VVAA ACHIEVEMENTS

The success of the Association is evident to those who look at the runs on the board. In the recent past, the VVAA has been able to ensure the:

• establishment of the Vietnam Veterans Counselling Service (VVCS) and its ongoing monitoring through the Minister’s independent National Advisory Committee;

• successful outcome for the Military Medal nominees under the Vietnam End of War List Review;

• creation of the Australian Centre for Post-traumatic Mental health

• successful completion of the Vietnam Veterans’ Mortality Study;

• successful completion of the Vietnam Veterans’ Health Study;

• creation of the protocol for the validation of the Health Study;

• discussion with DVA on responses to the Health study outcomes;

• review of service-related use of alcohol and tobacco;

• commencement of the continuing scientific study into the genetic effects of Agent White;

• long-delayed review of the Repatriation Medical Authority was undertaken;

• proper consideration of the proposed Second Opinion diagnostic protocols for psychiatric disorders;

• institution of the VVAA Web Site and electronic mail exchange;

• contribution of the VVAA to policy on veterans’ issues including DVA’s Mental Health policy, Men’s Health Peer Education Program and promotion of healthy lifestyles;

• contribution to and an ongoing commitment to the Training and Information Program (TIP);

• initiated numerous Younger Veterans Programs via the VVCS;

• funding of support groups under DVA’s grants programs;

• $32.3m to support the extension of benefits for veterans, partners and children;

• contribution to the new Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Scheme and the Review of Veterans Entitlements (Clarke Review);

• conduct of National ESO Summits to encourage a work together environment prior to Federal Elections

• founding member of the Veterans’ Indemnity and Training Association;

• assistance to government in shaping policy on veterans issues via participation on 14 separate National and State committees; and

• continuous recognition of the VVAA as the representative of the Vietnam veterans’ community.