A dedicated online veterans’ portal set up by the Palaszczuk Government late last year has been updated with more features and greater functionality, following consultation with veterans and support groups.
The one-stop-shop veterans’ portal helps ex-Australian Defence force members and their families search for and connect with information, services and supports.
Launching the updated online portal today (19 September), Minister for Communities Coralee O’Rourke said the Palaszczuk Government had listened to veterans and veteran organisations and used their feedback to make improvements.
“Since the initial launch of the portal in December 2018, we have consulted extensively with veterans and veteran organisations about the portal,” Mrs O’Rourke said.
“Through a series of nine workshops across Queensland, an online engagement platform and several workshops and meetings in Brisbane, we were given nine recommendations on how we could make the portal even better.
“Veterans told us the portal was needed, and that it was useful, and suggested a few ways we could make it even more accessible and easier to use.
“The portal has been updated with a more streamlined layout, added categories of information and help for support organisations so they know how to register on the portal.”
One of the key features of the portal is the oneplace search tool, which allows veterans to search for services in their local area and displays the results on a map.
Mrs O’Rourke said the portal also included employment pathways for veterans to explore employment options outside of the Australian Defence Force.
“Veterans can also search the portal for accommodation and housing services and support, counselling and mental health services and information about concessions,” she said.
“The delivery of this online portal forms part of a number of important projects we’re working on to support our ex-Australian Defence Force members, including The Oasis Townsville veterans’ hub.
“We want our veterans to be able to participate and be included in their thriving communities, be resilient and enjoy social and economic wellbeing.”
Visit www.qld.gov.au/veterans to access the online portal.
