Login
iscover
Veterans who are concerned about having taken anti-malarial drugs mefloquine or tafenoquine can receive a comprehensive health assessment following the announcement of a new $2.1 million federal government initiative.
To continue reading the rest of this article, please log in.
Create free account to get unlimited news articles and more!
Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester confirmed the initiative would be implemented from 1 July 2019, delivering a national program to concerned veterans to receive an assessment to identify service-related illness, disease and injury.
"The government is pleased to present to Parliament its response to the Senate inquiry into the use of quinoline anti-malarial drugs mefloquine and tafenoquine in the Australian Defence Force," Minister Chester said.
"We largely support the views of the Senate inquiry committee and its recommendations, and we acknowledge that some current and former ADF personnel have complex health concerns."
The initiative is aiming to respond to concerns heard from veterans during the recent Senate inquiry and the mefloquine and tafenoquine consultation forums co-ordinated across Australia last year.
The government said that the evidence provided to the inquiry furthered its understanding of how it can better support veterans and their families.
Minister Chester thanked the individuals and organisations who participated in the inquiry for their contribution.
"I would also like to acknowledge everyone who put forward their views on what is an important issue this government takes very seriously," Minister Chester said.
"For some it was a difficult process to provide details about their concerns. Should any of these individuals need support, or someone to talk to, Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling provides 24/7, free, confidential, national-wide counselling.
"For those veterans who are who are concerned about having taken the anti-malarial medications mefloquine and tafenoquine or are seeking information about support available, please contact the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA)."
DVA can be contacted on the designated 1800 MEFLOQUINE (1800 633 567) phone line for support.
