Members of the Australian Defence force know that they may be placed in harms way in defending their country. There can be no higher sacrifice than laying down ones life. It would be reasonable to expect that the nation would be grateful !
Our defence people have a right to expect that their dependents would be looked after in the event of their death on duty. It therefore comes as something of a shock to learn that elements in their government are suggesting that they take out private life insurance because the nation's compensation falls short !
This obscene suggestion is an affront. Serving in the defence industry is high risk and compensation for both death or serious injury should be at the highest level.
Whoever made the private insurance suggestion was not facing reality. Many insurance companies would not accept a person in a high risk industry, or would insist on a hiked premium as compensation.
Insurance companies offering " accidental death " cover would not accept a battle death as " accidental "- and in many cases policies have a long list of exclusions that cover dangerous sports, flying in private aircraft and similar occupations.
We expect politicians to pass laws that provide a fair outcome for those who risk their lives on our behalf. Obviously compensation for defence personnel is less than adequate - and needs to be urgently reviewed.
To ignore that need would be a national disgrace - and a badge of dishonour !
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