Michael McCormack (Riverina, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

The coalition moved an amendment to bring forward the timing of the first implementation review by the commissioner. I do want to thank the previous shadow minister for veterans' affairs, the member for Gippsland, and his office for the work they put in with the government to bring about this particular amendment and the effect of this amendment. This reform sits within a broader framework originating from the coalition's 2020 policy to establish an independent national commissioner for defence and veteran suicide prevention, as well as the coalition's decision to establish the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. This legislation reflects that policy foundation, and we welcome seeing this important reform brought to fruition.

As originally drafted, the first assessment of the government's implementation of the royal commission's recommendations was not required to be completed until December 2027. This would have meant the report may not have been tabled until 2028, almost four years after the royal commission reported. That timeframe, we felt, was too slow and risked weakening accountability. The coalition's successful amendment requires the first implementation assessment to be completed by no later than 5 February 2027. That timing is reasonable and practical. It marks more than two years since the royal commission's final report and more than a year since the commissioner commenced operation. That is sufficient time to assess whether early-stage reforms are being delivered and whether government commitments are translating into real and genuine action.

Originally, the coalition proposed a reporting date of September 2026. However, in its submission to the committee's review of this bill, the Acting Commissioner of the Defence and Veterans' Services Commission raised concerns that there may not be sufficient time for the government to implement all the royal commission's recommendations. The coalition listened to those concerns and adjusted the proposed date from September 2026 to February 2027. Importantly, the government supported this amendment, and it was agreed to by the Senate. We acknowledge the government's constructive engagement in recognising the importance of bringing the first reporting date forward. There will also be a further statutory review by 2030, providing an opportunity for a more comprehensive assessment of the implementation of the royal commission's recommendations.

This amendment strengthens transparency and reinforces accountability. It does not alter the commissioner's independence or powers. The coalition stands ready to work in a bipartisan way to achieve strong outcomes for veterans, while continuing to scrutinise legislation where necessary to ensure those outcomes are delivered. I thank the House.

Question agreed to.

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