NOTICE OF INVESTIGATION
Section 196G of the
Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986
The Repatriation Medical Authority (the Authority) gives notice under section 196G of the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 (the VEA) that, pursuant to subsection 196B(7A) of the VEA, it intends to carry out an investigation in respect of breastfeeding as a factor in malignant neoplasm of the breast.
This investigation will be carried out in the context of Statements of Principles Instrument Nos. 96 & 97 of 2014, as amended, concerning malignant neoplasm of the breast.
The Authority invites the following persons and organisations to make written submissions to the Authority in respect of the investigation:
a person eligible to make a claim for pension under Part II or Part IV of the VEA;
a person eligible to make a claim for compensation under section 319 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (the MRCA);
an organisation representing veterans, Australian mariners, members of the Forces, members of the Peacekeeping Forces, members within the meaning of the MRCA, or their dependants;
the Repatriation Commission or the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission; and
a person having expertise in a field relevant to the investigation.
The Authority will hold its first meeting for the purposes of this investigation on 5 June 2018.
Persons and organisations wishing to make a submission can use the RMA website http://www.rma.gov.au/investigations/ to electronically lodge the submission and supporting information. Alternatively, submissions can be sent by email to info@rma.gov.au or posted to the address below. The RMA Submission Guidelines are available online for guidance. The RMA Secretariat may be contacted at the address, telephone number or email address below for further assistance.
All submissions must be in writing and received by the Authority no later than 18 May 2018.
The Common Seal of the ) Repatriation Medical Authority ) was affixed at the direction of: ) | |
| PROFESSOR NICHOLAS SAUNDERS AO CHAIRPERSON 2 / 3 / 2018 |
Overview
The Repatriation Medical Authority (the Authority) under the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 (the VEA) has announced its intention to conduct an investigation into breastfeeding as a potential factor in malignant neoplasm of the breast, in line with Statements of Principles Instrument Nos. 96 and 97 of 2014, as amended. This initiative is aimed at addressing gaps in understanding how breastfeeding may influence breast cancer risk among veterans, thereby ensuring that all relevant factors are considered in the assessment of veterans' health claims. The Authority has invited written submissions from various stakeholders, including eligible claimants, representative organisations, and experts, to contribute to the investigation. Submissions are due by 18 May 2018, and can be made electronically via the RMA website, by email, or by post. This legislative move reflects the Authority's commitment to evidence-based decision-making in support of veterans' health claims.
Scope and Application
The Repatriation Medical Authority, under Section 196G of the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986, has announced its intention to conduct an investigation into breastfeeding as a factor in malignant neoplasm of the breast, specifically in relation to Statements of Principles Instrument Nos. 96 & 97 of 2014, as amended. This investigation is directed towards understanding the potential links between breastfeeding and breast cancer in the context of veterans' entitlements, aiming to inform policy and support for affected individuals. The invitation for written submissions extends to various stakeholders, including individuals eligible for pensions or compensation under the VEA or Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004, organisations representing veterans or their dependents, relevant government commissions, and experts in relevant fields. This broad scope ensures a comprehensive review, considering diverse perspectives and expertise. The Authority's investigation, while national in scope, focuses specifically on the impact on veterans and related parties, thereby delineating its applicability within the veteran community and related sectors.
The investigation does not explicitly outline exclusions, exemptions, or specific thresholds but invites contributions from a wide array of interested parties, suggesting a broad application within the veteran and medical communities. The geographic and jurisdictional reach of this investigation is inherently tied to the Commonwealth's authority over veterans' affairs and the administration of related acts. While the primary focus is on the implications for veterans and their entitlements, the invitation for submissions from a diverse range of stakeholders indicates an expansive consideration of the issue. The Authority's use of subordinate instruments, such as the RMA website for submission logistics, facilitates the broad engagement of stakeholders while maintaining the investigation's focus on its core objectives.
Key Provisions
The notice of investigation (section 196G) issued by the Repatriation Medical Authority (the Authority) under the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA) outlines an intended investigation into the relationship between breastfeeding and malignant neoplasm of the breast. This investigation is to be conducted in the context of the Statements of Principles Instrument Nos. 96 & 97 of 2014, as amended. The Authority invites submissions from eligible claimants, representatives of veterans and their dependants, and experts in relevant fields. Submissions can be made electronically through the RMA website, via email, or by post, and must be received by 18 May 2018. The first meeting for this investigation is scheduled for 5 June 2018.
The Act imposes several obligations on those invited to submit. Eligible claimants, organisations, and experts are required to prepare and submit written submissions by the specified deadline. Submissions must be in writing and include any relevant supporting information. The RMA website provides electronic lodging options, while alternative submission methods include email and postal services. The RMA Secretariat is available to assist with any queries regarding the submission process.
The Act does not explicitly detail specific offences, penalties, or consequences for failing to meet the obligations under section 196G. However, the omission of submissions or non-compliance with the submission guidelines may impact the ability of the Authority to conduct a thorough investigation. This could potentially affect the outcomes for claimants related to the investigation's findings. While the Act does not specify maximum penalties, the importance of adhering to submission deadlines and guidelines is emphasised to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of the investigation process.