New Members Appointed To Victorian Veterans Council

The Allan Labor Government has appointed two new members of the Victorian Veterans Council who have a strong track record in representing veterans and their families. 

Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman today announced the appointment of Emily O’Dwyer and Peter Swandale as new members of the council.

Emily O’Dwyer has more than six years’ experience at Melbourne Legacy, providing support to families of veterans who have lost their life or had health impacts during service to their country.

Ms O’Dwyer also has extensive experience in the social work, youth, disability and aged care sectors including through roles at McAuley Community Services for Women and Hope Street Youth and Family Services.

Peter Swandale has served more than four decades with the Australian Regular Army and Reserves, gaining operational experience while serving in Bougainville, East Timor and Iraq.

Mr Swandale joined the State Executive team at RSL Victoria earlier this year, bringing with him a wealth of leadership knowledge and a deep understanding of the veteran sector.

Prior to that, Mr Swandale served as Chair of the Bendigo Military Museum and President of Bendigo District RSL where he made it his mission to modernise the sub-branch and culture to attract and support younger veterans. 

The Victorian Veterans Council is an independent statutory body that provides advice to the Government about issues impacting the veteran community. 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman

“I congratulate Emily O’Dwyer and Peter Swandale on their appointments to the Victorian Veterans Council.”

“Their experience working across the defence and veteran sectors will ensure the Victorian Veterans Council continues to have an impact through its important work advocating for our veterans.”

“I thank outgoing members Ken Tsirigotis and Simon Thorn, who have served on the Council for more than three years and one year respectively, to support our veterans and educate Victorians about their service and sacrifice.”