Secretary's letter

Neil Johnston - SecretaryBuilding for the Future

The 2002-03 Corporate Plan supports the Government's commitment to the veteran and defence force communities, including the undertaking of a Review of Veterans' Entitlements, the introduction of legislation for the new Military, Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Scheme, and the continuation of effective commemorative programs.

The community we serve is changing. Veterans of the World War II era are ageing while those of the Vietnam era are in, or approaching, their retirement years. There are also now many younger veterans who have seen more recent service including East Timor and Afghanistan. Recent conflicts and our commemorative activities have also heightened public awareness of veteran and defence issues. We must respond effectively in our changing environment.

In achieving our mission and building on our standing in the veteran community, we must maintain the quality of our services and strengthen our partnership with providers and other stakeholders. Particular priorities for 2002-03 include:

  • developing, integrating and expanding Defence/DVA Links within new legislative parameters;
  • implementing the reforms identified in the Corporate Services Review, progressing use of our electronic file management system and exploring records management opportunities in partnership with Defence and National Archives;
  • improving our reputation for excellence in service delivery including innovation in health and rehabilitation services; and
  • harnessing efficiencies by investing in technology, e-business and other means of enhancing the services we provide to the veteran and defence force communities.

Critical to this endeavour are the people of DVA. Our strategies depend on having people with the right skills. As we build for the future we look forward to implementing a comprehensive training program for our staff to meet the needs of our business and the standards set out in our Service Charter.

Neil Johnston
SECRETARY