Request for Review, Health Ombudsman

2nd April 2025

Request for Review – Neurotoxin Exposure Claim

Dear Health Ombudsman

I am writing to formally request a review of your decision to reject my claim regarding neurotoxin exposure resulting from my father’s service in the Australian Army, 17th Construction Squadron, during the Vietnam War. I strongly believe that my case warrants reconsideration under both domestic and international legal frameworks, particularly those that protect the rights of children from the harmful effects of toxic exposure linked to military service.

International Legal Considerations

I wish to highlight the following international legal instruments that support my claim:

1. United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)

• Article 24(1): Recognizes the right of children to the highest attainable standard of health. Exposure to neurotoxins through generational military-related contamination directly affects this right.

• Article 3(1): States that in all actions concerning children, their best interests shall be a primary consideration. This should extend to ensuring that individuals affected by parental exposure to military toxins receive appropriate recognition and care.

2. Stockholm Declaration (1972) & Rio Declaration on Environment and Development (1992)

• Both recognize the fundamental right to a healthy environment, including protection from long-term toxic exposure due to military activities.

3. International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR)

• Article 12: Establishes the right to the highest standard of physical and mental health, which includes protection from environmental hazards and exposure to harmful substances.

Request for Review

Given the well-documented evidence of the generational effects of exposure to chemicals such as Agent Orange and other neurotoxins used in the Vietnam War, I urge your office to reconsider my claim. Many countries, including the United States, have acknowledged and compensated second-generation victims of such exposure. Australia should ensure its policies align with international human rights and environmental health standards.

I respectfully request a formal review of your decision, taking into account these international legal obligations. Please provide details on the review process and the timeframe for reconsideration.

I look forward to your response. Please confirm receipt of this request at your earliest convenience.

Sincerely,

Danielle