A DVA-accredited advocate is someone who has been trained and authorised to help veterans with their DVA compensation claims. Advocates can help you understand the claims process, gather evidence, fill out forms, and represent you at reviews. In most cases, this help is completely free.
Advocates are accredited by DVA through ex-service organisations (ESOs). They are not DVA employees — they work independently on your behalf.
What an advocate can do for you:
An advocate can explain which claim types may be relevant to your situation, help you understand what evidence DVA generally considers important, assist you with completing claim forms correctly, review your claim before lodgement to check for common issues, represent you at the Veterans' Review Board (VRB) if you need to challenge a decision, and help you navigate the VETS Act changes from 1 July 2026.
Advocates have experience with the DVA system and understand how claims are assessed. They can help avoid common mistakes that lead to delays or unsuccessful claims.
How to find an advocate:
Ex-service organisations that provide advocate services include RSL Australia (Returned and Services League), Legacy, Vietnam Veterans' Association, Defence Force Welfare Association, and other state and territory ESOs.
You can contact these organisations directly and ask to speak with a claims advocate. Many ESOs have advocates available in capital cities and larger regional centres. Some can assist remotely by phone or video.
DVA also maintains information about finding advocates on their website. You can call DVA on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) and ask to be connected with an accredited advocate service.
You do not need to be a member of an ESO to use their advocate services. The service is generally free regardless of membership status.
When to use an advocate:
You can use an advocate at any stage — from your very first claim through to reviews and appeals. If your claim is complex (multiple conditions, unclear service connection, or previous decisions you want reviewed), an advocate can be particularly helpful.
If your claim has been refused and you are considering a review through the VRB or an appeal to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), having an advocate represent you is strongly recommended. They understand the review process and can help present your case effectively.
This is a guide only. Always verify with DVA directly or with a qualified advocate before lodging a claim.