A veteran support system you can trust: Why provider integrity matters
DVA proudly supports the wellbeing of veterans and families of veterans. Delivering on this purpose depends on strong partnerships and a shared commitment to integrity across the veteran support system.
The Australian Government is investing $151 million over 4 years to strengthen DVA’s provider integrity capability to detect, prevent and respond to non-compliance and fraud across veteran support services, including:
- suspected misuse of DVA funds or services
- providing false or misleading information
- providing false documents
- submitting claims for services not received or not provided.
Integrity work matters because provider non-compliance and fraud are not just administrative problems. They can delay support, reduce available resources and undermine confidence in programs designed to improve veteran wellbeing. Put simply, when the system is misused, veterans and families of veterans can miss out.
DVA works closely with everyone in the veteran support system to promote ethical practice and ensure our programs deliver effective, veteran-centred outcomes. We recognise not all compliance issues reflect intentional wrong-doing and we are committed to helping providers meet their obligations through prevention and education.
Most providers act professionally and deliver excellent care, and we value their contribution. That is why we are focused on identifying and addressing conduct by providers that undermines the support system and exploits veterans and families of veterans.
Our enforcement activities do not affect a veteran’s access to benefits or support.
To date, DVA’s work to protect the integrity of our programs and support veteran health and wellbeing has prevented more than $55 million in potential losses to fraud and non-compliance. We expect that number to grow to over $685 million over the next 4 years.
As part of our shared approach to integrity, DVA recently released our Provider Integrity Principles and Expectations, setting clear standards for behaviour across the veteran support system. The principles apply broadly to all organisations and individuals who deliver, facilitate or manage care and services for veterans and families of veterans. At their core, they represent the system’s commitment to acting honestly, ethically and in good faith – even when it is difficult or unseen.
The aim of DVA’s provider integrity work is not punishment but a stronger system: one that protects those we serve and ensures support reaches those who need it most.
Report an integrity concern
Veterans, families and providers are not on the sidelines of integrity work – they are partners in it. Your information, experience and willingness to speak up can help DVA detect problems early and strengthen the system that supports veterans.
If you suspect wrongdoing, please report it to us via:
- Webform: www.dva.gov.au/report-an-integrity-concern
- Email: integrity@dva.gov.au
- Phone: 1800 838 372
You can remain anonymous and every report is taken seriously. The information you provide will help ensure support reaches those who need it and the system remains fair, transparent and focused on veteran wellbeing. More information is available on the DVA website at www.dva.gov.au/about-us/provider-integrity.