As the long awaited debate on Australia's involvement in the Afghanistan invasion opened in federal parliament, a group of war veterans made their way to Capital Hill to have their voices heard.

The national association of veterans and former military personnel, known as Stand Fast, is demanding an end to the nine-year Afghan War, urging politicians to recognise the hidden casualties and long term cost of the war.

Scott was the only federal politician to meet with the veterans, acknowledging the courage it took to speak out.

"Most of the MPs who will speak on this debate from the safety of Canberra probably couldn't point to Oruzgan on a map. When former service personnel speak out, we'd do well to listen."

"Parliament must decide when Australian troops deploy into combat zones - this should never again be the decision of the Prime Minister alone."

More information:

Stand Fast a group of veterans and former military personnel who oppose the current wars of occupation in Iraq and Afghanistan

Greens report on Parliamentary Approvals for ADF deployments: the ‘War Powers' bill http://www.aph.gov.au/senate/committee/fadt_ctte/dapaosb08/report/d01.htm

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