A new approach to Veteran Advocacy: thinking outside the box
It’s been a while since my last post, but I’m back to dive into a topic that’s been at the forefront of discussions surrounding our veterans and their wellbeing. With the recent conclusion of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, and the final report now tabled, the spotlight is firmly on the recommendations and the next steps we must take. There’s a renewed sense of energy in the air, particularly within the veteran support sector. The atmosphere is buzzing with consultations, dialogues, and a commitment to creating meaningful change. This is a pivotal moment, and I felt compelled to wade into the fray myself, contributing a submission to the DVA/ESORT consultation regarding the proposed Australian Institute of Veterans' Advocates.
The Importance of Advocacy
Veterans have dedicated their lives to serving our country, and upon returning to civilian life, many face unique challenges that require specialised support. Establishing an Australian Institute of Veterans' Advocates will be a promising step toward enhancing the advocacy landscape for veterans. If done well it will provide a structured framework that ensures veterans receive the guidance and support they need when navigating the complexities of their rights and entitlements. In my submission, I emphasised the necessity of equipping advocates with the tools and knowledge to effectively represent veterans. This includes comprehensive training programs, resources that stay updated with the latest legislative changes, and a strong network of support among advocates themselves. Critically, I propose that an institute should encompass advocacy in a much wider context.
Recommendations from the Royal Commission
The Royal Commission’s final report has laid bare the numerous issues our veterans face, but it has also illuminated paths toward solutions. Among the key recommendations are calls for improved mental health services, better access to resources, and a holistic approach to care that encompasses physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. These recommendations must be at the forefront of our discussions as we consider the establishment of the Australian Institute of Veterans' Advocates. We cannot afford to let this momentum dissipate; we must ensure that the voices of veterans are not only heard but actively shape the future of support services available to them.
The Energy of Change
What’s particularly encouraging is the palpable energy within the veteran support community. There’s a collective push for innovation and improvement, with many organisations actively engaging in consultations to share insights and experiences. This positive energy is vital, as it fosters collaboration and ensures that diverse perspectives are included in the decision-making process. It’s clear that we are on the cusp of significant change, and by coming together, we can create a robust support system that truly serves our veterans and their families now and into the future.
Moving Forward
As we look ahead, it’s crucial to maintain this momentum. The recommendations from the Royal Commission must be translated into actionable steps that lead to real change. The proposed Australian Institute of Veterans' Advocates represents a crucial piece of this puzzle, and I am hopeful that my submission, along with many others, will help guide its development.
Why publish my submission here, you might ask?
The answer is simple: the consultation process surrounding the establishment of the Australian Institute of Veterans' Advocates is, quite frankly, opaque. While submissions can be made, the lack of confirmation or follow-up communication leaves much to be desired. Aside from a brief notification on the webpage indicating that my submission has been submitted, there is no email confirmation to assure me that it has been received and is under consideration. Even more concerning is the absence of public access to submissions. As it stands, no submissions are made available for public view, which raises significant questions about transparency and accountability. In a sector where trust is paramount—especially given the sensitive issues surrounding veteran support—these opaque processes do little to inspire confidence. We have an incredible opportunity to improve and innovate, yet without transparency, we risk alienating those we aim to serve. By posting my submission here, I hope to shed light on the current situation and contribute to a culture of openness. You can download the submission here. Please feel free to share it in it’s entirety with your networks.
Anyone who has worked with me before knows that I’m not precious about my ideas; I believe in collaboration and constructive dialogue. I welcome comments, critiques, and discussions about my submission and the broader conversation surrounding veteran advocacy. You can contact me here: jacqui@vandevelde.com.au
