The statement
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transparency Statement Also appears in 18 other agencies AASB ACIAR AFP AFSA ARPC AUASB BOM DFAT DSS EDUCATION FINANCE HSRA NAA NLA PC PSR SIA TEQSA
- Consultation with the Veteran Community
- Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
This statement sets out the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) approach to the safe, responsible and ethical adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in accordance with the Digital Transformation Agency’s (DTA) Policy for the responsible use of AI in government. (Template language)
DVA is modernising its technology systems to ensure veterans and their families receive timely, accessible and high‑quality services. This includes exploring opportunities to improve and streamline services through the safe and transparent adoption of AI technologies.
We recognise that AI is a rapidly evolving technology with the potential to enhance operations and service delivery. We will engage with AI carefully, transparently, and in ways that build trust across the veteran community and our workforce.
DVA’s AI Policy sets out principles, risk‑management approaches and approval processes to guide AI investigation, evaluation and implementation. Our governance approach aligns with Australian Government policies, frameworks and industry best practice.
All DVA staff undertake mandatory training on AI fundamentals, privacy and data protection.
Under the DTA Policy for the Responsible use of AI in Government, DVA ensures that AI use: (Template language)
- is appropriately governed, with arrangements that evolve as technology and policy mature
- is intentional, safe, responsible, and promotes accountability and transparency
- is monitored for effectiveness and protects the veteran community against potential negative impacts
- maintains stakeholder trust, particularly within the veteran community
DVA has established an AI Advisory Board, comprising government representatives, technical experts and a representative from veterans’ organisations, to support consultation, safety and oversight of AI initiatives and this transparency statement.
Consultation with the Veteran Community
DVA is committed to transparent engagement with the veteran community about how AI is considered and used. Consultation occurs through existing mechanisms such as:
- Defence publications & transition seminars
- Advocacy Training and Development Program (ATDP) newsroom articles
- Deputy Commissioner mailing lists (State Ex Service Organisations (ESOs) and fee-for-service advocates)
- National Consultation Framework (National ESOs) comprising
- Ex-Service Organisation Round Table (ESORT)
- Female Veterans and Veterans’ Families Policy Forum
- National Aged and Community Care Forum (NACCF)
- Operational Working Party (OWP)
- Younger Veterans - Contemporary Needs Forum (YVF).
This engagement ensures that AI initiatives reflect community expectations and contribute to improved outcomes and services for veterans and their families.
DVA adopts the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) definition of AI.
An AI system is a machine-based system that, for explicit or implicit objectives, infers, from the input it receives, how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. Different AI systems vary in their autonomy and adaptiveness after deployment.
Currently, DVA’s AI use falls within the following domains and usage patterns under the classification system for AI use:
- Domains: service delivery, policy and legal, and corporate and enabling.
- Usage patterns: Analytics for insights, and workplace productivity.
DVA will monitor usage to assure ongoing suitability of these technologies for these purposes.
DVA currently has AI technology deployed for:
- Statistical modelling and horizon scanning using machine‑learning algorithms to support data analysis
- Writing clarity tools to support spelling, grammar and punctuation checking
- Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat for research, idea generation and writing assistance, with DVA‑specific safeguards ensuring no data is shared with public large language models
- AI‑enabled website search, which only has access to published information
- Semantic Text Analysis (an advanced form of key word matching) to interpret unstructured MyService text responses provided by DVA clients when submitting claims to support presumptive liability of certain conditions, with staff always retaining responsibility for analysis and decisions relating to claim outcomes.
DVA is also trialling AI tools:
- Microsoft 365 Copilot (licensed version) consistent with other Commonwealth agencies
- GovAI platform capabilities to support claim processing, without using veteran personal data, and always with human oversight
- CLIKChat, an internal chatbot that summarises information from three publicly available government sources - Consolidated Library of Information and Knowledge, Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Repatriation Medical Authority. It does not access veteran records or personal data and does not make decisions or recommendations.
- Other chatbots, to assist with staff queries and information gathering.
DVA also expects the underpinning technology in our digital ecosystem to become increasingly sophisticated, including by leveraging AI.
DVA has commenced a pilot of a voluntary, consent based, Prototype Claims Document Reader AI tool. The prototype document reader has been built by DVA within the GovAI Platform. The pilot uses a clear consent model to ensure pilot participants who volunteer to participate in the pilot understand the purpose of the tool, what information may be used during the pilot and how AI enabled technologies may interact with information. The pilot will test the suitability of the tool to assist staff in processing claims. The tool does not make decisions or determine claim outcomes. Claims decisions will continue to be made by trained DVA delegates.
Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
As the community would expect, DVA computer systems also support employees and decision-makers with basic validation and task management, which can include some basic automation. These types of activities are governed by other arrangements and are outside the scope of the Policy for the responsible use of AI in government. (Template language)
DVA does make use of basic computer-assisted task management to support the efficiency of its service delivery and decision-making processes in line with general principles of administrative decision-making.
DVA does not and will not use AI to make decisions without appropriate human oversight - ‘human in the loop’ is a guiding principle.
As part of our adoption of AI technology, DVA ensures compliance with relevant legislation, including the Archives Act 1983 (Cth), Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth), and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), DVA’s Privacy Policy, and compliance with relevant Veterans’ Affairs law.
For more information about the laws relevant to support for veterans and their families, please visit the DVA website. For additional detail about all legislation administered by the department, please visit the Federal Register of Legislation.
DVA meets mandatory requirements of the Policy for the responsible use of AI in government and has designated an AI Accountable Official (October 2024). DVA has also appointed a Chief AI Officer (February 2026). (Template language)
For enquiries about the DVA AI Transparency Statement or about our adoption and usage of AI, please contact us at AI@dva.gov.au.
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transparency Statement
Last updated
9 October 2025
- Our Approach to AI
- Robust AI Governance
- Adoption of AI in DVA
- Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
- Compliance
On this page 1 - Our Approach to AI 2 - Robust AI Governance 3 - Adoption of AI in DVA 4 - Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation 5 - Compliance
This statement sets out the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) approach to the safe, responsible and ethical adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in accordance with the Digital Transformation Agency’s (DTA) [Policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2024-08/Policy for the responsible use of AI in government v1.1.pdf).
Our Approach to AI
At DVA, we are dedicated to modernising our technology systems to ensure veterans and their families have timely access to support and services. This includes identifying opportunities to enhance and automate through the application of technology, including safe and responsible use of AI to improve our processes, modernise our digital services, and drive improvements and innovations that ensure we provide a connected and accessible veteran support system.
AI is a fast-changing technology set that has great potential to improve operations and enhance services provided by the department. It is a transformative technology that we will engage with carefully and transparently as we explore how we can safely and ethically use it to improve outcomes for the veteran community.
We are committed to transparently working with veterans on how AI could be used to better support their needs. We are also committed to engaging with our employees.
Robust AI Governance
DVA is finalising an AI Policy that incorporates the principles, approach to risk management, and approval considerations to help guide our investigation, evaluation and implementation of AI, including our adoption of suitable, robust AI governance. We will continue to be guided by Australian Government policies, frameworks and guidelines around AI as well as industry best-practice.
As per the DTA’s [Policy for the Responsible use of AI in Government](https://www.digital.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2024-08/Policy for the responsible use of AI in government v1.1.pdf), DVA will ensure:
- AI use is appropriately governed
- engagement with AI is confident, safe and responsible, and promotes accountability and transparency
- stakeholders, particularly the veteran community, have trust in our use of AI
- risks are identified and addressed with appropriate mitigation measures
- AI access and usage is monitored.
DVA has stood up an AI Advisory Board, which includes Australian Government representatives, technical experts and a representative from veterans’ welfare and advocacy community organisations. The Advisory Board will help us ensure there is proper consultation with the veteran community in consideration and adoption of AI. Additionally, the Advisory Board will provide advice on AI safety and security, and will be consulted on AI initiatives, as well as on the preparation and maintenance of this transparency statement.
DVA is exploring opportunities where AI can help to achieve positive outcomes for veterans and veteran families. Ongoing engagement and consultation with the veteran community is essential to ensure improved outcomes and improved services.
DVA is committed to building trust with the veteran community, and we are dedicated to transparently designing and driving improvement initiatives through consultation with veterans, their families and their advocates.
When new proposals on AI are considered, DVA will engage with the veteran community via established communication and consultation mechanisms, such as, but not limited to:
- DVA website
- Social media
- Vetaffairs
- Defence Publications & Transition seminars
- Advocacy Training and Development Program (ATDP) newsroom articles
- Deputy Commissioner mailing lists (State Ex Service Organisations (ESOs) and fee-for-service advocates)
- National Consultation Framework (National ESOs) comprising
- Ex-Service Organisation Round Table (ESORT)
- Female Veterans Families Forum (FVFF)
- National Aged and Community Care Forum (NACCF)
- Operational Working Party (OWP)
- Younger Veterans - Contemporary Needs Forum (YVF).
