Information for carers
This page is for anyone who provides everyday care to another person. The information on this page is to help you in your role as a carer.
Back to topNominating a representative
You may choose to authorise someone to be your nominated representative when dealing with us. A nominated representative can be a partner, adult relative, trustee, agent, legal representative or organisation. You can set up a nominated representative using MyService or by complete this form - Appointing a third party to represent a DVA client. For more information visit the nominated representative webpage.
Please note that this form only authorises representation with DVA. Other government departments or services may require you to create other arrangements. Information on representation arrangements for other departments can be found on the Help accessing aged care services page.
Back to topPlanning ahead
As you age, your needs may change, so it is important to get your affairs in order to ensure the best outcomes for you and your family.
Planning ahead will ensure your wishes are known and will help when dealing with government and future changes of circumstances. There are a few documents you should arrange to have in place such as a will, power of attorney and advanced care directives.
To assist with this, the Department has created the Planning Ahead booklet. This booklet has a personal information sheet and checklist which can be very helpful following a bereavement.
The planning ahead kit can be downloaded on the Planning ahead kit webpage.
Back to topFinancial assistance
Payments for carers
As a carer you may be entitled to financial assistance from the government. DVA is unable to provide this type of payment, however you may be entitled to either a Carers Allowance or a Carers Payment through Services Australia.
Information can be found on the Carer Allowance and the Carers Payment pages of the Services Australia website or by calling 132 717.
Services Australia - Financial Information Service
The Financial Information Service (FIS) provides free, independent and confidential information to help people make informed decisions about their finances. FIS officers can help you understand how financial products work and explain how a change to your circumstances may affect your financial situation, both now and into the future. They can also guide you to useful resources for managing your financial matters. Please note, they are not financial planners or counsellors and cannot give financial advice or recommend financial advisers.
You can speak with a FIS officer by calling 132 300 and when asked why you’re calling, say ‘Financial Information Service’.
You can find out more by visiting the Financial Information Service webpage.
Moneysmart
Moneysmart, is a trusted Australian Government website to help Australians make confident money decisions with free tools, tips and calculators.
Moneysmart explains banking and budgeting, loans, credit and debt, investing and planning, super and retirement, insurance and how to stay safe online. It also has a range of tools to help you manage your money, such as budget planners, calculators for mortgages, income taxes and superannuation, as well as a saving goal calculator.
Through the Moneysmart website you can:
- Report a financial scam - Report an investment scam - Moneysmart.gov.au
- increase retirement preparedness - Retirement planner - Moneysmart.gov.au
- find registered financial advisers - Financial advisers register - Moneysmart.gov.au
If you a seeking a financial adviser, you can check the register on the website.
For more information you can visit the Moneysmart.gov.au webpage.
Back to topWellbeing advocates
If you need assistance with accessing support, you might consider engaging the services of a wellbeing advocate.
Wellbeing advocates are often ex-service personnel who have undergone training to assist DVA clients with accessing compensation and wellbeing services. You can find more information on advocates on the What is an advocate webpage. You can search for accredited advocates in your area by visiting the Advocate Register web page
Back to topInformation access and assistance
Veterans’ Access Network
The Veterans' Access Network (VAN) are your first point of contact with DVA. They provide general information, are able to connect you with relevant areas of the Department and can make referrals to appropriate external entities where necessary. They can be reached by phone on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) face to face at staffed locations around Australia or by email to generalenquiries@dva.gov.au. You can find the locations of our VAN officers on the Location Finder web page.
MyService
MyService is the pathway to do business with us online. You can:
- submit claims and view their progress (go to video How to submit a DVA claim online)
- upload information to support your claim
- apply for DVA-funded mental health treatment and other benefits
- access your Veteran Card online and a list of your accepted conditions
- book transport and claim transport costs
- download official letters for tax or concession purposes
- update your personal details
- send us a message
- request a call from us.
Help accessing aged care services
It’s no secret aged care can be confusing and it’s often difficult know where to start. You don’t have to do it alone. There are many services available through the government as well as independent services that can support you on your aged care journey.
The Help Accessing Aged Care Services page provides information on available support. There are also further support services to help you understand and navigate aged care. You can explore these options by visiting the Getting support in aged care webpage on the My Aged Care website.
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