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Parliamentary Questions


Question Without Notice No. 1121 asked in the Legislative Council on 20 October 2020 by Hon Peter Collier

Parliament: 40 Session: 1

DEPARTMENT OF JOBS, TOURISM, SCIENCE AND INNOVATION — VETERANS ISSUES

1121. Hon PETER COLLIER to the minister representing the Minister for Veterans Issues:

This question is asked on behalf of Hon Tjorn Sibma, who is on urgent parliamentary business. I refer to the transfer of the veterans issues portfolio from the Department of Communities to the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, which was reported in the 2020–21 budget papers.

(1) What was the rationale for the transfer of responsibilities between agencies?

(2) Could the minister confirm that the allocation of approximately $131 000 to the veterans issues portfolio in 2020–21, and similar amounts over the forward estimates, relates to the employment of a single full-time equivalent position?

(3) If yes to (2), can the minister table a copy of the job description form or forms outlining the roles and responsibilities of the officer or officers?

(4) What progress has been made regarding the implementation of the government's Western Australian veterans and families strategy since the strategy was launched in August last year?

Hon STEPHEN DAWSON replied:

I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question.

(1) This transition is in alignment with both the McGowan government's veterans and families strategy and the Western Australian defence and defence industries strategic plan. While government will continue to acknowledge the service and sacrifice of our veteran community, supporting veteran pathways into civilian employment and leveraging off their underutilised economic potential is an essential task whereby the state can provide value. By encouraging the employment of veterans, we harness the skills, knowledge and attitudes gained through service with the Australian Defence Force, not only in the growing defence industries but also all other employment sectors throughout our state. An emphasis on employment is crucial in supporting veterans to find a new sense of purpose and identity, and will assist in alleviating some of the issues, including mental health challenges, that veterans face. The McGowan government is committed to supporting our veteran communities and will continue to work to better integrate former ADF members into civilian employment.

(2) Yes.

(3) No, the job description form is currently being redrafted in anticipation of the position being advertised to be filled on a permanent basis.

(4) Following the transition of the portfolio to the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, the veterans issues team continues to progress the five themes identified in the strategy of recognition, understanding, support, participation and commemoration of Western Australia's veteran community.