Tuesday, 17th February 2026

The VAC held its 99th meeting on 12 February 2026 at Torrens Parade Ground, Adelaide, chaired by Prof Miranda Van Hooff.

Key Items of Discussion

Chair Update

The Chair provided an update following a meeting with Minister Szakacs on 9 February 2026. Key points included:

  • The Minister has indicated support for progressing work towards a whole‑of‑government Veterans’ Strategy, with Veterans SA to prepare further advice for consideration.
  • The Minister supported proceeding with a VAC Strategic Planning Day.
  • VAC member vacancies will remain on hold until after the State Election.

New Business

National Peak ESO Body

Members noted the Returned & Services League of Australia’s announcement regarding the appointment of Nick Booth MVO to lead work on establishing a national peak body for veteran service organisations, as recommended by the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.

Members noted that further updates will be circulated out of session.

Veterans SA Update

The Director of Veterans SA provided a comprehensive update on recent activities, including:

  • Delivery of career, employment and transition programs, including Careers & Conversations sessions, regional outreach in Mount Gambier, and participation in upcoming transition and employment events.
  • Progression of career and leadership initiatives, including the Defence Industry Leadership Program pilot, the 2026 Career and Business Mentoring Program, and the upcoming launch of the South Australian Veterans Employer Network.
  • Outcomes from education and scholarship programs, including the 2026 Tertiary Scholarship Program.
  • Updates on grant and commemoration activity, including strong demand for the Anzac Day Commemoration Fund and successful South Australian outcomes under the DVA Saluting Their Service program.
  • Ongoing community partnerships, including continued demand for the Power Community Limited ADF Veterans Program.
  • Release of the refreshed Veterans SA Strategic Outlook and 2026 Action Plan.
  • Advice that the State Election caretaker period commences on 21 February 2026.

South Australian Business

VHAC Update

A summary of the VHAC meeting held on 24 November 2025:

  • A change in VHAC representation, with Alex Houthuysen replacing Frank Lampard.
  • The next VHAC meeting is scheduled for 23 February 2026.

DVA DC Forum

Members noted the December 2025 forum and that discussion focused on the establishment of a national ESO peak body.

DVA Younger Veterans – Contemporary Needs Forum

Members noted:

  • Circulation of a consultation paper on strengthening protections in the veteran advocacy sector, including proposed regulatory measures.
  • Establishment of a new Veterans’ Ministerial Advisory Committee. Members highlighted the importance of South Australian representation and noted the need for clarity regarding interaction with existing forums.

Other Business

Members discussed and noted a range of matters of relevance to veterans and families, including:

  • Ongoing discussions with Open Arms, including eligibility for children, information‑sharing arrangements and reporting thresholds.
  • Concerns regarding the impact of recent media reporting about the ADF Sex Discrimination Class Action, particularly on the wellbeing of affected women.
  • Proposed Administrative Review Tribunal amendments, with concerns raised about reliance on written submissions.
  • Announcement relating to rehabilitation funding, noting access requirements.
  • Progress towards establishment of a Veterans’ Court, with stakeholder engagement underway.
  • Potential impacts of announced Defence estate sales, with feedback to be compiled for Ministerial consideration.
  • Testing of a new DVA funding model, with further information to be circulated.
  • Planning for Veterans’ Families Day, with support for continuing the previous format.

Next Meeting

The next meeting of the VAC is scheduled for Thursday, 7 May 2026, at Torrens Parade Ground.

To contact the VAC directly regarding South Australian-based veteran issues, please:

  1. Send an email to the VAC inbox: [email protected]
  2. Type “For Note” in the subject line, followed by the subject.
  3. Include details of the agenda item in the body of the email.