Advocates can assist with DVA business

If you need help accessing DVA services and lodging claims, an advocate may be available to help you. Advocates work for ex-service organisations (ESO) and are trained to help you access services and payments. Often they’re members of the veteran community, such as veterans or partners of veterans. They are not Defence or DVA staff members.

What can an advocate help me with?

We continue to make improvements to MyService but lodging claims can sometimes be challenging. If you need assistance, an advocate may be a good option for you.

Advocates can also help you access a range of information and referrals for services relating to health, rehabilitation, housing, transport and many other things. A more comprehensive list of what advocates can help you with is available on the Finding an Advocate page of DVA’s website.

Is there a cost?

There is no cost to use an ESO advocate service. ESOs may receive some financial support for their advocacy services from DVA. 

Who can access the help of an advocate?

All veterans and their families are eligible to access the assistance of an advocate.

If you are still serving in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), a great support channel is through the on-base Veteran Support Officers (VSOs). VSOs are DVA staff members who provide personalised guidance on accessing DVA support and benefits, including helping prepare you for separation from the ADF and the transition to civilian life.

Where can I find an advocate?

If you’d like to engage the help of an advocate, you can contact an ESO to find out more about what an advocate can do for you. The Advocate Register on DVA’s website is where you can search for an ESO and find an advocate in your local area.

Interested in becoming an advocate?

If you are interested in becoming an advocate, please contact an ESO in your area. You can also find information about the training offered under the Advocacy Training and Development Program (ATDP) at www.atdp.org.au.