Labor backs down on veterans’ health services cap after furious backlash from Jacqui Lambie and ex-ADF members
Independent senator had denounced as ‘cruel’ the plan to impose a $5,000 cap on allied health services for veterans Labor has backdown on plans to impose a $5,000 cap on health services for defence veterans, caving to growing political pressure after weeks of criticism. The government announced it would no longer pursue the cap for allied health services, which had been to come into force on 1…
The opposition has forced Labor to abandon a plan to cap allied health services for defence veterans at $5,000 per year. The government announced it would not pursue the controversial cap, which was set to be introduced on July 1, 2027, after weeks of intense opposition and criticism. Veterans' groups and independent Senator Jacqui Lambie had vehemently opposed the measure, arguing it would be "cruel" and "devastating" for those who needed more support.
Veterans Affairs Minister Matt Keogh revealed on Thursday that the government would drop the policy after receiving concerns from veterans and the public during the federal budget process. Keogh stated that the government has listened to the feedback and has decided to remove the proposed $5,000 threshold. Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has called for Keogh's dismissal, criticizing the minister for not being up to the task.
Lambie praised the decision, stating it was a win for every veteran, family member, and Australian who spoke out against the cap. The Fair Care for Veterans spokesperson, John Armfield, expressed gratitude to Keogh for backtracking, acknowledging that the government had finally listened to veterans and their concerns.
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