The Liberal government is set to overhaul veterans' benefits at a cost of $1 billion over five years, Sun Media has learned. Prime Minister Paul Martin will unveil a new "Veterans Charter" through legislation in the leadup to the 60th anniversary of VE-Day celebrations in Europe next month.

According to a four-page briefing document intended for MPs and senators, veterans affairs will partner with the defence department to provide all retiring regular force members and reservists with help finding jobs as civilians.

JOB-SEARCH TRAINING

"We will help with job-search training and job-finding assistance to give CF veterans the best chance for a quality job when they release from the military," the document says.

Last May the federal government announced its plans to overhaul legislation that lays out the services provided to Canada's vets and launched public consultations.

The overhaul is the first since the legislation was created after World War II. It's meant to address the needs of younger vets, who are often under the age of 40.

The briefing note outlines changes to improve health benefits, case management and rehabilitation services, as well as a move to boost disability awards and other lump-sum payments. It won't take away from existing programs, such as disability pensions.

Veterans affairs will begin offering benefits comparable to those offered to other federal government employees -- arguably the most extensive in the country.

More money will be put into health care programs provided to soldiers who suffer from a physical injury or mental illness because of their service.

Vets facing pain and suffering because of a service-related disability will be entitled to a new compensation package.