, we remain concerned that those who are placed on the Special Rate Pension at a young age will experience difficulties greater than other TPI.  Younger TPI have not had the opportunity to establish a capital base in terms of home equity or superannuation assets, they are likely to have young children, and their partners may be limited in their ability to earn an income through the need to provide ongoing care.  Accordingly, a range of measures are proposed to assist younger TPI veterans :



An increase in allowances for non-working dependants up to the age of 21.
Provision of private health insurance coverage for the family
Access to any preserved superannuation assets
Revised carer payments and allowances to better reflect their special contribution to the on-going welfare of the veteran or ex-serviceman or woman.
 

3.         Transition Management

 

The RSL particularly endorses the proposal contained in the Combined ESO submission on this item.  Experience clearly demonstrates that separation from the Service is a critical step likely to have serious impacts on physical and psychological well-being if not properly managed.  Accordingly, deficiencies in the following processes should now be rectified, and the RSL stands willing to engage directly with the ADF and DVA in assisting this process; particularly through the recently launched Integrated People Support Strategy:

 

Appropriate invalidity and other financial entitlements are in place to ensure discharging personnel can access these without delay.
Any adverse medical conditions arising from service have been identified and adequately recorded in ADF service documents.
Appropriate treatment and rehabilitation programs have been instituted and will continue without interruption.
Servicemen and women are offered comprehensive relevant financial advice, vocational support, and family assistance to ensure a smooth transition from the Service.
Servicemen and women are provided with comprehensive advice on how they may access medical and other support services post separation when the need arises;
Provision of timely follow-up by the Services to ensure that any residual issues are quickly resolved.
 

4.         Accommodation Assistance for Younger Veterans with Mental Health Related Special Needs

 

During 2004/2006, RSL Care (Queensland) sponsored a veterans? mental health project  ?to provide a rehabilitation continuum for veterans experiencing the effects of mental illness, involving effective treatment in their local communities?.  The project sought a case management approach.

 

Recommendation 5 sought DVA support, including funding, for appropriate community accommodation

models to meet the needs of veterans with mental health issues.

 

While general funding has been provided to the States in response to this recommendation, access to such

accommodation remains beyond the means of most veterans who must concurrently maintain a family in

separate accommodation, particularly if their income includes only disability or Special Rate compensation

payments.

 

While it is expected that few such cases would arise, when they do, they represent a crisis for the veteran

who can no longer live at home with his family.

 

We seek a capacity for the Department to effectively manage such cases through special accommodation

subsidy provisions.

 

5.         Military Superannuation

 

A full and positive response to Item 1, indexation of military superannuation using MTAWE, would

overcome one of the significant concerns raised by the Ex-Service community with the Military Superannuation Review Team.

 

Military superannuants see their pension payments progressively losing value relative to present salary levels, and public pensions such as the aged and service pensions.  Concern is exacerbated by the introduction of simpler superannuation arrangements for accumulation schemes.  While acknowledging the 10% rebate which will substantially reduce tax payable, the inclusion of the pension paid as taxable income, in the knowledge that all accumulation scheme payments need no longer be even declared, has caused considerable concerns on the basis of equity.

 

In its submission to the Military Superannuation Review, the RSL put forward a number of proposals including the following.  They are now presented to seek Parliamentary Party acceptance, notwithstanding that the outcome of the Military Superannuation Review is not yet known :

 

Military Pensions and Preserved Benefits should be indexed to MTAWE.
The current ?Life Tables? used in the calculation of DFRB & DFRDB pension and associated commutation calculations should be replaced by the most recent life tables available.
A complete review of all current DFRB & DFRDB pensions, including reversionary benefits, should be completed using these contemporary life tables and revised pensions should be applied prospectively from an appropriate date.
In the context of the Government?s Simplified Superannuation legislation, amendment to taxation legislation to enable all invalidity pension payments for recipients medically discharged from the ADF, as a result of disabilities caused or aggravated by military service and in receipt of a Class A incapacity assessment by ComSuper, and any associated reversionary benefits to dependents to be:
-    tax exempt from the recipient?s date of medical discharge in prospective cases; or

-    tax exempt from date of effect of new provisions for current recipients.

?           Compulsory Retirement Ages and Preservation Ages for ADF members be aligned to avoid disadvantage.

?           Simpler Super tax treatments should be correlated with both military career patterns and

       associated military retirement schemes and reversionary benefits.

?           Include the full period of a member?s service when calculating pension entitlements, instead of just the number of completed years.

?           Calculate the DFRDB pensions using the same formula as for DFRB, MSBS, CSS and PSS schemes.

?           Reduce the qualifying period for eligibility for reversionary spouse pensions to three years.

 

6.         Ageing with Dignity and Choice

 

The RSL is committed to ensuring that veterans, their families and carers are supported to age with dignity, control and independence and are able to contribute to the community and enjoy the full benefits of citizenship.

 

Because of the high numbers of World War II veterans:

The veteran population is ageing faster than the general population.
Currently, 46% of Australian men over 80 years are DVA entitled veterans.
The number of older veterans and war widows with dementia is also increasing.
The male/female ratio is changing as the number of widows increases.
The number of veterans and war widows living alone is increasing.
 

Of the DVA treatment population, currently more than 300,000 veterans and war widows are over 85 years of age.  However, similar to the Aged Care Act 1997 criteria for ?special needs status?, the RSL mission extends to serving a much larger ex-service community including:

Non-entitled former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF),
Widows whose husbands did not die from war related injuries, and
Veterans of allied forces without reciprocal arrangements.
 

Like other older Australians, growing numbers of ageing veterans and war widows are choosing to remain in their own homes or other independent living situations and avoid, or at least delay, admission to residential care.  To achieve this they need the support of a comprehensive and easily accessible network of flexible and affordable community services.  However, feedback across the veteran community highlights significant gaps in existing services.  Issues include:

The need for a higher ratio of community services packages. 
Despite the increase in the number or Commonwealth funded Community Aged Care Packages (CACPs) in February 2007, the ratio remains inadequate.  Statistics show that approximately 10% of persons over 70 years of age live in residential aged care.  This means that only around 20% of the Commonwealth Government aged care program is available to the other 80-90% who wish to remain in the community.

The need for higher subsidies for CACPs.
The care and services purchasing power of CACPs has decreased over the last 10 years and as care needs become more complex, current subsidy levels are inadequate and frequently necessitate making choices between what care and services can be afforded.

The need to remove ?barriers? to veterans and war widows accessing non-DVA aged care services when they need them.
These include:

-    Co-payments  ?  there is an increased cost to the veteran/war widow when he/she leaves DVA Veterans Home Care (VHC) and moves to CACP.

-    Culture of the veteran community  -  some veterans consider that only DVA operated services are able to understand their special needs and provide quality care, or they prefer to stay with DVA as they know how ?the system works?.

-    VHC can appear to be a better ?deal?.  When moving to a CACP, some services that are subsidised for HACC and VHC clients must be fully paid for from the CACPs? budget, e.g. meals on wheels, planned activity groups.  When the cost for much needed higher levels of care such as case management are deducted from the CACPs? budget, the balance may not cover these original services.

-    Aged Care Assessment Services (ACAS)  -  there are major differences in the operating procedures of ACAS teams.  In some parts of Australia veterans and war widows have to wait between three and six months for eligibility assessments for CACPs.

 



Section 4

 

Other Proposals Requiring Attention

 

Listed below are other issues which the veteran community would wish to progress during the term of the next government.  They are not in priority order.

 

Pharmaceuticals.     While the Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme offers some advantages over the PBS, there is growing concern at the escalating levels of co-payment, particularly in respect of pharmaceuticals required for specific defence-caused conditions.  The Pharmaceutical Allowance rarely compensates fully for the co-payment.  We would seek the provision of pharmaceuticals for defence-caused conditions at no cost, and adjustment of the Pharmaceutical Allowance so that it continues to compensate for the bulk of the co-payment for other items.

 

Younger War Widows.     Currently, war widows under the age of 58 without dependants are generally not entitled to the Income Support Supplement; it being assumed that they are able to re-join the workforce.  This is seen as discriminatory and needs to be corrected.

