Defence Legislation Amendment (RCDVS Implementation and Related Measures No. 2) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Briskey argued the bill closes gaps between Defence and the Department of Veterans' Affairs by enabling information sharing to prevent veterans from falling through the cracks. Briskey highlighted the launch of the Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency and noted the government had accepted 104 of the royal commission's 122 recommendations. Briskey defended the privacy safeguards, stating that the status quo of fragmented systems had resulted in preventable deaths, and emphasised the importance of treating families as integral to veteran wellbeing.

Kennedy criticised the government's budget measures, specifically the annual limit of $5,000 on allied health services for veterans, arguing it lacked compassion and contradicted royal commission findings. Kennedy cited anecdotes of veterans facing long delays for claims processing and out-of-pocket costs, claiming the system was failing those with complex needs. Kennedy urged the government to remove the cap and improve the efficiency of the Department of Veterans' Affairs to reduce uncertainty and financial pressure on veterans.

French supported the bill as a response to the royal commission, noting it directly implements 15 recommendations and supports 20 others. French detailed the five schedules, including information sharing for early intervention, modernising Defence health governance, and supporting families, particularly in cases of domestic violence. French argued that lawful and proportionate information sharing was necessary to identify risks earlier and ensure continuity of care during transition from service.

Chaney supported the bill's provisions for information sharing, health system modernisation, and mandatory discharge for serious offenders, citing broad support from the Returned and Services League. However, she strongly criticised the separate budget measure imposing a $5,000 cap on allied health services, warning it could push veterans with complex needs below the poverty line. Chaney called for clear and fast exemption pathways for those requiring care above the cap to ensure the bill's wellbeing goals were not undermined.

Gosling welcomed the reforms, stating the veteran support system was the best it had ever been and highlighting increased funding for compensation and treatment. Gosling explained that the bill enables earlier intervention through improved data sharing and modernises the Defence health framework. Gosling addressed concerns about the allied health cap by noting a 12-month consultation period and increased fees for providers, arguing these changes would improve access to care.

McCormack confirmed the coalition's support for the bill, acknowledging its alignment with royal commission recommendations. McCormack raised concerns about the $5,000 allied health cap and the lack of prior consultation with stakeholders, noting significant anger within the veteran community. McCormack also questioned the reduction of over 100 positions at the Department of Veterans' Affairs in the budget, despite claims of improved resourcing.

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Ambihaipahar supported the bill as a critical step in implementing royal commission findings to prevent veteran suicide. The member argued that improved information sharing between agencies would enable earlier intervention and better continuity of care. Ambihaipahar noted the bill establishes a legislative basis for defence health services and ensures support continues for former partners in cases of family and domestic violence. The member also highlighted reforms prohibiting individuals convicted of serious violent or sexual offences from joining the Australian Defence Force.

Ryan argued the bill addresses systemic failures where information silos between agencies delayed support for veterans and families. The member detailed how the legislation improves information sharing for research and early intervention while maintaining privacy safeguards. Ryan highlighted provisions ensuring former partners are not cut off from support during separation due to family and domestic violence. The member also noted reforms strengthening integrity requirements for service in the Australian Defence Force.

Burnell commended the government's progress in implementing royal commission recommendations, noting that approximately two-thirds would be in place by the end of the year. The member explained how the bill facilitates better information sharing to identify risks earlier and improve transition support for veterans. Burnell emphasised the modernisation of defence health services governance and the consolidation of fit and proper person requirements. The member argued these changes establish a more cohesive and agile framework for the defence community.

Moncrieff cited high suicide rates among serving and ex-serving personnel as evidence of the need for urgent reform. The member highlighted the government's investment in the Department of Veterans' Affairs, which reduced claim processing times and cleared a significant backlog. Moncrieff announced the launch of the Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency and a new veterans hub at Bardia Barracks. The member argued the bill provides the legislative framework necessary for these support systems to operate effectively.