Wed, 14th May 2008

Swan leaves Veterans out in the Cold

The Hon Bronwyn Bishop MP
Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs

Wayne Swan has demonstrated the Rudd Government’s lack of compassion towards Australian Veterans, with the release of the Rudd Government’s Budget tonight, the Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Bronwyn Bishop said today.

“What we have seen by the Treasurer tonight is his complete lack of compassion, by making it harder for partners of veterans who receive the service pension”.

The Rudd Government is increasing the age of the Service Pension eligibility for veteran service partners from 50 years to 58.5 years for women.

“By raising the eligibility age the Rudd Government is condemning our veteran’s families to financial stress and hardship”.

“Our veterans and their families have committed their lives to serving our nation, and thus ensuring the freedom we enjoy today”.

“This total disregard for their contribution to our nation and their welfare in later life demonstrates a total lack of compassion”.

“These veterans and their families are a part of our community who should be exempt from budgetary cuts, as we are eternally indebted to them for the sacrifices they have made for our nation”.

“Veterans and their families who have planned their future budgets based on this entitlement will be worse off under the Rudd Government”.

“With a $21.7 billion surplus there is no need to punish veteran families”.