Our History

The History and Policy Context for IVA

The Institute of Veterans' Advocacy (IVA) was established in response to a recognised need to strengthen the quality, consistency and long-term sustainability of veterans' advocacy services across Australia.

IVA's establishment follows extensive consultation led by the Department of Veterans' Affairs on the future of the advocacy sector and reflects a shared commitment by government and the veteran community to support a more professional, capable and nationally consistent advocacy workforce.

The creation of IVA also aligns with the Australian Government's response to Recommendation 99 of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which recognised the importance of improving the capability, standards and coordination of veterans' advocacy services.

As Australia's peak professional body for veterans' advocates, IVA supports this national reform agenda by promoting high professional standards, building advocate capability, fostering public confidence, and working collaboratively with government and the broader veteran support sector to improve outcomes for veterans and their families.