VC duo salute Rinehart

Gina Rinehart has opened the first of four Brisbane accommodation complexes for homeless and at-risk veterans.

The Norman Park complex, named the Daniel Keighran VC Apartments, was officially opened on Monday, with the Queensland-born Victoria Cross winner in attendance.

Mr Keighran received the highest gallantry award for his actions while serving with the 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, in Afghanistan in 2010.

He was joined by fellow veteran and VC winner Ben Roberts-Smith at the opening of the much-needed facility.

“It’s humbling and an absolute honour to have my name associated with a facility that will no doubt transform the lives of so many veterans doing it tough,” Mr Keighran said.

Mrs Rinehart said stable housing was essential to helping veterans rebuild their lives.

“I’m doing this because the government might attend medal ceremonies and other photograph opportunities, but they won’t open the doors of the unused barracks or other defence accommodation … to let our veterans in and out of the cold,” she said.

“Stable secure housing is the basic foundation needed to help turn homeless veterans’ lives around.”

The complex is one of four Brisbane properties acquired under Mrs Rinehart, with two of the remaining three already at full capacity. The third is expected to welcome veterans next month.

Veterans Housing Australia will manage the Norman Park facility alongside The Salvation Army. It is the sixth such complex Ms Rinehart has opened for veterans, as part of a $200m commitment to house them.