Adoption of AI in DVA
DVA adopts the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) definition in our consideration and discussion of AI.
An AI system is a machine-based system that, for explicit or implicit objectives, infers, from the input it receives, how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. Different AI systems vary in their autonomy and adaptiveness after deployment.
AI at DVA is used primarily in analytics for insights across service delivery and corporate and enabling domains, although this is evolving.
DVA will monitor usage to assure ongoing suitability of these technologies for these purposes. For more information about the usage of AI in government and the domains in which they apply, please see http://digital.gov.au/ai/resources/use-classification.
The department currently has AI technology deployed for:
- Statistical modelling and horizon scanning – this includes AI technology (Machine Learning algorithms) to support maintenance and enhancement of data modelling.
- Improving writing clarity – AI tool(s) support checking of spelling, grammar and punctuation.
- AI-enabled website search on the DVA website, to improve access to publicly available information. The search function only has access to publicly available information.
DVA is also testing and trialling AI tools.
- A trial of Microsoft Copilot is underway, consistent with trials by other Australian Government Departments.
- DVA is accessing the Commonwealth whole of government GovAI environment, including to evaluate potential AI tools, which may support DVA employees to speed up claims processing. Current testing on the GovAI technology platform does not use veteran personal data.
- DVA is trialling an AI tool CLIKChat to help staff quickly find and summarise information from our external websites (Consolidated Library of Information and Knowledge, Department of Veterans Affairs and Repatriation Medical Authority). CLIKChat uses publicly available information, it does not access veteran records or personal data. It does not make decisions or give recommendations. All information from CLIKChat is checked by staff with human judgement always in control.
DVA also expects the underpinning technology in our digital ecosystem to become increasingly sophisticated, including by leveraging AI.
Periodic updates will be made to this statement to report on progress.
Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
As the community would expect, DVA computer systems support employees and decision-makers with basic validation and task management, which can include some basic automation. These types of activities are governed by other arrangements and are outside the scope of the [Policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2024-08/Policy for the responsible use of AI in government v1.1.pdf).
DVA does make use of basic computer-assisted task management to support the efficiency of its service delivery and decision-making processes in line with general principles of administrative decision-making.
DVA does not and will not use AI to make decisions without appropriate human oversight - ‘human in the loop’ is a guiding principle.
Compliance
As part of our adoption of AI technology, we are ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation, including the Archives Act 1983 (Cth), Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth), and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), DVA’s Privacy Policy, and compliance with relevant Veterans’ Affairs law.
For more information about the laws relevant to support for veterans and their families, please visit our website. For additional detail about all legislation administered by the department, please visit the Federal Register of Legislation.
The department is compliant with the mandatory requirements of the [Policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2024-08/Policy for the responsible use of AI in government v1.1.pdf):
- A DVA AI Accountable Official was designated in October 2024.
- This AI Transparency Statement was first published on dva.gov.au in February 2025.
We will be reviewing and updating this statement annually or when significant changes occur within our adoption of AI technology.
For enquiries about the DVA AI Transparency Statement or about our adoption and usage of AI, please contact us at AI@dva.gov.au.
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transparency Statement
Last updated
9 October 2025
- Our Approach to AI
- Robust AI Governance
- Adoption of AI in DVA
- Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
- Compliance
On this page 1 - Our Approach to AI 2 - Robust AI Governance 3 - Adoption of AI in DVA 4 - Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation 5 - Compliance
This statement sets out the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) approach to the safe, responsible and ethical adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in accordance with the Digital Transformation Agency’s (DTA) [Policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2024-08/Policy for the responsible use of AI in government v1.1.pdf).
Our Approach to AI
At DVA, we are dedicated to modernising our technology systems to ensure veterans and their families have timely access to support and services. This includes identifying opportunities to enhance and automate through the application of technology, including safe and responsible use of AI to improve our processes, modernise our digital services, and drive improvements and innovations that ensure we provide a connected and accessible veteran support system.
AI is a fast-changing technology set that has great potential to improve operations and enhance services provided by the department. It is a transformative technology that we will engage with carefully and transparently as we explore how we can safely and ethically use it to improve outcomes for the veteran community.
We are committed to transparently working with veterans on how AI could be used to better support their needs. We are also committed to engaging with our employees.
Robust AI Governance
DVA is finalising an AI Policy that incorporates the principles, approach to risk management, and approval considerations to help guide our investigation, evaluation and implementation of AI, including our adoption of suitable, robust AI governance. We will continue to be guided by Australian Government policies, frameworks and guidelines around AI as well as industry best-practice.
