Orange will host the 2025 NSW Veterans and Defence Community Forum on October 30, following a successful request from Member of the NSW Legislative Council Scott Barrett.
Mr Barrett, the Nationals Duty MLC for Orange, said bringing the event west of the Great Dividing Range for the first time will be an excellent chance to address some of the particular issues faced by regional veterans.
“This will be a great chance to address some of the systemic issues facing veterans in central and western areas of NSW such as increased chances of social isolation, limited support services and less availability of healthcare.”
“There are 10,000 veterans living throughout the Central West, all of whom face different challenges to those living in metropolitan areas or on the coast.”
“It’s so important that regional voices are heard as the Government shapes future support for NSW veterans,” Mr Barrett said.
The request was first made at Parliamentary Budget Estimates at the beginning of the year, immediately followed with a formal request by Mr Barrett. The announcement was made by Mr Harris today who acknowledged Mr Barrett’s advocacy.
“I want to thank Minister Harris for bringing the Veterans Forum to Orange, I know it will mean a lot to local veterans,” Mr Barrett said.