Advocacy

The NWOA is not a welfare organisation but is deeply concerned for the welfare of its members. Support is always available for members and their families provided the Committee is aware of the need for such support. Friends and family of members who need a helping hand are requested to contact a member of the committee.

As a service to the NWOA the Information Section of the RSL Welfare & Benevolent Institution, under the executive leadership of John Hodges, offers a free Advocacy service for appeals to the Veterans’ Review Board that is staffed by TIP* trained Advocates. The Service is available to all veterans, former and current members of the Australian Defence Force and their dependants. You do not have to be an RSL member to access the service.

The service provided includes:

  • Advice and assistance with applications for review under the VEA and applications for reconsideration under the SRCA
  • Preparation and submit applications for review to the Repatriation Commission under Section 31 of the VEA
  • Preparation and submit applications for reconsideration under the SRCA
  • Preparation and present cases for review to the Veterans’ Review Board
  • Preparation of cases for review to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and access to Legal Aid* The Training and Information Programme (TIP) is a joint venture of ex-service organisations and Veterans’ Affairs providing training for members of the ex-service community as Pensions Officers, Welfare Officers and Advocates.

    • For more information read John Hodges’ column in ‘Engage!’ or contact him at the RSL 02 9264 8188. Also check out the RSL web page.(http://www.rslnsw.com.au/)

    Pensions

    Volunteer Pension Officers

    Most RSL sub-Branches offer advice and preparation of claims under the VEA and SCRA by volunteer Pensions Officers. The RSL does not charge for this service and you do not have to be an RSL member.

    The Pension Officers are trained under the Training and Information Program (TIP). The Training and Information Program (TIP) is a joint venture of ex-service organisations and Veterans’ Affairs providing training for members of the ex-service community as Pensions Officers, Welfare Officers and Advocates.

    The Information Section also has Pension Officers located at the NSW State Office of the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. They are available Monday to Friday 10.00am to 3.00pm and their address is:
    Level 1
    DVA Building
    280 Elizabeth Street
    Surry Hills NSW 2010
    Telephone: 9213 7479

    Serving members of the Australian Defence Force based in the Sydney area can obtain representation from ANZAC House. A RSL Pension/Welfare Officer is also available at Concord Hospital.