Geraldton RSL calling on veterans to apply for white cards with advocate set to visit the city

The Geraldton RSL is calling for veterans in the Mid West to apply for their white cards, with an advocate set to come to the area next week. The Department for Veteran’s Affairs white card entitles the holder to medical treatment regarding service-related injuries and conditions, with an assessment allowing for more coverage depending on each individual’s circumstance. In recent times the eligibility has changed, with a minimum of one full day of continuous full-time service with the defence force allowing a person to qualify for the card. It’s the first time an RSL advocate will be coming to Geraldton, where they will do a presentation and meet with veterans looking to apply for a white card. RSLWA chaplain Scott Norman said people who had been denied in previous years would be more likely to get a white card under the new policy. “It’s significant for anyone who’s a veteran, that’s why we’re going to try and get it out as far and wide as possible,” he said. “Even if you have a family member who has served and either was denied or had never applied for one, they need to make an application.” The RSL said people can apply on their own, but are more likely to be approved through an advocate. The advocate will be at Birdwood House at 9.30am on Tuesday, October 1. Anyone seeking eligibility criteria on DVA white cards can visit the department website, while anyone wishing to access defence records can do so on the ADF website.