Vets say more cash will be needed

A $ 350 MILLION cash injection to the Department of Veteran Affairs has been welcomed in Townsville but there are concerns the funding will only address “the tip of the iceberg”.

Tomorrow’s Federal Budget will include $ 350 million to help veterans battle mental health issues including suicide prevention programs, funding to get veterans back to work and access to a greater range of services.

Veteran Morgan Chong served in the army in Townsville from 1999 to 2011 and went on three deployments.

He said he started developing PTSD symptoms after his first deployment to East Timor where he was conducting humanitarian work.

Mr Chong said while the funding was good news, more was needed as sick veterans were often reluctant to admit they had PTSD and seek help.

He said he only sought help after his daughter who was nine at the time started showing signs of secondary PTSD.

“Any money is a step in the right direction but that is just the tip of the iceberg,” Mr Chong said.

“Like most soldiers I refused to believe I had PTSD and I was angry and upset, had trouble controlling my emotions.

“It wasn’t until my family sat me down and said you have to get help otherwise we’re going to leave you.

“I’m a hell of a lot better now but I’m going to have to have ongoing treatment for the rest of my life.”

Mates4Mates CEO Simon Sauer AM CSC said the funding was a good step in the right direction and he hoped it would help fix gaps in services for veterans transitions from defence.

“The proposed $ 10 million on suicide prevention programs is much needed and I’m pleased to see the Government recognising that,” he said.