DVA is asking how to run the policy, not whether it should exist

Dear Editor,

DVA is asking veterans, families and clinicians to help shape its allied health reforms.

But the $5000 annual threshold has already been decided, along with a projected $748 million saving over three years.

This is not consultation on whether the policy should exist – it is consultation on how to administer it.

That creates a trap.

Veterans and clinicians may oppose the threshold, then offer advice about safeguards, evidence and approvals if it proceeds.

DVA can later claim the community was heard while leaving the threshold and Budget saving intact.

Participation must not be treated as consent.

The first question should be whether the consultation can recommend removing or replacing the threshold.

The second is where the $748 million saving comes from if every veteran still receives all clinically necessary care without delay or interruption.

Veterans should take part, but make sure their opposition is recorded, not converted into advice on running a policy already decided.

I expand on this argument at markcroxford.net/read

Regards,

Mark Croxford
20-year Navy veteran and
former media and political adviser to a Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel

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