Search begins for next Veteran Family Advocate Commissioner

Applications are now open for the Veteran Family Advocate Commissioner—a full-time statutory leadership role dedicated to representing veteran families at the highest levels of government.  

At the heart of the role is the responsibility to give a voice to veterans’ families and the important role they play in veteran and family health and wellbeing.  

The Commissioner provides strategic policy advice, advocates for veteran family wellbeing, and fosters productive relationships across government and the veteran community. The role also includes being a member of the Repatriation Commission and the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission.

The Veteran Family Advocate Commissioner role is vital to ensuring the unique perspectives of veteran families help shape policy and service delivery to improve outcomes.

"My goal is to ensure that no family stands alone – whether they are adjusting to life after service or grieving the loss of a loved one.” —Gwen Cherne, inaugural Veteran Family Advocate Commissioner

Applications are encouraged from passionate advocates with strong leadership, analytical, and stakeholder engagement skills—ideally with lived experience of veteran families.

The successful applicant will be appointed by the Governor-General for a term of up to five years.  

Applications are open until 11:30 pm AEST on 27 April 2025.

For more information and to apply, visit the Department of Veterans’ Affairs candidate portal.