Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said many veterans receive benefits through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).
“Those veterans or dependants who receive income support or compensation benefits through DVA as listed below and who are currently residing in Australia, will receive the one-off payment of $750.
“The payment will be automatically paid into bank accounts and will come from DVA or Services Australia, however, recipients are encouraged to confirm their bank details are current and up-to date by calling DVA on 1800 555 254.
“The Government is committed to putting veterans and their families first, particularly with regards to the health and economic impacts of this global health issue,” Mr Chester said.
Payments will be made to the following groups from 31 March 2020, with the majority of payments to be made by April 17.
Recipients of:
- Service Pension
- Income Support Supplement
- Age Pension and Wife Pension paid by DVA
- DVA Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders
- Disability Pension
- War Widow(er)’s Pension
- Wholly Dependent Partner payment
- Special Rate Disability Pension
- Permanent Impairment compensation under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004
- Permanent Impairment compensation under the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation (Defence-related Claims) Act 1988
- Veteran Payment
- Gold Card holders
There will be one payment per eligible recipient, which will be tax free and will not count as income for Social Security, Farm Household Allowance and Veteran payments.
In addition, Mr Chester said veterans and their families will also benefit from the government's commitment of $2.4 billion to bolster the nation's health system.
“The health package allows older and at-risk veterans to access some health consultations and assessments remotely, via video or phone where video is not available,” Mr Chester said.
“In the event veterans are in home isolation or from a vulnerable patient group, they will also be able to have their Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme prescriptions filled online or remotely and have their medication delivered directly to their home.
“This ensures vulnerable veterans can access the health care they need while limiting the risk of exposure.
“Veterans in residential or home care will be supported by the Government’s commitment of over $100 million to up-skill and increase the numbers of aged care staff and nurses.”
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