RSL’s new advocates helping veterans get compensation

A NEW team of Compensation Advocates is hard at work at the Torquay RSL, helping veterans get the support they need.

The four advocates are operating out of the RSL’s clubrooms at the rear of the Torquay Bowls Club to assist with any Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) matters.

“The addition of three Compensation Advocates and one Advocate in Training to Torquay RSL’s band of Wellbeing Advocates gives veterans and families in our region one of the strongest support groups available,” Torquay RSL President Bob Tyler said.

“Two of the Compensation Advocates have more than 45 years of experience between them and have strong networks into DVA.

“John Clarke is a Compensation Advocate Level 3, and Anthony Woolley is a TIP trained Compensation Advocate Level 3 and ATDP recognised Compensation Advocate Level 2.

“Both men have an excellent success rate at the Veterans Review Board when the need to appeal DVA decisions has arisen.”

He said the addition of such strong Compensation Advocacy support working under Torquay’s RSL’s umbrella ensures all matters relating to DVA support can now be covered at a one-stop shop.

“Until the Compensation Advocates have a phone of their own, which will happen very soon, please ring the RSL number 0409 2978 441 to make an appointment. One of the Compensation Advocates will ring back within 72 hours.

Mr Clarke said although appointments were usually necessary, all advocates were happy at the moment to initiate action for veterans who walked in and need to begin dialogue with DVA or have accepted conditions reviewed.

“At Torquay, we have private spaces accessible for interviews, and we can accommodate veterans, and partners or carers, wishing to support the veterans with their cases,” Mr Clarke said.

The advocacy office at the RSL is staffed usually on Mondays and appointments ensure specific times can be allocated to veterans’ interviews.

The Wellbeing Advocates are available within reasonable hours to advise and assist veterans, war widows and their families in all matters related to subjects such as aged care, care in the home, respite care, and welfare matters including home visits for a chat.

Telephone interviews with advocates are available, as well as face to face interviews.

“For wellbeing assistance or support, please ring the RSL on 0409 297 441 and, if necessary, please leave a message. That phone is monitored every day. Our email, [email protected], is checked every day,” Mr Tyler said.

“Torquay RSL is developing a growing reputation for its care of young and older veterans, war widows and families.

“We’re all about veterans, and their families.

“With the addition of such experienced Compensation Advocates to our Advocacy team, we are well up with larger and better-funded sub-branches in Victoria.”