Beyond transition: how Veteran Support Officers are assisting the veteran community

Whether you are serving, transitioning, or have separated from the ADF, Veteran Support Officers (VSOs) are strengthening support across the veteran community through faceto-face appointments, presentations, and partnerships with Defence and ex-service organisation (ESO) networks. 

DVA is continuing its efforts to support current and former serving members through its VSOs. 

VSOs are DVA staff members embedded on-base who provide personalised support and information to veterans and their families. While often associated with veterans preparing to leave the military for civilian life, the role of a VSO extends much further – offering guidance and education to serving members. 

VSOs also provide support to ex-serving veterans and their families through a limited number of Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs. 

In addition to one-on-one appointments, VSOs provide information sessions, unit briefings and community presentations to increase awareness of DVA services and entitlements. Topics typically include how to access MyService, the claims process, and how to access DVA supports and benefits. These sessions aim to strengthen understanding and engagement across all stages of military life. VSOs work closely with command teams, ESOs, and local networks to ensure services are responsive to emerging needs and remain accessible to veterans from all walks of life. 

Veterans are encouraged to bring along family members or support persons to appointments, recognising the important role they play both during service and in post-service life. 

The VSO program reflects a broader strategy to make DVA support services more visible, more approachable, and better tailored to individual needs. By fostering early and informed engagement, VSOs aim to reduce complexity and improve long-term outcomes for veterans and their families. 

For more information or to contact your local Veteran Support Officer visit the Veteran Support Office page.