Thursday 17 September 2026

Veterans have been given a life-changing and in many cases life-saving win after the Coalition forced Labor to ‘scrap the cap’ on allied health services.

Dr Anne Webster MP said today’s decision belonged to the veterans who stood up and made their voices heard.

“This is a victory for veterans, their families and everyone who stood alongside them and refused to give up,” Dr Webster said.

“Our veterans have served our country and sacrificed for our way of life. They should never have had to fight their own government for the health care they need.”

Dr Webster said Labor’s $5,000 cap on allied health care for veterans never should have seen the light of day.

“I want to thank the veterans of Australia who have fought so hard on this crucial issue.

“Our veterans are Australia’s heroes. They are the reason we can enjoy our freedom, our way of life, and the democracy we take for granted. This is their win that they deserve.”

Fair Care for Veterans spokesman John Armfield, a former Navy clearance diver, said this is what happens when a government listens to veterans.

“Veterans, families and doctors came from all over the country to say one thing: this cap would only ever hurt the most badly injured,” Mr Armfield said.

“Today the Minister agreed, and we thank him for it. Nobody had to lose for this to happen. The Minister made the right call, and he deserves credit for it.

“The Minister says he wants to keep talking to veterans and providers. We welcome that, and we'll be there. We'll also make sure whatever comes next doesn't bring the cap back under another name. We thank the Coalition for standing by our side in this fight, along with independent Senators. We could not have done this without their moral clarity.”

‍