MR P. PAPALIA (Warnbro — Minister for Veterans Issues) [1.08 pm]: I rise to inform the house of the launch of a new accommodation facility dedicated to supporting veterans who have fallen on hard times. Sir Valston Hancock House in South Perth is Western Australia’s first targeted accommodation program for veterans. It is a joint initiative between the Australian Air Force Association (WA Division), the Returned and Services League of Australia WA and Hancock Prospecting. The facility was made possible through the generous contribution of Mrs Gina Rinehart, AO, and her company Hancock Prospecting. It is named in honour of Mrs Rinehart’s Uncle Val, who served with a distinguished military career as a senior officer in the Royal Australian Air Force. Sir Valston Hancock served as Chief of the Air Staff and paved the way for defence industry investment in Western Australia. I was honoured to be a guest at the official opening alongside the federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, Hon Matt Keogh; and His Excellency the Governor, Chris Dawson, AC, APM. I had the opportunity to inspect the facilities, which have been refurbished to deliver nine two-bedroom apartments, and I can say that this program has the potential to change lives. Around 330 veterans return to civilian life in Western Australia each year. Although most do not need assistance, we must ensure that there are targeted programs for those who do. Across Australia, nearly 6 000 current and former Australian Defence Force personnel face difficulty securing accommodation—a rate nearly three times higher than the broader population. The Cook Labor government is committed to improving the lives of WA veterans. This is evident in the record support and funding we have provided to the Anzac Day Trust. Since 2021, the state government has contributed $1.3 million per year to the Anzac Day Trust grants program, an increase of $1 million per year. This includes funding for Working Spirit and RSLWA for a veteran employment program to assist veterans transitioning to the civilian workforce. Other major projects include the establishment of a pilot psychiatric assistance dogs program and the introduction of an incarcerated veterans program. I want to commend Mrs Rinehart for her generosity and acknowledge the significant veterans employment opportunities provided through Hancock Prospecting and related companies. I am pleased to see the private sector’s efforts complementing the government’s ongoing support and shared commitment to the wellbeing of our veterans. I thank the Royal Australian Air Force Association WA and RSLWA for making this shared project a reality. Sir Valston Hancock House is another example of the spirit of collaboration that exists in the WA ex–service organisation community. Through these partnerships, we can ensure our veterans receive the care, respect and opportunities they deserve.