 

Carers.     Veteran wellbeing is directly related to the level and quality of family support available.  Partners and carers play a key role in holding families together and looking after their spouses who have been physically or mentally disabled.  In this role, they are often denied the opportunity to engage in remunerative employment.  We seek a review of carer payments, allowances and provisions, to accurately reflect their needs and significant contribution.

 

Integrated Service Delivery.     Presently some veterans are required to deal with multiple agencies in assessing their entitlements.  These may include Defence, DVA, Comsuper, Centrelink, and others.  Each organisation has its own regulations and guidelines, placing veterans in the invidious position of potentially requiring multiple medical assessments and leading to inconsistent outcomes in respect of entitlement or employability.  This causes considerable stress at a most vulnerable time.  We seek an integration of these procedures to achieve a more effective, efficient, and consistent set of outcomes.

 




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Veterans will encourage young Australians not to enlist
under current circumstances.

From: Keith Tennent

To: Royal Aust GP Mental Health ; Royal Aust College of GPs ; AMA ; Dr Rod Bain ; EDA President ; RSL Nat President ; Capricornia RSL President ; VVAA Sunshine Coast ; TVille VVFA ; Qld VVFA ; PVA Research and Benefits Member ; WA TPI ; ACT TPI ; PVA Secretary ; ACT RSL ; Barry Billing NSW VVAA ; RSL National ; NSW RSL ; NSW TPI ; Queensland RSL ; TPI Federation ; Vic TPI ; Victorian RSL ; VVFA National ; WA RSL ; Nat Coordinator Program ASIST ; President Pioneer-Fitzroy-Highlands RSL District ; Capricornia RSL Secretary ; Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List

Cc: Ian McPhedran News Ltd ; Paul Dyer Journo News Limited ; Sasha Uzunov Freelance Journo ; Edith Bevan Journo ; Mike Carey SBS ; Paul Cutler SBS ; Hugo Kelly Journo ; Paul Murray ; Alison Rehn Journo ; Qld Courier Mail Editor ; Frank Walker Fairfax ; Michael McKenna Australian ; Neil Wilson Herald Journo ; Michael Bailey Radio 4RO ; K Stevenson ; Chris Masters ; Main Veterans List ; Federal Parliamentary List

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2007 10:40 AM
Subject: Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study (COVVHS)


From: Matheson Family
Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2007 10:34 AM
Subject: Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study (COVVHS)


An update

Hello all,
The Minister for Veterans Affairs, Mr Bruce Billson announced recently that;

 ?The Howard Government will undertake world-first research into the impact of war service on the health and welfare of the children of Vietnam veterans?.

Announcing a $13.5 million research program, Minister for Veterans? Affairs, Bruce Billson, said the ?Vietnam Veteran Family Study provides an innovative, integrated and holistic approach to the health of veterans? families?.

COVVHS would like to thank you, veterans and families, for the many thousands of congratulatory emails. They were very much appreciated.

The study is a great move forward for the veteran?s community; however this is only the next step in a long process.

 

COVVHS would like to give a huge thanks to Professor Hedley Peach, who has given so much of his valuable time, freely.

 

Professor Peach has provided expertise to both the veteran community and the Government. His unbiased contribution has provided a much needed perspective and understanding of the issues that were involved. This from a person with an international reputation in the field of Public Health and Epidemiology has been incredibly helpful not only to COVVHS but other ESO groups.

 

COVVHS have some questions regarding the Protocol, but feel that the time to address those questions is at the Consultative forum level as each tier of research is being prepared by the Institute that wins the tender.

 

We must take the Minister on ?face value?. At the DVA organised telelink, he stated that this study would be ?world class?. Having given 13.5 million dollars towards such a health study, we must have trust that this will be so.

 

We feel it is most important that the veteran community remain united to get this health study 'off and running' ASAP.

 

However there is one aspect that has not been addressed yet. That is the ongoing involvement of ?the stakeholders? ie the veterans, their partners and the sons and daughters.

 

The conduct of the Vietnam Veteran Family Study (The Intergenerational Health Effects of Service in the Military, July 2007) should have veteran community involvement. It is important that Minister Billson now shows faith in us and appoints representative members to a Consultative Forum.

 

The CMVH says inter alia (see Research Protocol document; http://www.dva.gov.au/media/publicat/2007/ihesm/index.htm ) that it doesn?t know how to contact Vietnam veterans or their families; ......the CMVH knows that the COVVHS offer to email the nearly 30,000 email addresses that have registered on the COVVHS web site still stands.

 

COVVHS will write to remind Minister Billson of the veteran community requirements of a Consultative Forum.


Kind regards,
David Matheson
President, COVVHS

http://www.svsg.org.au/links.htm
www.covvhs.org.au


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From: Ted McEvoy
Sent: Thursday, August 16, 2007 1:27 PM
Subject: Media Release VA124 - WORLD-FIRST STUDY TO EXAMINE HEALTH OF CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]


 
 Minister for Veterans? Affairs Mailing List.
VA124   Thursday 16 August 2007

WORLD-FIRST STUDY TO EXAMINE HEALTH OF CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS

The Howard Government will undertake world-first research into the impact of war service on the health and welfare of the children of Vietnam veterans.

Announcing a $13.5 million research program, Minister for Veterans? Affairs, Bruce Billson, said the Vietnam Veteran Family Study provides an innovative, integrated and holistic approach to the health of veterans? families.

?Australia is at the forefront of veteran health and compensation, but we have limited knowledge about the intergenerational effects of war service.  A study of this kind has never been done and Australia will lead the rest of the world in this field,? Mr Billson said.

?The Vietnam Veteran Family Study will study the health and welfare of around 200,000 parents and children participants to identify protective factors and those characteristics which help build resilience in families of veterans.

?This wide ranging study will also provide us with an insight into the health of children of Vietnam veterans, informing the delivery of services that will assist the families of future service personnel.

?The Vietnam Veteran Family Study will be undertaken in a tiered approach, involving qualitative and quantitative research over an eight year period, with some initial results available as early as 2009.?

Mr Billson said that yet again Vietnam veterans were the catalyst for innovation in veteran health.

?The now well-established legacy of Vietnam veterans is continuing through this extensive study program which will further enhance our world-class repatriation system,? Mr Billson said.

?Today the Australian Defence Force has an active Defence Community Organisation which provides a range of support programs for families, before, during and after deployment.  To support this work, the Department of Veterans? Affairs will also commence a study to monitor the health of families of more recently deployed veterans.

?The research program will provide useful information to inform government of the effectiveness of current programs and areas for further policy development.?

The Australian Government currently provides around $10 million a year for a range of services to children of Vietnam veterans, including mental health support through VVCS, medical support through the Vietnam Veterans Children?s Support Program and educational support through the Veterans? Children Education Scheme and the Long Tan Bursary.

Media inquiries: Cameron Hill  0408 239 521

Editors note: Fact Sheet follows.

Fact Sheet

Vietnam Veteran Family Study

What will the study examine?

This study will examine the physical, mental and social health of the families of Vietnam veterans. It will involve both qualitative and quantitative research techniques to identify protective and risk factors. It will provide a comprehensive picture of the health status of this group. The study will also examine suicide rates amongst children of Vietnam veterans.

How many people will be studied?

The study will survey up to 200,000 people, including Vietnam veterans, their families and relevant comparison groups to enable adjustment for both genetics and war service.

How will the study be implemented?

The study will use a tiered approach to enable individual study components to be completed at different stages.  The first qualitative component of the study will be able to commence in the near future with results expected during 2009.

The first step prior to any additional data collection for the health study will be to compile a study roll and contact details of the participants. This process will be commencing shortly and will enable additional study components to commence during 2010.

The tiered approach enables research to be conducted in manageable and achievable stages and results will be progressively available for dissemination.

How long till results are available?

The first results will be available during 2009 with results on other elements of study to be completed by 2016.

Who will undertake the study?

The Department will contract appropriately qualified and experienced research organisations to undertake the qualitative and quantitative studies.

Will all Vietnam veterans and their families be studied and will the Department register individuals for participation in the study?

