RSL Welcomes Opening of Increased Government Funding for Veteran Advocacy Services
MEDIA RELEASE
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) has welcomed the opening of significantly increased Government funding for ex-service organisations (ESOs) to provide free advocacy services for veterans lodging compensation claims with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
The RSL says the provision of up to $58.6 million over three years for ESOs through the Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) Grants Program will provide greater access for veterans to secure free advocacy services and ultimately, better outcomes.
RSL Australia National President Peter Tinley AM said the improved funding was in line with an important recommendation of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which called on the Government to improve veterans’ advocacy by funding professional, paid advocates.
“Claims advocacy is one of the most important services the RSL provides to veterans. This is largely provided by RSL volunteer advocates funded through State Branches and Sub Branches,” Peter Tinley said.
“While the number of volunteers is unfortunately dwindling, the RSL is progressively moving towards a paid advocate model at considerable cost, but the services will continue to be provided to veterans for free.
“The RSL has consistently called on the Government to provide more funding to support paid advocates delivering free services through the RSL and other ESOs so veterans don’t have to pay for advocacy, as well as improving training for advocates, and the regulating of advocacy services.
“Ultimately, we want a claims advocacy system that is easy enough for the majority of veterans to navigate without an advocate. High quality, well-trained advocates could then focus on the more complex claims.
“Today’s opening of increased grant funding from Veterans’ Affairs Minister Keogh is a positive step forward and should provide greater stability and future funding certainty for ESOs who employ professional advocates,” Peter Tinley said.