A future Liberal National Party government will provide improved services, more opportunities and stronger representation for our retired servicemen and servicewomen as part of our plan to Build a Better Queensland.
LNP Deputy Leader Deb Frecklington said the comprehensive plan to assist ex-ADF personnel transitioning back into civilian life was a Queensland first.
“Queensland is home to almost 45,000 veterans and I believe they deserve a state-based policy that provides better services and more opportunities for them,” Ms Frecklington said.
“If an LNP Government is elected at the next state election, Queensland will lead Australia in the recognition of, and the help we provide to, former ADF Members.”
Ms Frecklington said the LNP’s comprehensive plan would build better services and better communities by helping veterans in four key ways.
“We will appoint a Minister for Veterans’ Affairs responsible for leading strategies aimed at ensuring that State Government services are better targeted to this group,” she said.
“We will commit to a target of increasing the number of ex-ADF personnel working in the public service - providing proper recognition of their military training and how that fits into roles within the Queensland Government.
“This will see more veterans working in the public service, with their extensive skills, training and experience ensuring we deliver better government.”
LNP Bundaberg candidate David Batt said the region was home to a number of ADF personnel, some who had struggled to transition back into civilian life and another career after leaving the Defence Force.
“There is no question the transition from military to civilian life can be challenging especially when it comes to employment,” Mr Batt said.
“A state-based policy is important as Queensland is home to 22 per cent of serving Australian Defence Force personnel.
“We will make sure Queensland Government job websites are updated to provide more information to ex-ADF personnel about the jobs that best link to their skill set.
“Veterans work well in a team, have a sense of duty, they are organised and disciplined, adaptable, problem solvers and have a strong work ethic and that is why the LNP developed this policy to help veterans transition from military to civilian life.”
