Election Test: Will Parties Prioritise Quality, Fee-Free Advocacy for Veterans?
MEDIA RELEASE
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) is asking all political parties to commit to improving access to quality, fee-free advocates to assist veterans and their families navigate the complex processes involved in accessing compensation and wellbeing support from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).
RSL Australia National President Greg Melick said this requires an increase in the number of fee-free veteran claims and wellbeing advocates to meet the growing shortage and funding for ex-service organisation (ESO) paid advocates.
The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide recommended that DVA funds ESO paid advocates and as one of its five key election asks, the RSL is urging full support and implementation of this critical initiative.
"RSL Australia is the largest ex-service organisation providing fee-free advocacy services. Support with DVA claims is one of the most highly accessed services the RSL offers, and our national advocacy system is under pressure,” Greg Melick said.
“We need improved training for advocates, regulations to ensure a consistent, ethical and fair service for veterans, and more funding for ESOs to fund salaries for new advocates.
“The RSL is calling on the incoming Government to ensure that every veteran can access fee-free advocacy services, which are vital for securing the support they need from the DVA in promoting their health and wellbeing.
“There are concerns regarding fee-for-service advocates, and while veterans should have the freedom to choose, percentage-based fees may undermine advocates' focus on veterans' wellbeing, recovery, and rehabilitation.”
Greg Melick said the RSL welcomes the Government’s commitment to establish the Institute of Veterans’ Advocates but urged investment in comprehensive and contemporary training programs to ensure advocates are well-equipped to support the evolving needs of veterans.
“To ensure the new Institute is effective, the Government must provide appropriate funding and transparency so that it can support advocates in the new legislative environment from July 2026.
“As well, the recently passed VETS Bill will mean that there are changes in the way claims are processed, and there will be work involved to ensure a smooth transition for advocates,” he said.
2025 Federal Election Asks
Investing in our veterans - RSL’s Five Priority requests to candidates
As Australians prepare to go to the polls on 3 May 2025, the RSL is calling on all candidates and parties to demonstrate a shared commitment to the health and wellbeing of our veterans.
This document has been sent to political parties asking them to commit their support to these five key priority areas that will make a difference in the lives of our current and former serving ADF personnel and their families.
