Four reasons to use an RSL Queensland Compensation Advocate

Making a DVA claim for a condition or injury received during service can sometimes be confusing and time-consuming, but the advice and support of a qualified advocate can take the guesswork out of it.

There are four main benefits of working with an advocate.

1. A guiding hand 

RSL’s team of Compensation Advocates liaises with DVA daily on behalf of clients. They will ensure all the documentation and evidence needed to demonstrate a claim is in place and provide support through the entire process. Claims can take time to be assessed and processed by DVA, but advocates will keep clients informed at every stage.

Advocates also take the time needed to ensure veterans fully understand what is happening and why, and provide reassurance if their claim is delayed.

2. Specialist knowledge 

RSL Queensland Compensation Advocates are all qualified, having trained in the Legislative Acts governing veteran compensation and the claims process. They can also draw on a bank of knowledge and expertise from colleagues across the organisation, some of whom have decades of experience in compensation and advocacy.

Many advocates are ex-Defence members or part of the veteran community. This shared experience provides a unique understanding of what it means to have served and to have transitioned into civilian life, enabling them to empathise with clients in a meaningful way.

3. A holistic approach 

While RSL Queensland’s Compensation Advocates work to ensure veterans receive any compensation they may be entitled to, they can also connect veterans with other support programs and services.

The focus is on overall wellbeing. Improving quality of life is often best achieved through a combination of factors – compensation certainly, but also rehabilitation services, social connection and support in finding civilian employment.

RSL Queensland advocates understand the full range of services and programs available to veterans – both from DVA and Mates4Mates. They work with veterans to develop a wellness plan that incorporates all the elements needed for the best possible outcome.

Sometimes, if veterans are too focused on compensation above all else, they may begin defining themselves according to their level of disability. Advocates encourage veterans to focus on being well again.

4. DVA Advocates are on your side

Ultimately, Advocates are there solely to help veterans. Advocacy services are provided completely free of charge, and veterans do not need to be RSL members to access assistance.

Veterans are encouraged to have a chat with RSL Queensland’s Veteran Services team to explore their options. Having an Advocate by your side can make the claims process simpler and less stressful.

RSL Queensland advocates can work with veterans face-to-face, via telephone or online, including lodging claims online.