Tuesday, 16 June 2026

 David ETTERSHANK (Western Metropolitan) (12:55): (2385) My question is to the Minister for Veterans. My constituent is a veteran struggling with the cost of living and the lack of access to affordable housing. He says many veterans face similar challenges. Veterans are over-represented in Australia’s homeless population, and stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to transitioning to civilian life. Veteran Housing Australia, a dedicated community housing provider for veterans, report being contacted every 48 hours by a veteran seeking housing support. VHA manages 100 properties across Victoria but has none in Melbourne’s west, meaning vets in the west must rely on already overburdened generalist homelessness services. These vets have served their country, often leaving the services with profound physical or mental injuries. The very least we can do is ensure they have a roof over their head. My constituents ask: will the minister meet with Veteran Housing Australia and the Minister for Housing and Building to discuss ways to address the urgent need for veteran housing in Melbourne’s west?