VA17 Thursday 14 March 2002

GOVERNMENT MOVES TO EXTEND GOLD CARD ELIGIBILITY

The Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Danna Vale, today introduced legislation into Parliament

to provide the Gold Repatriation Health Card to all Australian veterans with qualifying

service over the age of 70 from 1 July 2002.

"Since taking office, this Government has given a high priority to the health and well-being

of our veterans and war widows. This legislation delivers on a key commitment made by

the Howard Government during last year's Federal election," Minister Vale said.

"I urge the ALP and the Democrats to support the smooth passage of this Bill through

Parliament, to ensure all eligible veterans receive the benefits of the Gold Card from 1 July

2002.

"Our veteran population is ageing and their health care needs are changing as they grow

older.

"This Bill will provide comprehensive free health care to all Australian Defence Force

veterans who are over the age of 70 and have qualifying service.

"It will make the Gold Card available to older veterans of conflicts including the Korean

War, the Malayan Emergency, the Indonesian Confrontation and the Vietnam War.

"Importantly, this initiative also takes the longer view, providing for access to the Gold Card

in years to come for veterans of later conflicts such as the Gulf War, East Timor and

Australia's current deployment in the coalition against terror.

"We will ensure that, regardless of which conflict they served in, our older veterans will

receive the care they need," the Minister said.

Minister Vale said many eligible veterans who receive benefits through the Department of

Veterans' Affairs would automatically qualify for the Gold Card.

These veterans will receive a letter advising them of their entitlement once the legislation is

passed and the Gold Card will be sent to them before 1 July.

Once the legislation is passed, other veterans with qualifying service who have turned 70

on or before 1 July will be able to contact DVA on 133 254 to receive an application form.

Veterans who will turn 70 after 1 July can also lodge an application, with their entitlements

to take effect from their birthday.

"This Bill continues the Coalition Government's commitment to advancing the welfare and

interests of the veteran community. It carries out Australia's duty to care for those who

serve our country in wartime," Minister Vale said.