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…
Independent senator Jacqui Lambie had called the $5,000 cap on allied health services for veterans as "cruel" and "dangerous". This political move was set to come into effect on 1 July 2027. The government eventually decided to drop this cap after facing criticism from the opposition, veterans' groups and Lambie herself. Veterans Affairs Minister Matt Keogh made the announcement, stating that the government has listened to concerns raised about the measure.
Keogh had initially refused to meet with veterans who were lobbying for the cap's removal. The opposition leader, Angus Taylor, called for Keogh's sacking, accusing him of not being up to the job. Lambie, who had personally experienced difficulties in accessing healthcare, praised the government's decision, saying it was a victory for all veterans, families, and Australians who had spoken out against the cap.
The Fair Care for Veterans spokesman thanked Keogh for the change, stating that the government's actions showed it was listening to the veterans' concerns.
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