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Political games an “insult” to veterans

Political games an “insult” to veterans
Sean Car

An ongoing game of political football over who should take responsibility for the former repatriation clinic at 310 St Kilda Rd continues to anger the veteran community.

A widely supported proposal by the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum (ANVAM) to become the site’s trustee and repurpose the building into an arts and cultural space for veterans, continues to hang in limbo.

The group was given its biggest sign of hope this month after the site’s current owner, the Department of Defence, confirmed that the state government had expressed interest in purchasing the site.

However, these hopes were quickly dashed in spite of the news, with Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley still adamant that “the ball is in the federal government’s court” to complete a business case.

“The Commonwealth has yet to provide a business case or other details as to what the site might be utilised for or details of its renovations and make safe and other costs,” he said.

“As the welfare and support for veterans rehabilitation and support back into our community continues to be a responsibility of the Commonwealth we look forward to the federal government successfully resolving these issues before the Victorian Government could consider how this important site could be accommodated within the arts and cultural precinct.”

ANVAM director Mark Johnston described Minister Foley’s response as an “insult” to veterans, stating that the government had already commissioned a business case for the project.

“As for a business case, that was prepared by ANVAM for Creative Victoria at the state government’s request,” he said. “If the state is not convinced this is the appropriate use, what feedback have they provided to the Commonwealth to guide them in their thinking?”

“It is especially disappointing that a heritage site built for WWI veterans, no less, would become a political football during the centenary of the WWI period. For those veterans who returned and suffered as a result of their service to Australia, this response from a senior minister is, in my eyes, an insult to their memory and service.”

The Coalition’s Federal Minister for Veteran’s Affairs Darren Chester declined to comment on the issue when contacted by Southbank Local News.

While both sides and levels of government continue their refusal in making any clear commitment, federal Labor’s policy on the proposal under leader Bill Shorten is as clear as day.

“A Shorten Labor Government will fund the establishment of the Australian National Veterans Arts Centre (ANVAC) adjacent to the Victoria Barracks,” a statement on its website reads.

The policy disconnect between state and federal Labor on the issue would suggest that the state is playing a waiting game to see whether Australia votes for a Shorten Labor government in 2019.

However, official confirmation of its interest in purchasing the site last month puts this suggestion further at odds with the veteran community.

“The Victorian Government has advised Defence of its interest in purchasing 310 St Kilda Rd,” a Defence Department spokesperson told Southbank Local News. “Defence is working with the Victorian Department of Treasury and Finance to progress this matter.”

“Defence recognises and appreciates the work of the ANVAM and the important role it plays in supporting the wellbeing of current and former service members.”

Southbank Residents’ Association (SRA) president and returned serviceman Tony Penna said he continued to be troubled by the slow progress in returning the space to its original use – caring for veterans.

“This initiative is fitting for this venue through being in the arts precinct and its history of supporting veterans from past conflicts,” he said. “Art is a great form of release for these members of our community who have often endured so much.”

“Why does it seem veterans need to fight for every bit of support and to be heard. This is a no-brainer, c’mon ministers, let’s get this finalised.”

For more information on the project visit anvam.org.au

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