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Media Release: 14 February 2002 War veterans will not be forgotten Many war veterans living in regional areas may still be unaware of their rights and entitlements to pensions simply because it is difficult to access free local advice. "Although World War II and the Vietnam Wars took place some time ago, veterans are still suffering a wide range of health problems and their fight for justice goes on," says veterans advocate Jodie Buchanan. "For those veterans who live outside metropolitan areas, the problems are compounded by isolation and the lack of easily accessible advice services." Ms Buchanan works for Legal Aid's specialist Veterans' Advocacy Service–a team of highly experienced advocates who advise and represent veterans and their dependants in claims under the Veterans' Entitlements Act. Next week, two advocates will visit Coffs Harbour where there is a large veteran community without access to city services. The advocates will hold a one-day advice clinic for veterans and their dependants on Friday, 22 February. Advice will be free, independent and confidential. "As part of our visit we also hope to reach more Aboriginal veterans and their families," says Ms Buchanan. "The lack of recognition given to Aboriginal veterans saw many Aboriginal veterans die without their entitlements. In many cases only their dependants have survived. But it is not too late to do something about past injustice, and by assisting families to gain their entitlements, we hope to become part of our national healing process." Free advice sessions will be available on Friday, 22 February 2002 (9am-4.30pm) at Coffs Harbour Legal Aid Office, 4 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour. For appointments, please call 6651 7899. Dated: Thursday, 14 February 2002 For more information: Jodie Buchanan–9219 5133; Anastasia Toliopoulos–9219 5134 |
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