Defence Service Homes Amendment (Insurance) Bill 2025

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Tuesday 4 February 2025 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The Minister for Veterans' Affairs introduced legislation to formalise the Commonwealth's role in providing general insurance to Defence families. The bill aims to validate past activities and authorise future representative agreements with third-party insurers. This measure seeks to maintain competitive pricing for home building policies through commission income. The debate concluded with the motion being moved and the debate adjourned.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned after the Minister moved that the bill be read a second time.

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2. Wednesday 5 February 2025 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned a technical amendment to the Defence Service Homes Insurance Scheme to resolve legal uncertainties regarding the Department of Veterans' Affairs acting as an insurance agent. Barnaby Joyce supported the bill to ensure coverage for veterans, particularly those affected by recent floods in Townsville. Matt Keogh commended the legislation for securing the continued operation of insurance arrangements for personnel and veterans. The bill was passed without significant opposition.

   Outcome: The question was agreed to and the bill was read a second time.

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3. Wednesday 5 February 2025 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
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4. Thursday 6 February 2025 · Senate

   First Reading
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5. Thursday 6 February 2025 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate considered legislation to formalise the Commonwealth's role in providing general insurance to defence members and veterans. The bill sought to validate past activities and authorise future arrangements where the Defence Service Homes Insurance Scheme acts as an authorised representative for third-party insurers. This mechanism generates commission income that helps keep home building insurance premiums competitive for over 32,000 policyholders. The measure was introduced by the Minister for Veterans' Affairs and the debate was adjourned without further discussion.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned.

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6. Monday 10 February 2025 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated the Defence Service Homes Amendment (Insurance) Bill 2025, which seeks to retrospectively validate and authorise the Commonwealth to act as an agent for private insurance providers for defence families. Senator Perin Davey supported the non-controversial measure, noting its importance for insurability in flood-affected areas. Senator David Shoebridge also supported the bill to protect veterans but raised concerns about the legality of the scheme since its privatisation in 1990. Minister Jenny McAllister explained the bill formalises longstanding practice and protects over 32,000 policyholders. The bill was passed after second reading.

   Outcome: The bill was read a second time and agreed to.

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7. Monday 10 February 2025 · Senate

   Third Reading
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