[David Grima]

Afternoon all,
Has anyone received enquiries from Young Veterans about their eligibility for a rebate?
Our counter staff applied the letter of the law (I believe) and denied the veteran a rebate when he presented a gold card at the counter that did NOT have either EDA or TPI stamped on it.
The Veteran contacted me to advise that our legislation discriminated against Young Veterans and pointed me in the direction of the RMS website.
Honestly I did not understand what he was talking about:-

“I think you maybe mistaken on this point, and request that you review the following paragraphs and RTA website as a good example of policy that reflects the current legislative agenda.
the net sum of the argument is a TPI/EDA is a MRCA 50 point veteran (see blue highlighting).
As your policy reflects the pre 2004 legislation and discriminates against young veterans, as, young veterans who are TPI or EDA are not award impairment points and not TPI and EDA thresholds like the pre 2004 legislation frame work, the following extract comes from the RTA website, this website reflect the change in legislation (2004) as it shows (highlighted in yellow) what is required for a young veteran to be classed in the terms of the old legislation. ie. a young veteran who is “awarded” 50 points under there legislation is a EDA or TPI under the old legislation.”

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated,

Dave

[Andrew Butcher]

Both Dave and I have been in contact with the OLG on this topic.

The OLG have advised that the Gold Card recipient needs to be EDA or TPI to be an eligible pensioner.

We are waiting to receive a copy of the ‘RTA’ website information and some additional support documentation from the ratepayer, will provide an update once received.

Regards,

Andrew

[Susan Scott]

Whilst I don’t know what he’s talking about, and appreciate Andrew & Dave contacting OLG, I would point out that it’s not COUNCIL’S legislation but OLG’s. It makes no difference what the age is; I’ve had a couple of relatively young applicants(as in around early 40’s) with TPI embossed cards, so how is age a factor?

[Andrew Butcher]

Hi Susan

I do agree with your comment and also not aware of any age criteria. I contacted the OLG to confirm that there had not been any amendments to the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 or Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 referred to in the regulations that may enable eligibility.

The RMS have some additional criteria on their website which may be the difference, as you have pointed out it will be necessary for the OLG to provide advice if any changes are required.

Will let you know what transpires.

Regards,
Andrew

[Author]

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