Tuesday, 16 May 2023

 Steve McGHIE (Melton) (14:44): (143) My question is for the Minister for Veterans, Minister Suleyman. The Andrews Labor government committed to introducing the Victorian Veterans Card in July this year, the first of its kind in Australia, which will be a $37 million investment in the veterans community. Can the minister please outline to my constituents who will be eligible for the card and how they apply? I recently had the opportunity to catch up with the minister and discuss the important contributions of our state’s veterans. Victoria is home to more than 100,000 veterans, who have given so much for Victoria and Australia. I regularly meet with our veterans and veteran organisations throughout my electorate and at community places like the Melton RSL, and they have told me they would like to learn more about the Victorian Veterans Card and how they can apply. Veterans’ contributions do not end when they leave the defence force, and this government recognises the service of our brave veterans and delivers the support they deserve. I know the Victorian Veterans Card is just one of the many ways our government is showing our gratitude to those who have put on our nation’s uniform and served and given so much. I would ask the minister to respond.