QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator WONG (South Australia—Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Government in the Senate) (14:02): As I have on every occasion on which I've been asked about these issues, I want to start by expressing my personal respect and the respect that our government has for our veterans. We respect their service, we respect the sacrifices they and their families have made and we recognise the responsibility of ensuring they are appropriately supported after serving our country.

I understand that a number of changes have been made as a result of the concerns raised by veterans. I also understand that Minister Keogh has started formal consultations, following the release of a consultation paper. We recognise that more work needs to be done engaging with veterans community on these issues.

I would indicate that last week the minister did advise that the $5,000 threshold, which has been the subject of much focus, will not apply to those who are on the special rate disability pension or the totally and permanently incapacitated pension or those who have been determined to be catastrophically injured. I know that the minister is engaging with the RSL and veterans' representatives on these issues, and we will continue to do that respectfully and appropriately in order to deal with the concerns that have been raised.

The PRESIDENT: Senator Cash, first supplementary?