No.  In line with sound scientific research approaches, the Department will develop a study roll from a randomised sample of Vietnam veterans.


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********************

From: Hilton, Rod (A. Griffin, MP)
Sent: Thursday, August 16, 2007 2:30 PM
Subject: ALAN GRIFFIN MP - MEDIA RELEASE - AUGUST 16, 2007


Media Release

ALAN GRIFFIN MP

Shadow Minister for Veterans? Affairs

Federal Member for Bruce



LABOR WELCOMES GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCEMENT OF RESEARCH PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS



The Shadow Minister for Veterans? Affairs, Alan Griffin, today welcomed the Government?s announcement of a Vietnam Veteran Family Study. 

The announcement came following the Government?s response to the long awaited research protocol study conducted by the Centre for Military and Veterans? Health.

Labor will be examining the details of what the Government has proposed and will consult representatives from the ex-service community. I have also requested a briefing from the Minister?s office on this issue.

However, at first glance this is a significant commitment and a major and positive step forward.

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Veterans will encourage young Australians not to enlist
under current circumstances.

*******************

From: J & A Hevey
To: 'Billson, Bruce (MP)'
Sent: Thursday, August 16, 2007 3:53 PM
Subject: Fw: ALAN GRIFFIN MP - MEDIA RELEASE - AUGUST 16, 2007


Minister
 
Please accept my sincere congratulations on finally releasing your recommendations on the conduct of the Vietnam Veterans Families Health Study.  This is a positive step and is recognised by all Veterans as such.
 
The fact that you took heed of the urgings of those Veterans and family groups directly involved, not to indulge this matter as a vote winning - pork barrelling exercise (like the Clarke report was used by the coalition) is also to be congratulated.
 
However minister, yourself and the coalition have a lot of ground to catch up on as far as Veterans Entitlements are concerned as you well know.  Minister the report on Defence Force Superannuation and DFRDB/DFRDBF, is due to hit your desk within the next two to three weeks.  Again minister, deal with this matter promptly (don't spin it out for weeks on end) and do not even attempt to use it and your recommendations as an election vote grabber or a pork barrelling exercise, Veteran Superannuants also remember well, how Clarke was used in the last election and will not countenance any such attempts on your behalf or that of the Government on this issue.
 
Oh and by the way minister, if the CPI is such a great method of indexation - why is it not applied to politicians superannuation?.
 
An answer in your own time if you please minister. 
 
Regards
John Hevey
 
 
From: Hilton, Rod (A. Griffin, MP)
Sent: Thursday, August 16, 2007 2:30 PM
Subject: ALAN GRIFFIN MP - MEDIA RELEASE - AUGUST 16, 2007


Media Release

ALAN GRIFFIN MP

Shadow Minister for Veterans? Affairs

Federal Member for Bruce



LABOR WELCOMES GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCEMENT OF RESEARCH PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS


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Veterans will encourage young Australians not to enlist
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******************
From: Matheson Family
Sent: Thursday, August 16, 2007 5:47 PM
Subject: Media Release VA124 - WORLD-FIRST STUDY TO EXAMINE HEALTH OF CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]


Hello all,
I thank Minister Billson for his personal commitment to the study into the health of the sons and daughters of Vietnam veterans, and other conflicts (see below).
 
 
Despite the use of "sharp sticks" on occasions COVVHS hopes that he can accept that this is very emotional and important also thank you to former Minister, Mrs Dana Vale for putting this issue back onto the agenda.
 
 
The Ministers progression of this study is very important and we look forward to further understand the specifics of the study!
 
 
The PVA National Children's Health spokesperson & COVVHS member Mrs Sue Parker will be commenting about the study on the ABC 7.30 Report this evening.
The Research Protocol is available at;
 
http://www.dva.gov.au/media/publicat/2007/ihesm/index.htm  and is about 400 pages;
COVVHS will make a formal statement in regards to the study after we have fully reviewed the protocol, probably mid next week.
 
 
Kind regards,
David Matheson
President COVVHS 
 
http://www.svsg.org.au/links.htm
www.covvhs.org.au
 
 
From: DVA Mailing List
To: minister-media@dva.aaa.net.au
Sent: Thursday, August 16, 2007 12:05 PM
Subject: Media Release VA124 - WORLD-FIRST STUDY TO EXAMINE HEALTH OF CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]


Minister for Veterans? Affairs Mailing List.



VA124   Thursday 16 August 2007


WORLD-FIRST STUDY TO EXAMINE HEALTH OF CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS


The Howard Government will undertake world-first research into the impact of war service on the health and welfare of the children of Vietnam veterans.

Announcing a $13.5 million research program, Minister for Veterans? Affairs, Bruce Billson, said the Vietnam Veteran Family Study provides an innovative, integrated and holistic approach to the health of veterans? families.

?Australia is at the forefront of veteran health and compensation, but we have limited knowledge about the intergenerational effects of war service.  A study of this kind has never been done and Australia will lead the rest of the world in this field,? Mr Billson said.

?The Vietnam Veteran Family Study will study the health and welfare of around 200,000 parents and children participants to identify protective factors and those characteristics which help build resilience in families of veterans.

?This wide ranging study will also provide us with an insight into the health of children of Vietnam veterans, informing the delivery of services that will assist the families of future service personnel.

?The Vietnam Veteran Family Study will be undertaken in a tiered approach, involving qualitative and quantitative research over an eight year period, with some initial results available as early as 2009.?

Mr Billson said that yet again Vietnam veterans were the catalyst for innovation in veteran health.

?The now well-established legacy of Vietnam veterans is continuing through this extensive study program which will further enhance our world-class repatriation system,? Mr Billson said.

?Today the Australian Defence Force has an active Defence Community Organisation which provides a range of support programs for families, before, during and after deployment.  To support this work, the Department of Veterans? Affairs will also commence a study to monitor the health of families of more recently deployed veterans.

?The research program will provide useful information to inform government of the effectiveness of current programs and areas for further policy development.?

The Australian Government currently provides around $10 million a year for a range of services to children of Vietnam veterans, including mental health support through VVCS, medical support through the Vietnam Veterans Children?s Support Program and educational support through the Veterans? Children Education Scheme and the Long Tan Bursary.


Media inquiries: Cameron Hill  0408 239 521

Editors note: Fact Sheet follows.

Fact Sheet


Vietnam Veteran Family Study


What will the study examine?


This study will examine the physical, mental and social health of the families of Vietnam veterans. It will involve both qualitative and quantitative research techniques to identify protective and risk factors. It will provide a comprehensive picture of the health status of this group. The study will also examine suicide rates amongst children of Vietnam veterans.

How many people will be studied?


The study will survey up to 200,000 people, including Vietnam veterans, their families and relevant comparison groups to enable adjustment for both genetics and war service.

How will the study be implemented?


The study will use a tiered approach to enable individual study components to be completed at different stages.  The first qualitative component of the study will be able to commence in the near future with results expected during 2009.

The first step prior to any additional data collection for the health study will be to compile a study roll and contact details of the participants. This process will be commencing shortly and will enable additional study components to commence during 2010.

The tiered approach enables research to be conducted in manageable and achievable stages and results will be progressively available for dissemination.

How long till results are available?


The first results will be available during 2009 with results on other elements of study to be completed by 2016.

Who will undertake the study?


The Department will contract appropriately qualified and experienced research organisations to undertake the qualitative and quantitative studies.

Will all Vietnam veterans and their families be studied and will the Department register individuals for participation in the study?


No.  In line with sound scientific research approaches, the Department will develop a study roll from a randomised sample of Vietnam veterans.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

IMPORTANT
1. Before opening any attachments, please check for viruses.
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3. Any views expressed in this e-mail are those of the sender and are not
a statement of Australian Government Policy unless otherwise stated.
4. Electronic addresses published in this email are not conspicuous publications
and DVA does not consent to the receipt of commercial electronic messages.
5. Please go to http://www.dva.gov.au/feedback.htm#sub to unsubscribe emails
of this type from DVA.
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Veterans will encourage young Australians not to enlist
under current circumstances.

