Issues relating to advocacy services for veterans accessing compensation and income support

Committee: Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee
Date referred: 26 August 2025
Submissions close: 5 September 2025
Reporting date: 30 October 2025

The committee’s inquiry into advocacy services relating to veteran compensation and income support lapsed at the end of the 47th Parliament. On 26 August 2025, the Senate re-referred the inquiry for further examination and report.

All correspondence and evidence previously received in relation to this inquiry have been made available to the new committee. This means that submissions already provided do not need to be re-submitted. The committee intends to refer to the evidence received during the 47th Parliament.

Terms of Reference

The representation of and advice provided by ex-service organisations, commercial entities, not-for-profits and individuals to veterans and families in relation to accessing compensation and income support from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, with particular reference to:

  1. the appropriateness of commercial entities, within and outside Australia, providing advocacy services, including the charging of fees or commissions on statutory entitlement payments;
  2. representation of veterans at the Veterans’ Review Board, including by legal practitioners;
  3. regulation, training and professional discipline arrangements for advocates;
  4. the consideration of previous reviews undertaken into the advocacy model, including recommendations made and subsequent implementation or lack thereof; and,
  5. any related matters.

Committee Secretariat contact:

Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee
Department of the Senate
PO Box 6100
Parliament House
Canberra ACT 2600

Phone: +61 2 6277 3535
fadt.sen@aph.gov.au

Inquiry Status

Accepting Submissions

How to make a submission

The committee invites individuals and organisations to send in their opinions and proposals in writing (submissions)

Accessibility

We are committed to ensuring that everyone who wishes to can participate in the Committee’s inquiry. If you have accessibility requirements, please contact the Committee Secretariat.

Further information regarding accessibility can be found at www.aph.gov.au/Help/Accessibility