SWAN Hill and District Veterans Information Centre chairman Harold Heslop has welcomed the federal government’s “new benefits” veteran card scheme, but says the incentive “won’t change much”.
“It is basically a continuation of the current card with the same benefits health wise,” Mr Heslop told The Guardian.
“But anything that will improve the conditions for veterans has got to be good.”
The new benefits scheme released at the start of November, will see “thousands of offers” made available to veteran card holders in Mallee from businesses across Australia, as part of the Australian Defence Veterans’ (DVA) covenant.
Member for Mallee Anne Webster said the veteran card would provide the opportunity for businesses and organisations across the country to show their support and recognition of veterans.
“So far around 500 businesses are on board, making more than 10,000 offers available for veteran card holders, both over the counter and online,” Dr Webster said.
“The businesses range from small family businesses through to large chains that operate nationally.”
Mr Heslop said a lot of people had already signed up to the website with discounts at the local veteran information centre.
“Any person is eligible if you have served in the national defence or reserves,” he said.
“Existing DVA holders can also use their existing card — you don’t need to get a new one.”
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.
“Anyone eligible has access to a whole range of discounts through a website called APOD,” Mr Heslop said.
“Existing DVA health card holders can register directly through APOD or when they apply for the covenant through MyService.”
Once card holders are registered with apod.com.au, they can gain access to offers from businesses in Mallee by searching online and using a unique offer code.
Dr Webster said businesses and communities are encouraged to show their support for the covenant by offering benefits or concessions for veteran card holders.
“If you’re a business in Mallee, get on board and support the Australian Defence Veterans’ covenant,” Dr Webster said.
“The service and sacrifice of our veterans and their families to our nation is profound, and supporting our veterans through this program is a positive and tangible way to recognise that.”
Mr Heslop said more than 700 veteran cases had been made through the local veteran information centre since 1997.
“If you want more information or need help signing up for the card, come into our office on Curlewis Street, open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 9am to 3.30pm,” he said.