As per the DTA’s [Policy for the Responsible use of AI in Government](https://www.digital.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2024-08/Policy for the responsible use of AI in government v1.1.pdf), DVA will ensure:
- AI use is appropriately governed
- engagement with AI is confident, safe and responsible, and promotes accountability and transparency
- stakeholders, particularly the veteran community, have trust in our use of AI
- risks are identified and addressed with appropriate mitigation measures
- AI access and usage is monitored.
DVA has stood up an AI Advisory Board, which includes Australian Government representatives, technical experts and a representative from veterans’ welfare and advocacy community organisations. The Advisory Board will help us ensure there is proper consultation with the veteran community in consideration and adoption of AI. Additionally, the Advisory Board will provide advice on AI safety and security, and will be consulted on AI initiatives, as well as on the preparation and maintenance of this transparency statement.
DVA is exploring opportunities where AI can help to achieve positive outcomes for veterans and veteran families. Ongoing engagement and consultation with the veteran community is essential to ensure improved outcomes and improved services.
DVA is committed to building trust with the veteran community, and we are dedicated to transparently designing and driving improvement initiatives through consultation with veterans, their families and their advocates.
When new proposals on AI are considered, DVA will engage with the veteran community via established communication and consultation mechanisms, such as, but not limited to:
- DVA website
- Social media
- Vetaffairs
- Defence Publications & Transition seminars
- Advocacy Training and Development Program (ATDP) newsroom articles
- Deputy Commissioner mailing lists (State Ex Service Organisations (ESOs) and fee-for-service advocates)
- National Consultation Framework (National ESOs) comprising
- Ex-Service Organisation Round Table (ESORT)
- Female Veterans Families Forum (FVFF)
- National Aged and Community Care Forum (NACCF)
- Operational Working Party (OWP)
- Younger Veterans - Contemporary Needs Forum (YVF).
Adoption of AI in DVA
DVA adopts the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) definition in our consideration and discussion of AI.
An AI system is a machine-based system that, for explicit or implicit objectives, infers, from the input it receives, how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. Different AI systems vary in their autonomy and adaptiveness after deployment.
AI at DVA is used primarily in analytics for insights across service delivery and corporate and enabling domains, although this is evolving.
DVA will monitor usage to assure ongoing suitability of these technologies for these purposes. For more information about the usage of AI in government and the domains in which they apply, please see http://digital.gov.au/ai/resources/use-classification.
The department currently has AI technology deployed for:
- Statistical modelling and horizon scanning – this includes AI technology (Machine Learning algorithms) to support maintenance and enhancement of data modelling.
- Improving writing clarity – AI tool(s) support checking of spelling, grammar and punctuation.
- AI-enabled website search on the DVA website, to improve access to publicly available information. The search function only has access to publicly available information.
DVA is also testing and trialling AI tools.
- A trial of Microsoft Copilot is underway, consistent with trials by other Australian Government Departments.
- DVA is accessing the Commonwealth whole of government GovAI environment, including to evaluate potential AI tools, which may support DVA employees to speed up claims processing. Current testing on the GovAI technology platform does not use veteran personal data.
- DVA is trialling an AI tool CLIKChat to help staff quickly find and summarise information from our external websites (Consolidated Library of Information and Knowledge, Department of Veterans Affairs and Repatriation Medical Authority). CLIKChat uses publicly available information, it does not access veteran records or personal data. It does not make decisions or give recommendations. All information from CLIKChat is checked by staff with human judgement always in control.
DVA also expects the underpinning technology in our digital ecosystem to become increasingly sophisticated, including by leveraging AI.
Periodic updates will be made to this statement to report on progress.
Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
As the community would expect, DVA computer systems support employees and decision-makers with basic validation and task management, which can include some basic automation. These types of activities are governed by other arrangements and are outside the scope of the [Policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2024-08/Policy for the responsible use of AI in government v1.1.pdf).
DVA does make use of basic computer-assisted task management to support the efficiency of its service delivery and decision-making processes in line with general principles of administrative decision-making.
DVA does not and will not use AI to make decisions without appropriate human oversight - ‘human in the loop’ is a guiding principle.
Compliance
As part of our adoption of AI technology, we are ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation, including the Archives Act 1983 (Cth), Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth), and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), DVA’s Privacy Policy, and compliance with relevant Veterans’ Affairs law.
