Dear Editor,
I refer to recent media reports about the Department of Veterans Affairs refusing to provide access to treatment for victims of abuse in the defence force.
Unfortunately it is both sad and frustrating that I report these cases are not isolated. I have many clients who are struggling to get the access to treatment they deserve, particularly for psychological conditions.
Psychological trauma is every bit as debilitating as physical trauma and it is absolutely imperative that victims get the support and the treatment they need.
More often than not, this psychological trauma is compounded by the challenges veterans, ex veterans, members and ex members face when dealing with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
This has been a problem for many years but I have faith the current Government will take these issues seriously and trust that they will endeavour to treat our military personnel better.
Brian Briggs
Slater & Gordon