***********************

From: Keith Tennent

To: Dr Rod Bain ; EDA President ; RSL Nat President ; Capricornia RSL President ; VVAA Sunshine Coast ; TVille VVFA ; Qld VVFA ; PVA Research and Benefits Member ; WA TPI ; ACT TPI ; PVA Secretary ; ACT RSL ; Barry Billing NSW VVAA ; RSL National ; NSW RSL ; NSW TPI ; Queensland RSL ; TPI Federation ; Vic TPI ; Victorian RSL ; VVFA National ; WA RSL ; Nat Coordinator Program ASIST ; President Pioneer-Fitzroy-Highlands RSL District ; Capricornia RSL Secretary ; Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List

Cc: Main Veterans List ; Federal Parliamentary List

Sent: Friday, August 10, 2007 7:19 PM
Subject: Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study (COVVHS)


From: Matheson Family
Sent: Friday, August 10, 2007 7:12 PM
Subject: Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study (COVVHS)

Hello all,

On Sunday 12th August at 9AM the program "Sunday" will feature a segment on the Partners of Veterans and their families filmed partly at the Partners of Veterans Association of Australia, Melton Branch.
 
Further,
 
I have today written to Minister Billson, below inter alia, is part of that letter;
 
"Therefore I look forward to you undertaking further action as you have outlined in your letter to Mrs. Parker dated 3rd August, 2007.

These are:

1. A date for the consultative forum meeting; and

2. Following that meeting and consultation, an announcement of the actual approach to a study that the Government is prepared to commit to.  We need timelines for the conduct of a study, detail of how it will be undertaken and a clear financial commitment to ensure that it can be done.

COVVHS seek these responses from you Minister, as a matter of urgency."



Kind regards,

David Matheson

President, COVVHS


http://www.svsg.org.au/links.htm
www.covvhs.org.au

**************

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Veterans will encourage young Australians not to enlist
under current circumstances.

From: Keith Tennent

To: Dr Rod Bain ; EDA President ; RSL Nat President ; Capricornia RSL President ; VVAA Sunshine Coast ; TVille VVFA ; Qld VVFA ; PVA Research and Benefits Member ; WA TPI ; ACT TPI ; PVA Secretary ; ACT RSL ; Barry Billing NSW VVAA ; RSL National ; NSW RSL ; NSW TPI ; Queensland RSL ; TPI Federation ; Vic TPI ; Victorian RSL ; VVFA National ; WA RSL ; Nat Coordinator Program ASIST ; President Pioneer-Fitzroy-Highlands RSL District ; Capricornia RSL Secretary ; Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List

Cc: Federal Parliamentary List ; Main Veterans List ; Ian McPhedran News Ltd ; Paul Dyer Journo News Limited ; Sasha Uzunov Freelance Journo ; Edith Bevan Journo ; Mike Carey SBS ; Paul Cutler SBS ; Hugo Kelly Journo ; Paul Murray ; Alison Rehn Journo ; Qld Courier Mail Editor ; Frank Walker Fairfax ; Michael McKenna Australian ; Neil Wilson Herald Journo ; Michael Bailey Radio 4RO ; K Stevenson ; Chris Masters

Sent: Friday, August 03, 2007 2:59 PM
Subject: ALAN GRIFFIN MEDIA RELEASE - THE GOVERNMENT MUST TAKE ACTION ON PROPOSED STUDY INTO THE HEALTH OF CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS - 3 AUGUST


From: Hilton, Rod (A. Griffin, MP)
Sent: Friday, August 03, 2007 2:55 PM
Subject: ALAN GRIFFIN MEDIA RELEASE - THE GOVERNMENT MUST TAKE ACTION ON PROPOSED STUDY INTO THE HEALTH OF CHILDREN OF VIETNAM VETERANS - 3 AUGUST




Media Release

ALAN GRIFFIN MP

Shadow Minister for Veterans? Affairs

Federal Member for Bruce

The government must take action on proposed study into the health of children of vietnam veterans

Alan Griffin, Shadow Minister for Veterans Affairs has again called on the Government to take action in regards to a study into the health of Children of Vietnam Veterans.

A Rudd Labor Government has already committed to undertaking a study into the health of Children of Vietnam Veterans. 

The protocol study from the Centre for Military and Veterans Health was due to be handed to the Department on the 30 June 2007.  It is now over a month since that date has passed.

Minister Billson had previously promised interested parties that he would reconvene the original consultative forum from the feasibility study in the first two weeks of July to discuss these results.  This is a promise that he has failed to keep.

At the recent ACT, West Australian, Victorian and South Australian RSL Congresses I called on the Minister to reconvene this forum.  He has refused to respond to my requests. 

I again call on the Minister to immediately reconvene the original consultative forum from the feasibility study and brief them on the results.  The Minister has been rightly criticised before about his lack of consultation with the Veterans? community on this issue. He must ensure that he is honest with the ex-service community about the Government?s intentions towards this study.

A Rudd Labor Government will ensure that any study conducted will be open and transparent.  Labor will commit to have ongoing consultation with the original consultative forum and provide regular status reports to the ex-service community throughout all phases of the study. 

The facts are clear ? a study into the health of children of Vietnam Veterans can be conducted and will be very worthwhile. Therefore it should be understood that there is no reason why the Minister cannot publicly commit to a study being conducted by the Howard Government.

I urge the Minister to respond to the protocol study as a matter of urgency to ensure that the Government?s position is clear before the election.  A study of this importance should be above politics and I am prepared to offer the Government full bipartisan support for any concrete action they take on this issue. 

Vietnam Veterans have very real concerns regarding the health of their children.  An independent study found in 1999 that children of Vietnam veterans have a suicide rate three times higher than the rest of the general population.

This is an important issue not just for the Vietnam Veterans? community but for the wider Veterans? community.  It goes to the heart of how we value and treat the families of our Veterans and recognise the personal costs to them of ADF service.   

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Veterans will encourage young Australians not to enlist
under current circumstances.

From: Keith Tennent

To: Main Veterans List

Cc: Dr Rod Bain ; EDA President ; RSL Nat President ; Capricornia RSL President ; VVAA Sunshine Coast ; TVille VVFA ; Qld VVFA ; PVA Research and Benefits Member ; WA TPI ; ACT TPI ; PVA Secretary ; ACT RSL ; Barry Billing NSW VVAA ; RSL National ; NSW RSL ; NSW TPI ; Queensland RSL ; TPI Federation ; Vic TPI ; Victorian RSL ; VVFA National ; WA RSL ; Nat Coordinator Program ASIST ; President Pioneer-Fitzroy-Highlands RSL District ; Capricornia RSL Secretary

Sent: Wednesday, August 01, 2007 8:06 PM
Subject: Thank you - Alan Griffin


From: Ted McEvoy
Sent: Wednesday, August 01, 2007 7:26 PM
Subject: Thank you - Alan Griffin


G'Day All,

As a matter of interest, I sent an email to Alan Griffin (Shadow Minister for Vet Affairs) today with a message that the author of the letter below was feeling very sad and frustrated.

Alan gave Sue Parker a call today to offer encouragement. I for one, dips me lid to him. To me, it's a freshing sign that a bloke who is flat out with the lead-up to the forthcoming Federal Election, can take the time out of his busy day to ring Sue.

It's London to a Brick that Minister Billson has done the same.

Thank you Alan.

Ted McEvoy
Email: tedmac@iinet.net.au

 
From: Matheson Family
Sent: Wednesday, August 01, 2007 1:48 PM
Subject: COVVHS report (Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study)



  1st August, 2007
 

To all members of the veteran community who have supported COVVHS.

 

It is with great sadness, that I write this report.



When COVVHS was formed in 2003, we honestly believed we had a reasonable request.

In 2004, we asked the government a simple question:

 

Is there a higher incidence of chronic health conditions in the sons and daughters of Vietnam veterans than their peers?

If so what can be done to help these young members of society. And what can be done to stop this continuing in the children of younger veterans?

 

The former Minister for veteran Affairs, Mrs. Dana Vale instigated the feasibility study in 2004. Since that time, thousands of veterans and their children have informed COVVHS of their calamitous health problems and are waiting for some action.

