Darren Chester (Gippsland, National Party, Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

I am sad to report that an outbreak of arrogance and hubris has infected the entire Labor caucus. How else can we explain the mean-spirited plan, with its complete lack of respect, which is the Labor proposal to put a use-by date on 'we will remember them'? This is without any consultation—no consultation whatsoever—with service organisations and without any proof that there is a problem to be solved. The Labor Party is removing rights for Australian Defence Force personnel and veterans to appeal decisions which would impact some of the most heroic Australians in our history. Under the legislation the Labor Party rammed through the House of Reps, which everyone over there voted for, Teddy Sheean doesn't get a VC, Richard Norden doesn't get a VC, Harry Smith's troops at Long Tan do not get the medallion recognition they so rightly deserve, and the Labor Party voted for it.

I say to the minister: why? Why, Minister? You can't hide forever. This missing-in-action minister has given no reason whatsoever as to why he has gone down this pathway. Why is your government showing no respect to veterans and no respect to Australian Defence Force personnel? Why won't you just bin this bad bill before you do more— (Time expired)

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