A new way to search the DVA Website
Veterans, families and providers have asked for better, easier ways to find information on our DVA website so we’re testing a new AI-enabled search tool designed to make your experience simpler and more efficient.
The current search only shows a list of pages that match the keywords you search for.
With the new search tool you can look for keywords or ask questions – and both ways of searching will provide comprehensive answers.
The AI-enabled search will automatically bring key points together in a clear summary – saving you time from having to click through multiple pages and piece together information yourself.
The AI-enabled search will look across all public information available on all official DVA websites including Open Arms, the Anzac Portal and the Minister for Veterans' Affairs website. It cannot access your personal details or private records with DVA.
The AI-enabled search tool is designed to help you locate the most relevant information quickly. It complements, rather than replaces, personalised guidance. While the AI-enabled search tool does its best to give clear and accurate answers, it may occasionally miss certain details or context, or access information that is not fully up to date. For the most complete and accurate information, it’s always a good idea to check out the full search results or you can contact us directly if unsure.
For any advice specific to your own personal circumstances, please always contact DVA directly.
The AI-enabled search tool is designed to be simple, safe, and helpful – making the DVA website better for everyone. We welcome your feedback as we trial this new feature and continue to improve it.
Frequently Asked Questions: DVA's new AI-enabled search
About the AI-enabled search
We are testing a new AI-enabled search tool to help you find what you’re looking for. Using modern technology, this search tool is smarter and more helpful.
The AI-enabled search tool understands natural language better, so you can type questions as you would typically ask them. For example, instead of typing "pension eligibility criteria," you can ask "Am I eligible for a service pension?" and get relevant results either way. The search tool will also look across other DVA websites and compile information into a simple summary, with a list of links for more information.
No. The AI-enabled search tool cannot and will not access any personal information, process claims, or make decisions about your entitlements. The tool only searches through publicly available information already on DVA websites. All personal information remains secure and protected.
No. Anyone visiting the DVA website can use the AI-enabled search tool (just like previous search was also available). No account or login is needed.
Yes. We expect the new AI-enabled search tool will make finding information easy, but our staff are always here to support you through the usual channels. You can still call us, visit an office, or contact your support officer. This tool is an addition to our services, not a replacement of personal support.
No. The AI-enabled search tool only provides access to general information that is publicly available on DVA websites. For information about your specific case or claim, you'll need to log into MyService or contact DVA directly through the usual channels.
Accessibility
Yes. The AI-enabled search tool is designed to work well on any device, including your mobile phone, tablet, and desktop computer. The search tool will adapt to your screen size to provide an easy experience no matter how you are visiting the DVA website.
The AI-enabled search tool aims to provide accurate information; however, you should always verify important details through official DVA channels, especially for critical matters regarding benefits, claims, or healthcare. If you notice incorrect information, please contact DVA to let us know so we can address it.
The AI-enabled search tool will be rolled out in stages. We'll launch a pilot (test) version first to gather feedback. Announcements will be made on the DVA website and our social media channels as new features become available.
Privacy and data protection
The AI-enabled search tool doesn't store your personal search history or information in a way that identifies you. Like most modern websites, it may collect general usage data for example to determine the most commonly searched topics to help improve the search experience for everyone. This is never linked to your personal identity or DVA records.
The AI-enabled search tool has been designed with privacy and security as top priorities. The tool only uses publicly available information that's already on DVA websites. The tool has no access to personal data, claims systems, or veteran records. We've implemented strict controls to ensure it remains a search tool for public information only.
No personal or identifying search data is used to train AI systems. Anonymous usage statistics may be collected to improve the search functionality (to ensure accuracy of results) but this information cannot be linked back to individuals. We do not share search data with third parties, and all usage analysis is conducted in accordance with Australian privacy laws.
DVA takes cybersecurity extremely seriously. The search system will undergo security testing and follows the Australian Government's strict security protocols. The tool operates separately from systems containing personal veteran information, creating an additional layer of protection. We also conduct regular security audits and updates to protect against emerging threats. If you ever notice anything suspicious, please contact DVA to report it immediately.
The new AI-enhanced search tool only provides information that has been published on official DVA websites, which are regularly reviewed for accuracy. The system is designed to prioritise the most current information available. However, policies and programs occasionally change, so we always recommend checking critical information through official DVA service channels, particularly for time-sensitive matters regarding benefits or services.
No. The AI-eenabled search tool only searches and uses publicly available information on DVA websites. It has no access to personal records, claims data, or any sensitive information about individual veterans.