Australian Defence Force veterans will be able to access thousands of special discounts as businesses across the nation say ‘thank you for your service’.

 

The new Veteran Card released today by the Morrison Government will be available to all veterans as a practical demonstration of respect and recognition for their service.

 

Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester will officially launch the Veteran Card today, which gives Australian business owners the opportunity to practically demonstrate thanks and respect for those who have served.

 

The Prime Minister said Australians had a great deal of respect for those who have served our nation in the uniforms of the Navy, Army and Air Force, and through the Veteran Card, veterans would have access to more than 10,000 offers from around 500 businesses, both over the counter and online.

 

“Much like the lapel pin gives every day Australians the opportunity to recognise veterans and thank them for their service, the offers available through the veteran card allow the business community to show its thanks,” the Prime Minister said.

 

“The broader recognition package we’ve developed which includes the Veterans Covenant, the lapel pin and card is a way each and every one of us, including the business community, can say to our veterans ‘thank you for your service’.”

 

More than 33,000 veterans and reservists have already applied and will begin receiving their covenant packs in the coming days.

 

Mr Chester will launch the card at Pushys in Fyshwick this morning along with representatives from other participating businesses and Australian Partners of Defence (APOD), which is partnering with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to connect clients with the business community.

 

“Our Government is committed to putting veterans and their families first and we provide more than $11 billion every year in support for veterans and their families,” Mr Chester said.

“Bringing corporate Australia on board will be a tangible benefit to the veteran community, with the card providing access to services and benefits for eligible veterans.

 

“We are proud to be partnering with APOD — an organisation founded and run by veteran families for veteran families — to ensure veterans can easily find local businesses in their area that are showing that respect and recognition of their service.

 

“There are a wide range of businesses already participating, from retailers with hundreds of outlets Australia-wide through to veteran-owned and operated small businesses.

 

“There is no set criteria for how businesses choose to show that respect and recognition, but I have no doubt we will see the numbers grow with more businesses supporting the covenant and veterans and their families have made.

 

“I encourage all businesses to get on board with the Australian Defence Veterans’ Covenant and show their respect and recognition for those who have served to defend our nation.”

 

Businesses honouring the Veteran Card include retailers, travel and tourism operators, accommodation and car hire, entertainment, hospitality, restaurants, as well as service and trade industries such as gyms to automotive mechanics. Offers are generally discounts on goods, gift cards and services, and range from 2.5 per cent to 40 per cent off. For more information on the offers available to Veteran Card holders, visit www.apod.com.au

 

The Covenant encourages better recognition of the unique nature of military service and helps veterans and their families connect with the broader Australian community. More information on how to apply for and support the Covenant is available at www.recognition.dva.gov.au

 

Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling, provides support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families. Free and confidential help is available 24/7. Phone 1800 011 046 (international: +61 1800 011 046 or +61 8 8241 4546) or visit www.OpenArms.gov.au