DECLARATION UNDER SUBSECTION 196B(9)
OF THE VETERANS’ ENTITLEMENTS ACT 1986
The Repatriation Medical Authority (the Authority), under subsection 196B(9) of the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (the Act), makes the following declaration in respect of an investigation to review the contents of the Statements of Principles in force under the Act concerning malignant neoplasm of the brain.
On 27 June 2012, the Authority advertised its intention to carry out an investigation pursuant to subsection 196B(7A) of the Act in respect of "carbon monoxide, benzene and other chemicals associated with exhaust fumes" and "smoking" and malignant neoplasm of the brain. The terms of this investigation were broadened in accordance with a Notice of Investigation notified in the Government Notices Gazette of 3 July 2013 to also include "nerve agents" and "oil well fire smoke".
The Authority is of the view that the sound medical-scientific evidence available is not sufficient to justify an amendment to the Statements of Principles, Instrument Nos. 58 and 59 of 2008, as amended by Instrument Nos. 37 and 38 of 2011, concerning malignant neoplasm of the brain.
The Common Seal of the )
Repatriation Medical Authority )
was affixed in the presence of )
PROFESSOR NICHOLAS SAUNDERS AO
CHAIRPERSON 01/11/2013