Australian military veterans are set to be better supported when transitioning to civilian employment following the announcement of 10 new case coordinators for the Department of Veterans’ Affairs’ (DVA) Coordinated Client Support program.
Announcing the new team of coordinators, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said they would help “at-risk” veterans and those leaving the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
“Research shows veterans under 30 who are involuntarily discharged as being at higher risk of suicide than the general population, so we want to ensure they get the support they need as they navigate the range of government services on offer,” Mr Morrison said.
“These programs are about reaching out to those veterans who need our help to ensure they get it.”
He also announced an additional $5.6 million in funding for the DVA’s Personalised Career Employment Program (PCEP), to expand the program to a further 1,600 members each year.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, Darren Chester said the DVA would work closely with the ADF to identify at-risk veterans and provide them with a single point of contact.
“We are committed to putting veterans and their families first and by providing those most at risk with a single client coordinator it ensures a seamless continuation of support as they leave the ADF, assists them to access appropriate health treatment as well as the finalisation of their DVA claims,” Mr Chester said.
“Currently the PCEP supports those aged between 17 and 24 who have served less than four years by providing them with greater opportunity for job placement within the civilian community.”
He said the investment would extend the program to members up to 30 years of age, meaning a further 30 per cent of transitioning members could now take part.
