No one understands the needs of women veterans better than women veterans themselves.
Representing Women Veterans
Part of WVNA’s purpose is to make sure that understanding reaches the organisations able to act on it.
How We Do It
Under our constitution, WVNA works with veteran and ex-service organisations to identify the specific issues that the unique aspects of military service create for women veterans, and to focus attention on our members’ health and wellbeing needs. In practice, that means sharing our members’ experience through consultation with the veteran support sector, and working alongside other ex-service organisations to strengthen the support available to women during and after service.
The Issues We Raise
These come directly from our purpose and from what our members tell us.
Transition from Defence to civilian life
Easing transition, readjustment and reintegration for women leaving the ADF
Social connection
Reducing isolation through community. Connection is a health outcome, not a luxury
Health and wellbeing
Services that meet the specific needs of women veterans
A safe and inclusive environment
For all women who have served, in everything we do
How We Engage
WVNA maintains consistent liaison with government bodies, the veteran support sector, and other ex-service organisations, contributing our members’ experience through established consultation channels.
Government & Policy Submissions
- Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade (FADT) Committee
- Australian Human Rights Commission
- Women Veterans Strategy
Consultation & Sector Engagement
- State DVA consultation forums
- ESO Peak Body consultation
- Transition seminars and stakeholder meetings
- Wellbeing Agency engagement
Research & Representation
- Involvement in Strength in Transitions research
- Women Who Have Served in the ADF, Journey Mapping workshop: Health and Ageing
- Ongoing collaboration with DVA, ESOs, and national stakeholders
Not one submission. Not one meeting. Consistent presence, year after year.
What We've Achieved
WVNA is making a tangible impact, ensuring women veterans are no longer overlooked in policy, programs, and services.
WVNA’s liaison work helps ensure women veterans are seen, heard, and supported.
| Impact Area | Achievement |
|---|---|
| National conversations | Influenced through formal submissions and consultation processes. |
| Government representation | Women veterans' voices present in key sector discussions. |
| Cross-sector partnerships | Strengthened to improve support pathways and outcomes. |
| Visibility | Increased recognition of women veterans through national engagement. |
| Community | Built a strong, connected network that reduces isolation and fosters belonging. |
| Safe spaces | Created environments where women veterans feel heard and supported. |
Get Involved
You don’t need a policy background. You just need your experience. WVNA members can contribute by:
Sharing your story
Lived experience is our most powerful evidence
Participating in consultations
We notify members when opportunities arise
Connecting with your regional coordinator
Local voices matter in national conversations
Staying informed
Members receive regular updates on our representation work
The more women veterans who engage, the stronger our collective voice becomes.
Trust and Credentials
Registered Not-for-Profit Charity
Incorporated Association, Queensland
Established 2016
10 years of community building
Open to all service branches
Navy, Army, Air Force, Reserves
Australia-wide
Metro, regional, and remote
Ready to Add Your Voice?
Women veterans deserve to be heard wherever decisions about them are made. Join WVNA and add your experience to the voice we carry into the sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does WVNA raise on behalf of women veterans?
Recognition, visibility, and wellbeing of women veterans across Australia, stronger transition support, better mental health access, equity within veteran systems, and lived experience driving policy at every level.
How does WVNA engage with government and policymakers?
Through formal submissions to the FADT Committee and Australian Human Rights Commission, State DVA consultation forums, ESO Peak Body engagement, the Wellbeing Agency, and contributions to the Women Veterans Strategy.
Is WVNA's representation work independent?
Yes. WVNA is an independent not-for-profit. Our representation is driven by our members’ needs, not government funding or political affiliation.
What is the Women Veterans Strategy and is WVNA involved?
The Women Veterans Strategy is a national initiative improving outcomes for women who served in the ADF. WVNA has contributed to this work and continues to engage as it develops.
How does representation connect to WVNA’s community work?
The two go hand in hand. Our community events and peer support give us direct insight into what women veterans need, and that insight informs everything we raise with the organisations we work alongside.