Linda Reynolds (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

I'd sincerely like to thank all senators who contributed to the debate on this bill. I also acknowledge the continued tradition of bipartisan support for our veterans community in this latest initiative to support our veterans. The government recognises that transitioning from military service to civilian life is a significant life-changing event for many veterans. It is also a period of uncertainty for their family members. This bill demonstrates the commitment this government has made to supporting ADF members to assist them in their successful transition and also to continuing to support them as veterans.

As part of the government's election commitments, this bill will amend the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme Act 2008. This amendment will extend the period in which members can access the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme after they leave the ADF. The access period will be extended from two years to five years, allowing much needed additional time for former ADF members to look for suitable accommodation without being rushed into purchasing a home for fear of losing their entitlements. The bill will also amend the Australian Defence Force Superannuation Act 2015. Importantly, this amendment allows former ADF members who have provided at least 12 months continuous full-time service to continue to make contributions to their ADF Super accounts once they are in civilian employment.

These amendments offer security and certainty to veterans, and also to their families, in accessing housing support and financial planning for their retirement, which are both so important to the successful and rewarding transition to civilian life. I commend this bill.

Question agreed to.

Bill read a second time.