QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator McALLISTER (New South Wales—Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme) (14:29): In commencing my answer, I associate myself with Senator Wong's welcome to those members of the ADF who are here in the gallery today. It's been an absolute privilege to represent the Defence portfolio here in the Senate from time to time and to be able to have some connection with the work that you do.

The program's a terrific program, and you are so welcome here. Senator Lambie, thank you for providing advance notice that you sought these specific numbers. I am in a position to provide that detail to you: 6,976 people have been determined as eligible for the special rate disability pension, 25,028 people have been determined as eligible for the special rate of disability compensation payment—otherwise known as the 'totally and permanently incapacitated pension'—and 52 people are determined to have a catastrophic injury.

Of those determined to be catastrophically injured, I don't have a breakdown of those with a catastrophic injury who might be eligible for other payments, but we have specifically said that the threshold will not apply to these veterans due to the known severity of their injuries. More generally, Senator Lambie, I know that you are interested in the policy work that's underway in relation to allied health.

You've asked questions in this place about it previously. It is perhaps worth emphasising, as Senator Wong did in her earlier answer, that consultation on this measure is ongoing. The minister has specifically sought input from members of the veterans community.

He is working directly with many service organisations, and we look forward to continued engagement with the community as we implement these important reforms. The PRESIDENT: Senator Lambie, first supplementary?