Member for Capricornia

Subject: Response to DVA Feedback Regarding Agent Orange (TCDD) Second-Generation Harm

Email sent 26th April 2025

Dear Danielle, (Michelle Laundry)

Thank you very much for forwarding the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) response and for your ongoing assistance on my behalf.

I appreciate the acknowledgment that the Australian Government recognizes the causal link between exposure to Agent Orange (TCDD) and a range of health conditions for veterans, as well as the information provided regarding the Vietnam Veterans’ Sons and Daughters Support Program (VVSDSP).

However, I would like to respectfully clarify that my enquiry goes beyond the scope of the VVSDSP.

My concerns relate to the systemic failure to recognize and address the full range of second-generation health impacts associated with parental exposure to TCDD, as documented in international scientific research.

The VVSDSP only recognizes four conditions for children of veterans, yet global evidence demonstrates that second-generation exposure to TCDD can result in a much broader spectrum of serious, lifelong health issues — including but not limited to spinal malformations, autoimmune disorders, neurological conditions, and peripheral neuropathy.

I am seeking action to:

Expand recognition beyond the four VVSDSP-listed conditions, in line with current international medical-scientific evidence; and

Review and update Statements of Principles (SoPs) and relevant legislation to properly account for second-generation harm caused by Agent Orange (TCDD) exposure.

I would also like to highlight that Australia’s obligations under international human rights conventions — including the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) — require a thorough, non-discriminatory approach to protecting the rights and health of second-generation victims of chemical exposure.

While I appreciate the assistance offered to resubmit medical certification under the VVSDSP, I reiterate that the current framework is inadequate to meet the broader issue raised in my complaint.

I would be grateful if this concern could be formally conveyed to the Minister, the Department, and any relevant stakeholders for urgent consideration.

Thank you again for your time and assistance. I look forward to your advice on the next steps available to escalate this matter.

Kind regards,

Danielle

Reply from Michelle Laundry’s Office

Email received 7th May 2025

Hi Danielle,

I just wanted to quickly email you and let you know that I will resubmit this through the relevant ministerial office following the election. I will have to wait and see who is appointed to the portfolio before I do anything more.

I will keep in touch

Thanks

Dannielle Martin | Office Manager

Office of The Hon Michelle Landry MP

Federal Member for Capricornia