Question Time AU

General Debate

Minister for Veterans' Affairs

House of Representatives · Wednesday 19 August 2026

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

At a glance

The debate centred on a motion moved by Phillip Thompson expressing no confidence in the Minister for Veterans' Affairs and Defence Personnel. Thompson and Michael McCormack argued that the minister had failed to uphold the Veterans' Covenant, refused to engage respectfully with veteran groups, and supported a $5,000 cap on allied health services. They called for the minister's dismissal and the removal of the funding cap. Madeleine King moved to adjourn the debate, which was subsequently passed by the House.

Outcome

The motion to adjourn the debate was passed by 83 votes to 44.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Phillip Thompson (Herbert) (Liberal National Party) LNP

Thompson argued that the Minister for Veterans' Affairs and Defence Personnel had undermined veteran welfare and failed to respect the Australian Defence Force Veterans' Covenant Oath. Thompson claimed the minister refused to meet with ex-service organisations regarding cuts to allied health services and displayed a lack of care for veterans. Thompson highlighted concerns about a $5,000 cap on allied health treatment, stating it left veterans without necessary support for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder. Thompson asserted that the minister was unfit for office and called for the Prime Minister to dismiss him and abolish the cap.

Votes during this debate

Division 4: Minister for Veterans' Affairs Passed 83–44