32. The ex-gratia scheme was introduced in August 2005 in recognition of the unique working environment experienced by participants during the four formal F-111 deseal/reseal programs. It provides a one-off ex-gratia payment of $40,000 to personnel who meet the Tier 1 definition and $10,000 to personnel who meet the tier 2 definition. Applications under the ex-gratia scheme are still being accepted.
33. Claims from deceased estates under the ex-gratia scheme were excluded where the death of the F-111 worker occurred before 8th September 2001. Recommendation 10 of the Parliamentary Inquiry removed this exclusion and provided access to the ex-gratia scheme in respect of deceased estates for former F-111 fuel tank workers with eligibility for Tier 1 or Tier 2 classification where the death occurred before 8th September 2001.
34. Applications for the ex-gratia scheme are to be determined at the EL1 level and above. There is no formal appeal process available to applicants under ex-gratia schemes. However requests for reconsideration of the original decision are to be referred to the Assistant Secretary, Case Escalation and MRCA Review.