 

An eminent panel of scientists, appointed by the government, has recommended that such a study was feasible and was worthy of doing. They reported to the Minister for Veteran Affairs, Bruce Billson in September 2006.

 

Instead of following the recommendations the Minister took another line.  He formed another panel of experts to readdress the issue.

 

One he said would deliver quicker results!

 


If you read the Ministers speech to the 92nd State Congress of the RSL Victoria branch 4th July 2007. On page 6 he talks of the health issues and reasons surrounding his decisions. He puts a reasonable case. But is it really true?

The Minister chooses his words carefully and takes parts of the original scientists report, out of context. Had he accepted their recommendation we would be well along the way to knowing the health status of our children.

The minister talks of caring and compassion. He has not responded to any of us?other than one phone call to the COVVHS Chairperson to complain vigorously that we were clogging up his Fax machines!!

 

When we started this journey, I really believed that we lived in a true and just society.

What a naive individual I was!!

When governments can play with words to their own justification, what hope do we have?

When a Minister can sit in front of a group of women and agree to do something and then completely ignore that offer and not even have the courtesy to reply to them as to why he has reneged. (I refer to the meeting with members of the PVA in April, this year)

We are being treated with utter contempt by the Government and Ministry for Veteran Affairs.

 

I can only hope the ?pen is mightier than the sword? when the Election comes.

 

I can only hope the next government will have more understanding of what is right and follow through on issues that are ethically and morally correct.

 

What hope have we as a community when the government spends literally hundreds of thousands of dollars to fight one World War 2 widow who only wants a war widow?s pension??

 

To all of the veteran community whose hopes I have raised and once again we have been let down, I humbly apologise.

 

Early in this venture, I received an a-mail from someone who wished me luck, but said she doubted we would get anywhere as it has been tried in the past and failed. I would hate to think she proves to be right!

 

Our men, and now women, who are sent to fight for their wonderful Australia are still just ?canon fodder? and so are their families.

 

I make no apologies for any of this message. It just saddens me greatly that this government throws a pittance of dollars for projects to keep ?the veterans? quiet and millions of dollars for ?cold hard monuments?.



Surely something really productive could be done for the health of our warm breathing innocent children and their families.

 

I guess honest caring groups of people will continue to be overpowered by the ?wordsmiths? of Parliament!

 

Sincerely

Sue Parker

Mother

National PVA children?s health spokesperson.

COVVHS member


http://www.svsg.org.au/links.htm
www.covvhs.org.au
Please feel free to forward this email onto any Vietnam veteran and their family members that you know!


The Prime Minister, Mr John Howard

Email;

Canberra;         Tel: (02) 6277 7700
                        Fax: (02) 6273 4100

Electorate;        Tel: (02) 8226 8400
                        Fax: (02) 9251 5454

 

Minister for Veterans Affairs, Mr Bruce Billson

Email B.Billson.MP@aph.gov.au

Canberra;         Tel (02) 6277 7820   

                        Fax (02) 6273 4140   

Electorate;        Tel (03) 9781 2333

                        Fax (03) 9783 7912

 

Minister for Defence, Dr Brendan Nelson

Email b.nelson.mp@aph.gov.au

Canberra;         Tel: (02) 6277 7800
                        Fax: (02) 6273 4118

Electorate;        Tel: (02) 9465 3950
                        Fax: (02) 9465 3999



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Veterans will encourage young Australians not to enlist
under current circumstances.

From: Keith Tennent

To: Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List

Cc: Federal Parliamentary List ; Main Veterans List ; Ian McPhedran News Ltd ; Paul Dyer Journo News Limited ; Sasha Uzunov Freelance Journo ; Edith Bevan Journo ; Mike Carey SBS ; Paul Cutler SBS ; Hugo Kelly Journo ; Paul Murray ; Alison Rehn Journo ; Qld Courier Mail Editor ; Frank Walker Fairfax ; Michael McKenna Australian ; Neil Wilson Herald Journo ; Michael Bailey Radio 4RO ; K Stevenson ; Chris Masters ; Dr Rod Bain ; EDA President ; RSL Nat President ; Capricornia RSL President ; VVAA Sunshine Coast ; TVille VVFA ; Qld VVFA ; PVA Research and Benefits Member ; WA TPI ; ACT TPI ; PVA Secretary ; ACT RSL ; Barry Billing NSW VVAA ; RSL National ; NSW RSL ; NSW TPI ; Queensland RSL ; TPI Federation ; Vic TPI ; Victorian RSL ; VVFA National ; WA RSL ; Nat Coordinator Program ASIST ; President Pioneer-Fitzroy-Highlands RSL District ; Capricornia RSL Secretary

Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2007 8:09 PM
Subject: Fw: Where is the CMVH Protocol Minister?.


From: J & A Hevey
To: 'Billson, Bruce (MP)'
Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2007 6:16 PM
Subject: Where is the CMVH Protocol Minister?.


Minister

I am again prompted to write, this time to request your advice as to why the CMVH protocol, you undertook to release on 30 July 2007, has yet to see the light of day in the public arena and with the groups it so intrinsically affects.

Minister I would if I may, like to take you back to 11 AM on Tuesday 10 April 2007.  At this time on this day, you participated in a meeting with the Partners of Veterans Association of Australia (PVA), the Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study(COVVHS) together with a number of senior officers from your department. The basic tenant of this meeting was to discuss the progress of the Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study.


During the course of this meeting you intimated to those attending that development of the 'Protocol" by CMVH was completed, you went on to advise that "the protocol would be delivered by 30th July 2007".


Here we are Minister at 4.10PM on 31 July 2007, and as far as I can ascertain the protocol remains on your desk.


Of further interest is the fact that the protocol has in effect been on your desk for some considerable time, most certainly well before the meeting of 10 April 2007, and definitely several weeks prior to Friday 20 July 2007.

Of further interest Minister is, what ever happened to the reconvening of the former Consultative Committee, and the meeting you directed your advisor to organise ( at the 10 April 2007 meeting) for the first two weeks of July 2007.

Minister I request that you advise all interested parties by return E-Mail, why the protocol has failed to be released on Monday 30 July 2007, as per your statement/undertaking at the 10 April 2007 meeting and despite it known to have been in your possession for several weeks. Similarly you are requested to advise why the directed (by yourself) reconvening of the former Consultative Committee did not take place in the first two weeks of July 2007.

Minister do you not have any level of emotion or care for those Men and Women?, who hold this matter close to their hearts as parents do.
For god's sake Minister, give them a response one way or another in the time line you indicated - don't string them along with false undertaking's and then blithely do nothing - even a phone call advising them that a further delay was to be expected would have eased their anguish.

Regards
John Hevey
(The Great Garibaldi)

CONTACT DETAILS DELETED FOR PRIVACY REASONS

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Veterans will encourage young Australians not to enlist
under current circumstances.

From: Keith Tennent

To: Dr Rod Bain ; EDA President ; RSL Nat President ; Capricornia RSL President ; VVAA Sunshine Coast ; TVille VVFA ; Qld VVFA ; PVA Research and Benefits Member ; WA TPI ; ACT TPI ; PVA Secretary ; ACT RSL ; Barry Billing NSW VVAA ; RSL National ; NSW RSL ; NSW TPI ; Queensland RSL ; TPI Federation ; Vic TPI ; Victorian RSL ; VVFA National ; WA RSL ; Nat Coordinator Program ASIST ; President Pioneer-Fitzroy-Highlands RSL District ; Capricornia RSL Secretary ; Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List

Cc: Main Veterans List
Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2007 10:20 AM
Subject: VV Kids Health Study


From: Matheson Family
Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2007 9:04 AM
Subject: Re: VV Kids Health Study


Hello all,

There is nothing to report other than the responses from our last email clogged out the faxes at both of Billson's offices for several days (Frankston and Canberra).


It is mooted that we will do another mailout soon asking for responses to the Prime Minister (preferably to his fax machines).


The one positive for me is that I get literally hundreds of positive feed back emails after each mailout, the Vietnam veteran community is resolute.


I just wish the so-called major peak bodies would put their hands up it is a lot of work for half a dozen individuals, arranging meetings with parliamentarians, travel, etc.


