Australian Veteran News (AVN) has reached an important juncture. After a few years of operation, we have decided to take a pause to reflect on our work and consider the best way to support the veteran community moving forward.
From the outset, AVN aimed to provide an independent platform to highlight key issues facing Australian veterans and their families. One of our key focuses was advocating for the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. While our role was modest, we are proud to have contributed to the broader effort for change by raising awareness and encouraging dialogue.
Among our efforts were veteran community surveys and the promotion of research that added to the Royal Commission's understanding of the challenges veterans face. These initiatives, while small in scale, played a part in the ongoing conversation about how best to support those who have served.
The passing of Leo D’Angelo-Fisher, a talented journalist and valued friend, was a significant loss for our team. His thoughtful writing and dedication to the well-being of veterans shaped much of what AVN stood for. His legacy remains an enduring source of inspiration.
Throughout our time, we worked to bring attention to the complexities of veteran services and governance. While the journey is far from complete, we have appreciated the opportunity to contribute to these discussions in our own way.
With the conclusion of the Royal Commission, we believe this is a good moment to pause and assess how AVN can best serve in the future. This step back allows us to consider how the evolving landscape of veteran support might shape our next steps.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who supported AVN—our contributors, readers, critics, and partners. A special mention goes to Eamon Hale, whose articles resonated deeply across the veteran community. We also extend our thanks to Defence Bank for their steadfast support during our journey.
As we take this break, we encourage everyone to continue championing the welfare of veterans. The progress made so far is a testament to the collective commitment of many, and there is still much to be done.
Thank you for being part of our journey.
With heartfelt thanks from the founders of AVN, Mark Schöffel, Trent Dyball, and in memory of our friend Leo D’Angelo Fisher.
Dear Mark,
This sad news indeed!
I wish to thank you and AVN for your journalistic efforts to help expose the rot and legislative theft of 'Schedule 9 Tax Laws Amendment (No. 4 2022) 2022 Bill', which in effect denied the accrued rights (in significant dollar terms) for all 32,000 public sector invalidity recipients, 10,000 of whom are Veterans.
Through an equally egregious piece of legislation, namely: 'Social Services and Other Legislation Amendment (Military Invalidity Payments Means Testing) Bill 2024' we now have the Government attempting to deny Australia's most disabled TPI Veterans their rights to full social security provisions, as the law had always intended.
It is indeed a sad day in paradise to learn that AVN will not…
Very sad to hear this news Mark. You have been a fearless advocate on behalf of veterans at a time sincere support was and is required. Thank you for what you and your team have done. With much respect
David McLachlan
This is indeed very sad news. Your articles have been interesting, informative and have shone a light on Veteran's matters. Every good wish to you all.
Sorry to see you go your artical and reports opened a few eyes,a pity a few more didn't take notice