Media Release

KAP Leader and Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter has blasted politicians that have lost sight of the importance of ANZAC Day and our returned servicemen by refusing to bring their military superannuation pensions in line with aged care pensions.

In October 2012 Mr Katter introduced The Fair Indexation of Military Superannuation Entitlements Bill 2012, which requires military veterans to have their superannuation pensions indexed in the same way as other Australian government income support pensions. Currently, returned servicemen have their superannuation indexed only in line with movements in the CPI.

“It is with deep embarrassment, particularly on ANZAC Day that politicians have kicked their salaries up about 130 per cent but the people that fight for our country get absolutely nothing,” Mr Katter said.

“After having discussions with leading defence associations we drafted legislation to deliver fair indexation of pensions that veterans so desperately require and have for many years, fought like tigers in vain for."

On 31st October, Mr Katter’s Bill was referred to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services.

“This legislation, instead of being debated and put to Parliament as it should be, has been sent to yet another committee wasting more taxpayer dollars on further reports and inquiries,” said Mr Katter.

“ANZAC Day is a timely reminder for veterans, their families and for the general public to acknowledge the sacrifices that Australians have made, and continue to make, for our country.

“We urge people to contact their local member of parliament and let them know how important it is to them that we look after the people on the frontline, who protect our freedom.

“ANZAC Day should be an occasion of National Remembrance, one of the most important in our country’s history.

“Together Australians should honour those who died in the service of their country and to honour returned servicemen and women by supporting them with fair indexation of their pensions,” Mr Katter said.