A Mandurah real estate business has become the first in the region to take up a new federal government scheme to offer financial assistance to our veterans.
The government recently passed the Veteran Card initiative in parliament as part of the Australian Defence Veterans' Covenant.
Matt and Karen Ikin have been the driving force for Harcourts Mandurah to offer a 10 per cent discount on commission to veterans if they sell their property through the Pinjarra Road business.
Mr Ikin, who served in the Australian Army for 16 years, said it was a great idea and Harcourts had liaised with Mandurah RSL.
"It is the least we can do for veterans," he said.
"As a proud veteran of 16 years in the Australian Army, with a couple of overseas deployments under my belt, I am so happy to announce that Harcourts Mandurah will offer an automatic 10 per cent discount on commission on any property sold for any veterans who hold a DVA card, Vetscard or APOD card.
"I also encourage other local businesses to look after our veterans and to recognise their service and sacrifice."
Canning MP Andrew Hastie said it was a positive initiative that could save veterans thousands of dollars.
"It aims to bring civil society and veterans closer together," he said.
"There has been a lot of talk about veteran mental health - a lot of people want to show their thanks and gratitude, so it is great to see businesses like Harcourts Mandurah leading on this initiative.
"We need to look after veterans, but not just on Anzac Day and Remembrance Day."
About 500 business are on board nationally.
Businesses can sign up to support the Covenant at apod.com.au/about/advertise while community organisations can register with DVA through recognition.dva.gov.au.
Gareth McKnight
Gareth McKnight is Mandurah Mail's editor.
Gareth McKnight is Mandurah Mail's editor.
