Orange will host the 2025 NSW Veterans and Defence Community Forum, bringing the event west of the Great Dividing Range for the first time. The forum, scheduled for October 30, was secured following advocacy from Nationals Duty MLC for Orange, Scott Barrett. Mr Barrett said the move will give veterans across the Central West a stronger voice in shaping the services and support they rely on. “There are about 10,000 veterans living throughout the Central West,” he said. “Many face challenges that differ from those in metropolitan or coastal areas, such as limited support services, reduced access to healthcare and greater risks of social isolation. “This forum will be an excellent chance to make sure those regional voices are heard.” Mr Barrett first raised the idea at Parliamentary Budget Estimates earlier this year, before lodging a formal request. The Minister for Veterans, David Harris, confirmed the event last week. “We followed up on your suggestion, thought it was a great idea and we’re doing it,” Mr Harris said. Mr Barrett said he was pleased the forum had been locked in for Orange and believed it would mean a lot to local veterans and their families.
