Advocacy Training and Development Program
The Australian Defence Veterans’ Covenant encourages Australians to recognise and acknowledge the unique nature of military service and to support veterans and their families. The Oath, Veteran Card and Lapel Pin underpin the Covenant and provide further recognition and easier identification of veterans.
The Australian Veterans’ Recognition Bill 2019 supports the Covenant and passed Parliament and received Assent on 30 October 2019. Veterans who have already applied for the Covenant will soon receive their Lapel Pin and Oath in the mail.
The Covenant will provide better outcomes for veterans and their families through integrated and increased community support, employment and healthy living initiatives. Veteran Cards will provide continued access to the existing programs and support provided by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and the community.
How to apply
Eligible veterans and reservists can apply online using the MyService portal at dva.gov.au/myservice.
Click the ‘Veteran Covenant’ tile to apply.
Businesses, organisations and community groups who want to support the Covenant
Businesses, organisations, local community groups and the broader Australian public are able to register their commitment to the Covenant and to supporting veterans and their families at recognition.dva.gov.au.
If veterans need support now
Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24-hour free and confidential counselling and support for current and ex-serving ADF members and their families.
To get support or to find out more, veterans can call 1800 011 046 or visit OpenArms.gov.au.
More information about the Covenant
DVA have provided a set of FAQs and Covenant application process to help you help veterans.
Visit recognition.dva.gov.au or call 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) for more information.