Wednesday, 29 November 2023

 Lee TARLAMIS (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (17:49): (632) The adjournment matter I raise this evening is for the Minister for Veterans in the other place, the Honourable Natalie Suleyman. The action I seek is for the minister to join me and the member for Mulgrave Eden Foster on a visit to the Noble Park RSL in my electorate of South-Eastern Metropolitan Region. For a quarter of a century the Noble Park RSL, along with its dedicated pension and welfare office, has been an essential hub for veterans, led by hardworking and dedicated president John Meehan and ably supported by a passionate team who strive to support our veterans in any and all ways they can. With over 1500 ‍members, 800 of whom are ex-service members, the Noble Park RSL provides a safe and accessible place where veterans can come and spend time with their comrades, make new connections and get the support that they need. It is also an important place where the community and our schools can connect with our veterans and learn more about their service and sacrifice.

Notably, the Noble Park RSL has a large number of Vietnam veterans, with over 200, establishing itself as the RSL sub-branch with the largest Vietnam veterans membership in Australia. The sub-branch operates a vital joint welfare and pension office in collaboration with the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia. This office is staffed by two war widows and six veterans, serving as a lifeline for veterans and their families. They provide crucial assistance with claims and ensure members receive other benefits and recognition they rightfully deserve. Beyond the paperwork, Noble Park RSL goes above and beyond by organising activities that contribute to the wellbeing of veterans. They provide a significant sense of community for veterans also.

War inflicts a considerable toll on many, most acutely those who have served. RSLs have for over a century been safe havens and stalwart advocates for the rights and welfare of veterans. I acknowledge and thank Noble Park RSL for the critical work they do in supporting service men and women in our community and their families. RSLs are a shining example of why we support organisations that support veterans. By working with RSLs and other veterans organisations we can ensure that those who give so much receive the support, recognition and practical assistance they deserve.

I have had a long connection with the Noble Park RSL, visiting regularly and having attended and participated in many commemorative services there, including Anzac Day and Remembrance Day services. I have also witnessed firsthand their active participation in activities and the provision of support for initiatives that better connect the local community. They are always willing to put their hand up and lend a helping hand in any way that they can.

I know that president John Meehan and fellow committee members would love to have the opportunity to show the minister around the Noble Park RSL and discuss all the important services and programs provided to veterans, including the Veterans Card Victoria, which provides veterans with benefits such as $100 off light vehicle registration, free trailer and caravan registration, fishing licence exemption and a free marine licence, amongst other benefits. Such a visit would also facilitate discussion about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for our veterans and the RSL sub-branch, as we know that there is still more that can be done to support veterans, and working collaboratively with veterans and the communities that support them is crucial to achieving better outcomes together. I look forward to welcoming the minister to Noble Park RSL at her earliest convenience, along with the member for Mulgrave Eden Foster.