Caz Heise, independent candidate for Cowper, is proud to unveil her policy paper Supporting our veterans and their families aimed at providing veterans and their families with the support they rightfully deserve.
“Our veterans and their families deserve better support for the sacrifices they’ve made. Today, I announce my commitment to ensuring timely access to healthcare, mental health support, and advocacy services that honour their service to our nation.”
“Veterans are not just numbers or statistics; they are our brothers, sisters, friends, and neighbours. Their sacrifices require our unwavering commitment to provide the support and resources they need to thrive. If elected, I will fight tirelessly to create a system where no veteran is left behind.”
Acknowledging the myriad challenges that veterans face during their transition from military to civilian life, Caz emphasised the profound adjustments many must confront - often compounded by trauma and injuries related to their service.
“We cannot overlook the vital role of families in this transition,” she continued. “They often shoulder the burden of navigating complex systems while providing essential emotional and financial support. We must empower them every step of the way.”
Caz advocates for significantly expanded support services for veterans' families.
“Families are the backbone of our veterans' reintegration into civilian life,” she explained. “We need to provide tailored services, accessible information and support to help families navigate this challenging journey.”
In response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, Caz has pledged to champion the full implementation of all 122 recommendations.
“It’s crucial that we don’t just adopt the easy recommendations,” she asserted. “We must pursue comprehensive action that addresses the systemic failures in support services to prevent future tragedies.”
Caz has outlined her support for expediting claims processing. “We must shift the culture from adversarial scrutiny to proactive support,” she emphasised. “Veterans deserve timely assistance, not bureaucratic red tape.”
Recognising the significant mental health challenges faced by veterans and their families, Caz will support greater access to mental health services.
“No one should suffer in silence,” she stated. “We need holistic treatment options, including alternative therapies, to effectively address issues like PTSD.”
Caz’s policy also includes targeted training programs for healthcare providers, social workers, and advocates, ensuring they have specialised knowledge to best support veterans and their families.
“Equipping professionals with the right tools is essential for creating an informed and compassionate support network,” she added.
Caz Heise will propose the establishment of comprehensive transition programs for veterans and their families that facilitate a smoother shift from military to civilian life.
“It’s vital that we bridge the gap between service and homecoming,” Caz explained. “Our programs must focus on employment assistance, ongoing education, and community integration, ensuring veterans feel welcomed and valued in civilian society.”
For more information about Caz Heise's policies or to get involved in her campaign, please visit What I stand For