Regards,
David

http://www.svsg.org.au/links.htm
www.covvhs.org.au
From: J & A Hevey
Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2007 7:41 AM
Subject: VV Kids Health Study



Minister Billson, recently advised during the course of a meeting of  COVVHS, that "the study protocol will be handed down by 30 July 2007".

Today dawns as the 31st of July 2007, and no mention can be found of this long awaited protocol, no media releases have emanated from the Minister for Mediocrity's office overnight.

Has the Minister in fact released the protocol, that has been languishing on his desk for several weeks.  Perhaps it still languishes in his too hard basket.  Do those who are fighting tooth and nail, for justice in respect of the VV Kids Health Study still wait.




Regards
The Great Garibaldi

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Veterans will encourage young Australians not to enlist
under current circumstances.

From: Keith Tennent

To: Main Veterans List
Sent: Monday, July 30, 2007 9:56 AM
Subject: TPIS HAVE NO CHOICE ABOUT KIDS OR INCOME....WE JUST COP IT SWEET



Military members have no choice but to accept their lot, raise the kids, pay the bills, work hard and dangerously and then, when they become disabled, line up for the broken promises made to them over conditions of service. TPIs simply have no choices at all and can either cop it sweet with our unjust compensation, or try and Soldier on in the work force without applying for the TPI payment, not being able to better ourselves or our income because of our War caused disabilities.



Parents who set a tough example
Article from:
By Tory Maguire

July 30, 2007 12:00am

THE plaudits for Steve Bracks' "courageous" decision to put family before state have been predictably fulsome.


Conveniently ignoring that it may in fact be too late for Bracks to begin fathering his 20-year-old son Nick, the now-ex Victorian premier is being held up as a somewhat handsome embodiment of the modern man.

At the same time, Morris Iemma wants to be home by six to bath his kids, and Jackie Kelly has revealed her decision to quit her Federal seat of Lindsay at the next election was inspired by her nearly killing her kids in a car accident - four years ago .

How terribly 2007.

The mere suggestion that work may sometimes have to come before family has become such a taboo, it's not worth the judgmental looks of shock and disbelief to express it in polite company.

And there's a lot to be said for not expecting children to rear themselves while their parents are out conquering the world.

But the danger in all of this is that this crop of politicians under the age of 55 are setting up expectations the rest of us can't possibly be expected to meet.

Who but those in possession of a generous parliamentary pension can afford to drop out of the workforce in the prime of their lives at the first hint of trouble with their kids, as Mr Bracks and Ms Kelly have done?

While Mr Iemma's speeding home for bathtime and a round of Golden Books, are his staff also afforded such luxury or are they still in the office making it possible for the Premier to indulge his work/life balance?

Politicians having to struggle to raise their families, just like the rest of us, is not new.

There are countless examples of political children going off the rails at one time or another, but you didn't see Bob Hawke quitting over his daughter's heroin addiction or John Howard throwing in the towel when his son was done for DUI.

No doubt both men put an extraordinary effort into dealing with their children's issues, but they didn't give up their jobs to do it - and the fact they were facing the same challenges as a lot of Australian parents lent an authenticity to their political pitch.

Politicians work hard but so do the people who vote for them.

Who's going to step in and pick up the pieces when it all gets too much for us?



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Veterans will encourage young Australians not to enlist
under current circumstances.

From: Keith Tennent

To: Dr Rod Bain ; EDA President ; RSL Nat President ; Capricornia RSL President ; VVAA Sunshine Coast ; TVille VVFA ; Qld VVFA ; PVA Research and Benefits Member ; WA TPI ; ACT TPI ; PVA Secretary ; ACT RSL ; Barry Billing NSW VVAA ; RSL National ; NSW RSL ; NSW TPI ; Queensland RSL ; TPI Federation ; Vic TPI ; Victorian RSL ; VVFA National ; WA RSL ; Nat Coordinator Program ASIST ; President Pioneer-Fitzroy-Highlands RSL District ; Capricornia RSL Secretary ; Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List

Cc: Federal Parliamentary List ; Main Veterans List ; Ian McPhedran News Ltd ; Paul Dyer Journo News Limited ; Sasha Uzunov Freelance Journo ; Edith Bevan Journo ; Mike Carey SBS ; Paul Cutler SBS ; Hugo Kelly Journo ; Paul Murray ; Alison Rehn Journo ; Qld Courier Mail Editor ; Frank Walker Fairfax ; Michael McKenna Australian ; Neil Wilson Herald Journo ; Michael Bailey Radio 4RO ; K Stevenson ; Chris Masters

Sent: Thursday, July 19, 2007 7:10 AM
Subject: GOVERNMENT FAILS TO DELIVER WITH VV KIDS HEALTH STUDY


From: Matheson Family
Sent: Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:03 PM
Subject: Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study (COVVHS)


For wide distribution



Hello all,

 

On Tuesday, 10th April, 2007 at 11 am, a delegation from the Partners of Veterans Association of Australia (PVA) and the Children of Vietnam Veterans Health Study Inc





(COVVHS) met with the Minister for Veterans Affairs, Mr Bruce Billson.





Also attending were Mr Adam Luckhurst, National Manager, Rehabilitation, Research and Development, DVA, and Mr Vincent Sheey, Advisor to the Minister.





At this meeting, the Minister was keen to reassure the veterans community that all ?was on track? with the CMVH.



Minister Billson insisted that the health of sons and daughters of all veterans was an important issue to him.



Mr. Billson said that the protocol would be delivered by June 30th.



His general response was "that there was cause for optimism."



Minister Billson agreed that it would be a good idea to reconvene the former Consultative forum to meet in the first two weeks of July, and have Professor Niki Ellis brief those members of the veteran community, on the Protocol and the CMVH's recommendations.





The Minister gave his word that he would reconvene the former Consultative forum to meet in the first two weeks of July.





In the delegates? presence, the Minister instructed his adviser Mr Sheey to commence measures to implement this, however to date, nothing has been transpired.



The Protocol is sitting on the Ministers desk yet Mr Billson won?t release it.



COVVHS asks that you contact the Minister via email, fax or telephone and demand that he keep the promise he made in April, to reconvene the former Consultative forum, and have Professor Niki Ellis brief the veterans community, about the Protocol and the CMVH's recommendations, ASAP,  and not wait and use it as a "bargaining tool" for the upcoming election.





Our children's lives should not be used as "vote catchers" they are worth more than that!!



Please include a "cc" or call your local Federal member.



Email B.Billson.MP@aph.gov.au



Telephones (02) 6277 7820 (03) 9781 2333



Fax (02) 6273 4140 (03) 9783 7912



Please help us to demonstrate to the Minister, in this election year, that the veterans? community will not be fobbed off.



He needs our vote, and he must show us he is worthy of it?



Remember, every call, fax, or e-mail counts!! Our children need this study!



Kind regards

David Matheson

President, COVVHS


http://www.svsg.org.au/links.htm
www.covvhs.org.au

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Veterans will encourage young Australians not to enlist
under current circumstances.

From: Keith Tennent

To: Dr Rod Bain ; EDA President ; RSL Nat President ; Capricornia RSL President ; VVAA Sunshine Coast ; TVille VVFA ; Qld VVFA ; PVA Research and Benefits Member ; WA TPI ; ACT TPI ; PVA Secretary ; ACT RSL ; Barry Billing NSW VVAA ; RSL National ; NSW RSL ; NSW TPI ; Queensland RSL ; TPI Federation ; Vic TPI ; Victorian RSL ; VVFA National ; WA RSL ; Nat Coordinator Program ASIST ; President Pioneer-Fitzroy-Highlands RSL District ; Capricornia RSL Secretary ; Capricornia RSL Sub Branch List

Cc: Federal Parliamentary List ; Main Veterans List ; Ian McPhedran News Ltd ; Paul Dyer Journo News Limited ; Sasha Uzunov Freelance Journo ; Edith Bevan Journo ; Mike Carey SBS ; Paul Cutler SBS ; Hugo Kelly Journo ; Paul Murray ; Alison Rehn Journo ; Qld Courier Mail Editor ; Frank Walker Fairfax ; Michael McKenna Australian ; Neil Wilson Herald Journo ; Michael Bailey Radio 4RO ; K Stevenson ; Chris Masters

Sent: Thursday, July 12, 2007 10:39 PM
Subject: VICTORIAN PREMIER SUPPORTS VV KIDS HEALTH STUDY


From: Matheson Family
Sent: Thursday, July 12, 2007 5:49 PM
Subject: Fw: Children of Vietnam Veterans health Study (COVVHS)



Hello all,

COVVHS appreciates having a Victorian Premier who has a genuine interests in Veterans affairs and provides the range of support associated with the health and well being of Veterans families.

