TasmanianVeterans’AdvisoryCouncil

Communiqué

Tasmanian Veterans’ Advisory Council – 13 July 2012

The Tasmanian Veterans’ Advisory Council (TVAC) held a meeting at the Inveresk Tramsheds in Launceston on Friday 13 July 2012.

The meeting was preceded by a Meet and Greet session, which members of the local ex-service community attended to meet TVAC members and talk with them about issues of concern and interest.

The following issues were discussed and considered:

·  The second round of the War Memorial Repair and Maintenance Grants Program has been undertaken. The list of successful applicants was tabled and can be found online at http://www.dpac.tas.gov.au/divisions/cdd/grants_and_community_engagement/grants/war_memorial_grants_program

·  There was a discussion about the organisation of the annual State Government Reception for returning serving personnel. The Reception will be held in Hobart in early December. The Council proposed that the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs could present a Certificate of Thanks to Tasmanians who have served on operations during the year.

·  Centenary of World War One/Anzac. The Council agreed that the State Government must commence planning for commemorations in Tasmania or risk being unprepared, particularly in relation to financial support that may be available from the Commonwealth. The Chair will write to the Minister with this advice.

·  Identification of veterans. There was further discussion about the paper that Alex Thomson prepared for the Council’s consideration. Jan Hyde reported that the paper had been considered by the First Assistant Secretary Client and Commemorations in DVA.

·  There was discussion about how TVAC can work with ex-service organisations to promote discussion about common issues. It was agreed that TVAC needs to promote its work more in the community and within ex-service organisations.

·  The TVAC workplan will be reviewed and updated to ensure that it reflects the Council’s priorities and issues raised by the community that can be addressed by the State Government.

·  There was discussion about the desecration of war memorials.

·  The Term of Appointment for six current members expires on 31 August 2012. A public call for Expressions of Interest for membership will be made. Current members are eligible to re-apply.

The next TVAC meeting is scheduled for October in St Helens.