B14/1993 SOMALIA - COVERAGE UNDER VEA FOR SERVICE BY ADF MEMBERS

DATE OF ISSUE:  24 February 1993

SOMALIA - COVERAGE UNDER VEA FOR SERVICE BY ADF MEMBERS

Purpose

The purpose of this instruction is to advise that Somalia has been designated an operational area for the purpose of the Veterans' Entitlements Act (VEA).

Background

2.On 17 December 1992 the Minister for Defence proposed that service in Somalia be operational service for the purposes of the VEA.  The proposal was supported by the Minister for Veterans' Affairs who also agreed that ADF Members be eligible for qualifying service.  These provisions are to apply equally to members of Operation Restore Hope and UNOSOM.

3.On 7 January 1993 the acting Prime Minister agreed that, until Operation Restore Hope is finalised, service in  Somalia be operational service.

Coverage under the VEA

4.Action will be taken to amend Schedule 2 and Section 7A of the VEA as soon as possible.

Further Action

5.Dates have yet to be finalised and further advice will be distributed when legislation is passed.

Peter Hawker

NATIONAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR (BENEFITS)