Minister for Health

23rd March 2025

Request for Action on Health Conditions Linked to 2nd Generation Agent Orange Exposure

Dear Minister Butler, 

I am writing to bring to your attention an urgent matter concerning the health and wellbeing of Vietnam veterans’ families, particularly children of veterans exposed to Agent Orange. My father, served in the 17th Construction Squadron in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970, where he was exposed to Agent Orange. I am seeking your support in ensuring that my health issues, which may be related to my father’s exposure, are properly recognized and addressed by the relevant authorities.

My father passed away on 4 March 2015 due to two presumptive conditions related to Agent Orange exposure. Prior to his passing, he was receiving an exposure pension from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) due to his exposure to Agent Orange during his service. As the child of a Vietnam War veteran, I have developed the following six health conditions, which I believe may be linked to his exposure to this toxic chemical:

1. Peripheral Neuropathy

2. Degenerative Disc Disease

3. Musculoskeletal Disorders

4. PTSD

5. Severe Osteoarthritis

6. Ovarian Dermoid Tumour

Despite these serious health issues, I have not received sufficient guidance, medical evaluation, or compensation related to my father’s service and exposure to Agent Orange. I have approached the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) and other relevant agencies but have not received the necessary support to date.

I respectfully request that the government take immediate action to ensure that families of Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange, like myself, receive the recognition, medical care, and compensation they are entitled to. Specifically, I am requesting the following:

1. A TPI Pension, Gold Card, and compensation for second-generation family members of veterans exposed to Agent Orange.

2. A comprehensive review of my health conditions in the context of my father’s exposure.

3. Urgent action to review and improve the support systems for families affected by military service-related toxins.

I trust that you will give this matter the attention it deserves. I look forward to your prompt response and assistance in ensuring that the government provides the necessary support and recognition for the families of Vietnam veterans who have been impacted by Agent Orange exposure.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Danielle