Recently Premier Bracks wrote to Prime Minister Howard providing support to the actual instigation of a study into the health of Veterans sons and daughter.

Attached is the letter provided by Premier Bracks.

Kind regards,
David Matheson
President, COVVHS

http://www.svsg.org.au/links.htm
www.covvhs.org.au

*************************

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Veterans will encourage young Australians not to enlist
under current circumstances.

[attachment deleted by admin]

From: Keith Tennent

To: Dr Rod Bain ; EDA President ; RSL Nat President ; Capricornia RSL President ; VVAA Sunshine Coast ; TVille VVFA ; Qld VVFA ; PVA Research and Benefits Member ; WA TPI ; ACT TPI ; PVA Secretary ; ACT RSL ; Barry Billing NSW VVAA ; RSL National ; NSW RSL ; NSW TPI ; Queensland RSL ; TPI Federation ; Vic TPI ; Victorian RSL ; VVFA National ; WA RSL ; Nat Coordinator Program ASIST ; President Pioneer-Fitzroy-Highlands RSL District ; Capricornia RSL Secretary

Cc: Main Veterans List

Sent: Wednesday, July 04, 2007 7:02 PM
Subject: CONCESSIONS FOR KIDS OF VETERANS...A VETERAN COMMENTS


From: Greg Mitchell

To: lynne.kosky@parliament.vic.gov.au ; publictransportart@doi.vic.gov.au

Cc: admin@tpihqvic.org.au ; rslvic@rslvic.com.au ; 'Keith Tennent'

Sent: Wednesday, July 04, 2007 6:07 PM
Subject: Metlink Concession Card


Dear Sir/Madam.

 

My son Jarrad received a Low Income Health Care card today; this will entitle him to a concession when traveling on Metlink.  I still ask the question why Centrelink doesn?t include the Veterans? Children Education Scheme as part of the qualifying criteria published on their Webpage.  Also why doesn?t DVA inform you that you could qualify for the Low Income Health Care card if you are receiving the Veterans? Children Education Allowance?

 

I also received a phone call from Metlink last week, they told me that the Victorian Government does not recognize Pre Apprenticeship Courses for a Metlink Concession Card; I think the Victorian Government should change this.

Thank you for your support Keith.

Yours faithfully,
 

Greg Mitchell

 

Dear Sir/Madam,

 

To date I have not received a response from your office but this is an update of where I am at.

 

I rang Centrelink and explained to them that my son Jarrad was receiving an education allowance under the Veterans? Children Education Scheme at the rate of $192.50 per fortnight.  I asked them if he was entitled to a Health Care Card, they told me bluntly that he if was not receiving an allowance from Centrelink he was not entitled to it.

 

Searching through Centrelink?s website I came across the below page for the Low Income Health Care Card.  If you run down the page and read: Who needs to apply for a Low Income Health Care Card? The criteria is  Austudy  ABSTUDY  Youth Allowance.  There is no mention of the Veteran?s Children Education Scheme. If you look at the next section referring to Customers that automatically receive a Health Care Card there is also no reference to the Veteran?s Children Education Scheme.

However if you look at the Low Income Health Care Card - Income Test (bottom section of this email) they include as income ?Veteran affairs payments?.

 

After discovering this, I again rang Centrelink and pointed this out to them.  They told me to get a Statement of Income from the Department of Veteran?s Affairs being paid by the Veteran?s Children Education Scheme and send a claim in for the Low Income Health Care Card.  If Jarrad gets this Card it will entitle him to a Metlink Concession.  Talk about jumping through hoops!

 

I have found this whole affair to be very confusing and frustrating. If Centrelink does deem that Jarrad qualifies for the Low Income Health Care Card, Centrelink should include the Veteran?s Children Education Scheme as part of the qualifying criteria published on their Webpage.

 

I think that TPI Veterans should be informed about this anomaly, if Jarrad does eventually get a Metlink Concession it will mean a saving to him of $40 per fortnight.  The Health Care Card also provides him with entitlements that he would not otherwise receive from the Department of Veteran?s Affairs.

 

Yours faithfully,

 

Greg Mitchell
 

Income Health Care Cards:
?                  What are Low Income Health Care Card holders entitled to?

?                  Do I qualify for a Low Income Health Care Card?

?                  What is the income test for a Low Income Health Care Card?

?                  Who needs to apply for a Low Income Health Care Card?

?                  How do I apply for a Low Income Health Care Card?

?                  How long will my Low Income Health Care Card last?

?                  How do I find out more?


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What are Low Income Health Care Card holders entitled to?

Low Income Health Care Card holders and any dependants listed on the card may be entitled to:

?                  Commonwealth health concessions

?                  concessions offered by private companies

?                  reduced cost medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)

?                  State and Local Government concessions such as:

?                          health care costs including ambulance, dental and eye care

?                          public transport costs

?                          water rates

?                          energy and electricity bills.

Please note: When using services covered by Medicare you will need to present your Medicare Card.

[ return to top ]

Do I qualify for a Low Income Health Care Card?

You can get a Low Income Health Care Card if you satisfy the Low Income Health Care Card - Income Test and:

?                  are an Australian resident, or

?                  are in Australia and hold a non protected special category visa, or

?                  hold a visa subclass which entitles you to Special Benefit, and

?                  have served the 104 week newly arrived residents waiting period or hold a qualifying residence exemption.

[ return to top ]

What is the income test for a Low Income Health Care Card?

?                  Go to the Low Income Health Care Card - Income Test.

[ return to top ]

Who needs to apply for a Low Income Health Care Card?

You will need to lodge a claim for a Low Income Health Care Card if you are a low income earner (who satisfies the Health Care Card Income Test) or if you are a Student or Australian Apprentice receiving one the following payments:

?                  Austudy

?                  ABSTUDY

?                  Youth Allowance.

Customers receiving the following payments will automatically receive a Health Care Card and do not need to lodge a claim:

?                  Carer Allowance (for a child under 16 years with a disability)

?                  Exceptional Circumstances Relief Payment

?                  Family Tax Benefit Part A (maximum rate)

?                  Mobility Allowance (if you are not receiving Disability Support Pension)

?                  Newstart Allowance

?                  Parenting Payment (Partnered)

?                  Partner Allowance

?                  Sickness Allowance

?                  Special Benefit

?                  Widow Allowance

?                  Youth Allowance (Jobseeker).

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How do I apply for a Low Income Health Care Card?

Students or Australian Apprentices receiving ABSTUDY, Austudy or Youth Allowance can claim their Low Income Health Care Card by telephoning us on 13 2490.

To claim your Low Income Health care Card you need to lodge a Low Income Health Care Card claim form. Couples can lodge their claims on a single Low Income Health Care Card claim form.

Each person claiming a Low Income Health Care Card must provide:

?                  a minimum of 50 points of Identity and proof of Australian Residence (as specified on the claim form)

?                  proof of their income for the eight week assessment period (as specified on the claim form).

Go to the Low Income Health Care Card claim form.

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How long will my Low Income Health Care Card last?

Your Low Income Health Care Card will be valid for a six month period starting from the date you lodge your claim. One month before your Low Income Health Care Card is due to expire you will be sent a Low Income Health Care Card Renewal claim form.

The Renewal claim form will determine your ongoing entitlement to a Low Income Health Care Card. Your entitlement is based on the eight week period of income you declare on the Renewal claim form.

To renew your Low Income Health Care Card, your gross income must be below the Low Income Health Care Card - Income Test limit that applies to you.

