The Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency Chief Executive delivered a statement on behalf of DVA at the 24 Months On Conference in Canberra on 7 October 2026. The conference was hosted by Charles Sturt University and the Pro Patria Centre.
When delivering his statement Brendan said, "Before I begin, I will read a short statement from DVA in response to the issues raised in this week's Four Corners program. This aligns with the public statement on the DVA website.
The program highlighted unethical practices of commercial advocacy providers and health service providers who are exploiting veterans for financial gains.
The alleged conduct highlighted in the program is deeply concerning and these behaviours are unacceptable.
They misuse public funding, undermine confidence in the system and, most importantly, have the potential to cause real harm to veterans and families of veterans.
DVA has been raising concerns about these issues for some time and has significantly strengthened its integrity, compliance and investigative capabilities in response.
The Department is taking action where evidence supports it and will continue to do so.
DVA’s position on advocacy is clear.
Since 1 July 2026 it has never been easier for veterans to lodge a claim. Recent reforms have simplified the claims process and strengthened DVA's ability to support veterans directly, reducing the need for veterans to rely on third parties to access their entitlements.
Veterans do not need to pay for assistance in accessing DVA entitlements and supports. Free-to-the-veteran advocacy services are available through ex-service organisations across Australia, supported by Australian Government funding.
Importantly, DVA has a legal obligation to take a beneficial approach when assessing claims, ensuring the system is designed to support veterans to access the entitlements they are eligible for.
The Australian Government has also increased funding through the Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) program to help expand the availability of free advocacy and welfare support services delivered by ex-service organisations.
DVA does not support business models that rely on commissions or financial incentives linked to veteran claims outcomes.
Veterans should be able to access trusted, independent advice that is focused on their wellbeing, not someone else's financial return.
Protecting veterans is a shared responsibility.
DVA is asking everyone who operates within the veteran support system to uphold the highest professional and ethical standards, report misconduct when they see it, and work with us to ensure veterans can have confidence that the support they receive is safe, free, ethical and always in their best interests.
Veterans should never be viewed as a business opportunity. They should be treated with dignity, respect and integrity".
Information from our community, including DVA staff, veterans and families of veterans, and providers is important in helping us to detect wrongdoing. Raising concerns early helps us protect veterans and strengthen the system that supports them.
If you suspect wrongdoing or have concerns about a provider you are engaged with, please provide information and supporting evidence to us via:
- Webform: Report an integrity concern
- Email: integrity@dva.gov.au
- Phone: 1800 838 372
