South Australia’s 48,000 veterans and their families are set to receive greater recognition and support under landmark new legislation, with the State Government announcing plans to introduce what it says will be the nation’s most comprehensive legal framework for veterans.
Announced ahead of Remembrance Day on Wednesday 11 November, the proposed legislation will formally recognise the service and sacrifice of veterans and their families, while establishing clear responsibilities for how the State Government supports them.
The new laws would set out what veterans and their families can expect from government, helping ensure their needs are considered when policies, programs and public services are developed.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Chris Picton said the legislation would turn the state’s longstanding commitment to its veteran community into lasting legal protections.
“The service and sacrifice of our veterans deserves more than recognition in words. This Bill will help ensure our veterans and their families are heard, respected and recognised for their contributions to our communities.”
The proposed Bill will cover several significant areas, including formally recognising the unique nature of military service and the contribution of veterans’ families.
It will also consider giving legal standing to the South Australian Charter for Veterans, formally establishing the Veterans’ Advisory Council in legislation and supporting the development of a statewide strategy for veterans and their families.
Importantly, the proposed framework would require public sector agencies to consider veterans’ needs when developing policies and delivering services, helping ensure support extends across government rather than being limited to a single department.
Before the legislation is introduced to Parliament, Veterans SA will lead statewide consultation with veterans, their families, ex-service organisations and the broader community.
“We want to get this right, and we will engage with veterans and their families across South Australia, and listen carefully to their experiences, insights and perspectives to help shape this important legislation,” Minister Picton said.
Chair of the Veterans’ Advisory Council, Professor Miranda Van Hooff, welcomed the announcement as an opportunity to strengthen the voices of those who have served.
“This is a landmark moment for South Australia’s veteran community and a real opportunity to make sure veterans, and their families are represented across government.”
South Australia has a history of leading the country in veterans’ affairs. In 2008, it became the first state to establish a dedicated Veterans’ Affairs ministerial portfolio, which led to the creation of Australia’s first state veterans agency.
The state was also the first in Australia to introduce Veterans’ Families Day, recognised annually on 15 May.
Inaugural Director of Veterans SA, Bill Denny AM BM, said the legislation represented the next chapter in that work.
“When we established the first state-based veterans’ portfolio, we were building something we hoped would outlast all of us. This Bill is the next evolution of that vision, taking a commitment that was made in good faith and giving it the force of law.”
The announcement also comes as South Australia’s defence community prepares for significant growth, with the AUKUS program and submarine construction at Osborne expected to bring more serving defence personnel, veterans and their families to the state.
While the legislation is still in its early stages, the Government says consultation will be central to shaping the final Bill, with the aim of creating a framework that continues to support veterans and their families for generations.
The announcement comes as South Australians prepare to commemorate Remembrance Day on Wednesday 11 November, with services taking place across the state, including at the National War Memorial on North Terrace.
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