The Government will extend the GST-free motor vehicle concession for veterans to include a new category of severely injured veterans under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Scheme (MRCS), the Minister for Revenue and Assistant Treasurer, Senator Helen Coonan, announced today.
The revised concession arises from the Government’s decision to implement a new MRCS. The MRCS combines the entitlements available under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986, the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 and the Defence Act 1903. The package delivers on the Government's commitment to care for those who serve in the defence of Australia.
Currently, only veterans who have lost (or effectively lost) a leg or both arms or are on a Totally and Permanently Incapacitated pension under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act are eligible for a GST-free car.
“This measure will extend the GST-free car concession to the new category of severely injured veterans in the MRCS,” Senator Coonan said.
The MRCS has been developed in close consultation with the defence force and veteran communities. The package enhances benefits available in the event of injury or death, particularly for those personnel who are severely incapacitated, and for widowed partners of Australian Defence Force members.
Because this measure affects the GST revenue base, it is subject to the unanimous agreement of the states and territories who receive the GST revenue.
The measure will have effect from the date of Royal Assent of the enabling legislation.