QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Mr ALBANESE (Grayndler—Prime Minister) (15:03): I thank the member for his question, and I have the greatest respect for our veterans, and I'm always honoured to meet veterans, as I was yesterday, and I welcome genuine feedback and engagement, which is why we have a process of consultation on this. I do want to make three points which came out of the discussions.

We actually put additional expenditure into Veterans' Affairs when we came into government, by a substantial amount, and the government— Opposition members interjecting— The SPEAKER: Order! Members on my left, there are just far too many interjections. Mr ALBANESE: is making a substantial increase to the fees paid to allied health professionals providing services to veterans.

Why are we doing that? It was recommended by the royal commission—recommendation 71. What problem was it solving?

Veterans couldn't get access to allied health services because the fees weren't enough. Previously, there was a review of veterans getting support. They had to go back to a GP every 12 allied health visits for that review in order to get a new referral.

Now there is a review after $5,000. So it is two different—they had one review after 12 visits. Now the review is after $5,000, which will be more than 12 visits.

Then, if further care is required, if there is a clinical need, they will receive it. Importantly, the changes will not impact veterans on the special rate disability pension, on the totally and permanently incapacitated pension or who have been determined to be catastrophically injured. These changes come into effect on 27 July, and the government continues to consult.

My government's priority is ensuring that veterans receive high-quality care that supports their health and their wellbeing.