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How do I find out more?

For more information about what concessions are available in the state or territory you live in :

?                  Go to the Low Income Health Care Card claim form.

?                  Download A Guide to Centrelink Concession Cards.

?                  Visit your nearest Centrelink Customer Service Centre.

?                  Go to the www.australia.gov.au website.

?                  Go to the Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme information on the Medicare Australia website.

?                  Go to the Medicare information on the Medicare Australia website.

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?                             Low Income Health Care Card - Income Test

Low Income Health Care Card - Income Test:
This income test is effective from 1 July 2007. Your Low Income Health Care Card is assessed on gross income for the eight week period ending the day you lodge your claim. Your income must be below the limit that applies to you. This limit varies depending on whether you are single or coupled or have dependants.

?                  What is the Maximum Gross Income to qualify for a Health Care Card?

?                  What is the Maximum Gross Income to retain a Health Care Card?

?                  What is income?


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What is the Maximum Gross Income to qualify for a Health Care Card?

Your income must be below the limit that applies to you for the eight week period for you to be eligible for a Low Income Health Care Card.

Status
 Weekly Income
 8 weekly income
 
Single, no children
 $423.00
 $3384.00
 
Single, or couple combined, one child
 $739.00
 $5912.00
 
Partnered (combined), no children
 $705.00
 $5640.00
 
For each child, add
 $34
 $272.00
 

Each time you apply or renew your Low Income Card, you will be required to re-qualify for the card. To be entitled to a new or renewed card, your weekly income must be no higher than the Maximum Gross Income required to qualify for a Health Care Card (as stated in the table above).

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What is the Maximum Gross Income to retain a Health Care Card?

Once you have been issued with a Health Care Card, your weekly income must not exceed the limits below during the entitlement period. The entitlement period is from the date of issue to the date the card expires or you lose entitlement to use the card.

If your income does change, you must tell Centrelink and we can work out if you are still qualified for the card and can continue to use it.

Status
 Weekly Income
 8 weekly income
 
Single, no children
 $528.75
 $4230.00
 
Single, or couple combined, one child
 $923.75
 $7390.00
 
Partnered (combined), no children
 $881.20
 $7050.00
 
For each child, add
 $42.50
 $340.00
 

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What is Income?

Income includes:

?                  employment income - wages, salary and self-employment income

?                  rental income

?                  Government pensions or benefits - Newstart Allowance, Parenting Payment, Age Pension, ABSTUDY, Austudy, Youth Allowance, Farm Help and Special Benefit

?                  tax-free pensions or benefits - Disability support pension, Carer payment and Wife Pension

?                  Veteran affairs payments

?                  Income from investments - shares, allocated pensions and annuities, bank accounts and managed investments. Any income you receive from financial investments is assessed under one simple set of rules known as deeming.

?                  foreign income

?                  private trusts and companies

?                  compensation

?                  New Enterprise Incentive Scheme or Community Development Employment Project.

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?                                 Crisis or Special Help

?                                 Moved to Australia

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?                                 Caring

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Today's Date: 06/15/2007 - Last Modified: 06/04/2007

Centrelink ABN: 29468422437

**************************



Dear Sir/Madam,

 

My son Jarrad Mitchell is undertaking Certificate 11 Plumbing (Pre-apprenticeship) course at RMIT University; the course duration is 14 weeks full time study.  Jarrad has tried to get RMIT University to endorse an application for a Metlink Student Concession Card, however they refuse to do so as they have been told by Metlink that Pre-apprenticeship courses do not meet Metlink?s criteria for a Student Concession Card.

 

I have rung Metlink and they seem to think this is a grey area and that they do not know if this type of course qualifies for a Concession Card.  They have assigned me a Case number: 23979 and said that they should get back to me within 7 days.

 

Jarrad started this course 2 weeks ago (this being his 3rd week) of the 14 week course.  If Metlink take 7 days to respond to my enquiry and then say Jarrad is eligible, how would this be  confirmed with RMIT?  Also, by the time the application could be endorsed by RMIT University there would only be 10 or less weeks duration of the course left, which would make him ineligible for the Concession!

 

Eligibility criteria:

To obtain a Victorian Public Transport Student Concession Card (VPT Concession Card), you must be a student and must fulfill the following eligibility criteria.

All students must be:

Attending a normal course of full-time study at a School/College/Institution, registered with the Victorian Department of Education and Training as shown in the Victorian Public Transport Approved Schools and Approved Courses in Tertiary Institutions Register.
AND

A citizen or permanent resident of Australia or a student with refugee status, a student studying as part of an approved overseas exchange program (proof required) or a student with an Australian Development Scholarship (proof required).

Students are NOT eligible to obtain a VPT Concession Card if they are:

Enrolled in a Masters, Doctorate or other postgraduate courses
Overseas full-fee paying students (primary, secondary, tertiary)
Enrolled in a tertiary course which is less than ten weeks duration
Enrolled in an apprenticeship course.

Of note is the criteria which does not qualify one for a VPT Concession Card that being ?enrolled in an apprenticeship course?.  I would assume that if a person were enrolled in an apprenticeship course you would be indentured as an apprentice and would be in paid full time employment as opposed to doing a Pre-apprenticeship course in which one does not receive any remuneration and is studying full time.

 

Tertiary students (code T)

This card is available to full-time Victorian tertiary students who attend a college or university listed in the

Approved Courses in Tertiary Institutions Register and undertaking an approved full time course.

Victorian Tertiary Student Concession Cards are available for a half year or full year. Students enrolled in courses

of between 10 and 20 weeks can only obtain a half-yearly card. Concession cards are not issued for courses of

less than 10 weeks? duration.

 

I believe Jarrad?s Pre-apprenticeship course falls into the above category, and therefore should entitle him to a Concession Card.

 

 

I am a TPI Veteran. My son Jarrad is deemed by the Department of Veterans? Affairs to be undertaking full time study and receives an education allowance under the Veterans? Children Education Scheme at the rate of $192.50 per fortnight.  This does not entitle him to any other benefits e.g. Heath Care Card although he is listed on my Pensioner concession card with his own no. VSM08281B.

 

Metlink state ?that the Australian Pensioner Concession Card concession applies only to the cardholder, and does not extend to any dependants named on the card, even when they are travelling with the cardholder?.

 

If Jarrad were receiving Youth Allowance from Centrelink he would automatically receive a Health Care Card, which would entitle him to a Metlink Concession Card.

 

My areas of concern are:

 

-       Why is a 14 week full time study Pre-apprenticeship course with RMIT University not considered by Metlink as eligible for concession?  This course is not an apprenticeship whereby he would have to be employed to attend.  A Pre-apprenticeship is a ?short course? of full time study,

                                                                                                                                                                                           

-       why do the Department of Veterans? Affairs consider the Pre-apprenticeship course as full time study and pay Jarrad a Veterans? Children?s Education Allowance, (the equivalent to the Youth Allowance from Centrelink) when Metlink do not consider this course for a concession,

 

-       why should Jarrad be penalized for receiving an allowance from the Department of Veterans? Affairs, which does not grant him a Health Care Card, as opposed to receiving a Youth Allowance from Centrelink and being entitled to a Health Care Card which would enable him to get the Metlink Concession Card?

 

I feel that my being a TPI Veteran is prejudicing my son Jarrad an entitlement to a Metlink Concession Card that he would otherwise be entitled to if he were receiving Youth Allowance from Centrelink instead of an allowance  being paid by the Department of Veteran?s Affairs.

 

Why should Jarrad have to pay full fare for another 7 days plus, this being the time Metlink have told us it will take to consider if he is entitled to the concession or not?

 

Would the Minister for Transport recommend that my son Jarrad refuse his entitlement by the Veterans? Children Education Scheme paid by the Department of Veteran?s Affairs which does not entitle him to a Metlink Concession Card and apply for Youth Allowance from Centrelink which he would receive a Health Care Card giving him access to a Metlink Concession Card.

 

Why should Jarrad be refused this Metlink Concession Card because his father is a TPI Veteran?

 

Yours faithfully,

Greg Mitchell

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