Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (Miscellaneous Measures No. 1) Bill 2025; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Wednesday 26 November 2025

Continued from Wednesday 5 November 2025.

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The debate concerned technical amendments to facilitate the transition to a single veterans' entitlement system under the Veterans' Entitlements, Treatment and Support (Simplification and Harmonisation) Act 2025, effective 1 July 2026. The government argued the bill ensures continuity of care and simplifies complex legislation, while the opposition supported the measure as non-controversial and necessary for harmonisation. Speakers highlighted the importance of bipartisan cooperation on veteran support and referenced the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. The bill was passed after second reading.

Outcome

The bill was read a second time and passed.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Continued the debate

Emma Comer (Petrie) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Comer argued that the bill implements critical technical amendments to ensure a smooth transition from three separate compensation acts to a single legislative framework. Comer stated that the previous system was overly complex and contributed to veteran distress, as identified by the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. The amendments provide powers to the new Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission to make instruments before commencement and preserve existing treatment arrangements. Comer emphasised that the changes protect veterans' rights, ensure funeral compensation is determined correctly, and clarify review pathways for claims made before 21 April 2025.

Government response

Matt Keogh (Burt) (Minister for Veterans' Affairs; Minister for Defence Personnel) ALP

Keogh thanked members for their contributions and acknowledged the bipartisan support for the legislation and the broader VETS Act reforms. Keogh recognised the work of ex-service organisations and the engagement of serving personnel and veterans in the reform process. Keogh noted that the bill continues the government's commitment to implementing Royal Commission recommendations to create a simpler entitlement system. Keogh commended the bill to the House, highlighting the collaborative effort to improve support for the veteran community.

Opposition response

Darren Chester (Gippsland) (Shadow Minister for Veterans' Affairs) Nationals

Chester announced that the coalition would support the bill, describing it as a non-controversial measure that does not alter payments or benefits. Chester commended the government for simplifying the compensation system, which he noted had become cumbersome due to overlapping acts. Chester emphasised the principle of bipartisanship in veterans' affairs and urged the government to continue working with the opposition on Royal Commission recommendations. Chester also raised concerns about the separate Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal reforms, criticising the lack of consultation, but affirmed support for the current bill.