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The Defence Force Welfare Association is an independent voice for Australian Defence Force members, veterans, and their families.

We advocate to government on matters affecting the welfare of this group of Australians, including:

  • ADF Pay and Conditions of Service
  • Rehabilitation of Injured Veterans
  • Compensation for Service Injuries
  • Retirement and Superannuation
  • Improving Service Delivery
  • Veteran Recognition

You can read more about our major policy objectives, here.

The Defence Force Welfare Association is funded by branch membership fees and donations.

Our Current Focus

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    Past Newsletter Editions

    Latest Updates

    Government Releases Exposure Draft of New Veterans’ Legislation

    The Government is seeking comments on the draft Veterans’ Entitlements, Treatment and Support (Simplification and Harmonisation) Bill 2024 that, if passed by Parliament, would implement a new model of veterans’ compensation. The Bill seeks to implement the single Act model proposed in the Veterans’ Legislation Reform Consultation Pathway, shaped by the feedback provided by the veteran community in 2023. The core elements of the model are: Single act – an improved Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act…

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    Gordon Legal Commence Investigation – Possible Class Action

    On 13 February 2024, Gordon Legal which had been following the case for some time issued a Media Release indicating a potential Class Action against DVA and invited DVA cardholder to register interest in participating. Please note, DFWA does not provide legal advice and is not recommending any veteran participate in any investigation or class action. Individuals should consider their options and seek independent legal advice.
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    Statement from the Secretary of DVA on the Veterans’ MATES Program

    On 12 February 2024, Alison Frame, Secretary of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, released the following statement: The Department is aware that the withdrawal of Defence and Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Human Research Ethics Committee approval on Monday, 5 February 2024 has increased concerns in the veteran community regarding the Veterans’ MATES Program (MATES), particularly in relation to the sharing of data. MATES has sought to support veterans and their families to manage their…

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    Read more updates