For more information about the laws relevant to support for veterans and their families, please visit our website. For additional detail about all legislation administered by the department, please visit the Federal Register of Legislation.
The department is compliant with the mandatory requirements of the [Policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2024-08/Policy for the responsible use of AI in government v1.1.pdf):
- A DVA AI Accountable Official was designated in October 2024.
- This AI Transparency Statement was first published on dva.gov.au in February 2025.
We will be reviewing and updating this statement annually or when significant changes occur within our adoption of AI technology.
For enquiries about the DVA AI Transparency Statement or about our adoption and usage of AI, please contact us at AI@dva.gov.au.
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transparency Statement
Last updated
9 February 2026
- Our Approach to AI
- Robust AI Governance
- Consultation with the Veteran Community
- Adoption of AI in DVA
- Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
- Compliance
- Review and Contact
On this page 1 - Our Approach to AI 2 - Robust AI Governance 3 - Consultation with the Veteran Community 4 - Adoption of AI in DVA 5 - Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation 6 - Compliance 7 - Review and Contact
This statement sets out the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) approach to the safe, responsible and ethical adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in accordance with the Digital Transformation Agency’s (DTA) Policy for the responsible use of AI in government.
Our Approach to AI
DVA is modernising its technology systems to ensure veterans and their families receive timely, accessible and high‑quality services. This includes exploring opportunities to improve and streamline services through the safe and transparent adoption of AI technologies.
We recognise that AI is a rapidly evolving technology with the potential to enhance operations and service delivery. We will engage with AI carefully, transparently, and in ways that build trust across the veteran community and our workforce.
Robust AI Governance
DVA’s AI Policy sets out principles, risk‑management approaches and approval processes to guide AI investigation, evaluation and implementation. Our governance approach aligns with Australian Government policies, frameworks and industry best practice.
All DVA staff undertake mandatory training on AI fundamentals, privacy and data protection.
Under the DTA Policy for the Responsible use of AI in Government, DVA ensures that AI use:
- is appropriately governed, with arrangements that evolve as technology and policy mature
- is intentional, safe, responsible, and promotes accountability and transparency
- maintains stakeholder trust, particularly within the veteran community
DVA has established an AI Advisory Board, comprising government representatives, technical experts and a representative from veterans’ organisations, to support consultation, safety and oversight of AI initiatives and this transparency statement.
Consultation with the Veteran Community
DVA is committed to transparent engagement with the veteran community about how AI is considered and used. Consultation occurs through existing mechanisms such as:
- DVA website
- Social media
- Vetaffairs
- Defence publications & transition seminars
- Advocacy Training and Development Program (ATDP) newsroom articles
- Deputy Commissioner mailing lists (State Ex Service Organisations (ESOs) and fee-for-service advocates)
- National Consultation Framework (National ESOs) comprising
- Ex-Service Organisation Round Table (ESORT)
- Female Veterans and Veterans’ Families Policy Forum
- National Aged and Community Care Forum (NACCF)
- Operational Working Party (OWP)
- Younger Veterans - Contemporary Needs Forum (YVF).
This engagement ensures that AI initiatives reflect community expectations and contribute to improved outcomes and services for veterans and their families.
Adoption of AI in DVA
DVA adopts the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) definition of AI.
An AI system is a machine-based system that, for explicit or implicit objectives, infers, from the input it receives, how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. Different AI systems vary in their autonomy and adaptiveness after deployment.
DVA currently has AI technology deployed for:
- Statistical modelling and horizon scanning using machine‑learning algorithms to support data analysis
- Writing clarity tools to support spelling, grammar and punctuation checking
- Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat for research, idea generation and writing assistance, with DVA‑specific safeguards ensuring no data is shared with public large language models
- AI‑enabled website search, which only has access to publicly available information
- Semantic Text Analysis to interpret unstructured MyService responses provided by DVA clients when submitting claims, with staff always retaining responsibility for analysis and decisions relating to claim outcomes.
DVA is also trialling AI tools:
- Microsoft 365 Copilot (licensed version) consistent with other Commonwealth agencies
- GovAI platform capabilities to support claim processing, without using veteran personal data, and always with human oversight
- CLIKChat, an internal chatbot that summarises information from three publicly available government sources - Consolidated Library of Information and Knowledge, Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Repatriation Medical Authority. It does not access veteran records or personal data and does not make decisions or recommendations.
DVA is developing a trial of a voluntary, consent based, Proof of Concept Claims Document Reader AI tool. The prototype document reader has been built by DVA within the GovAI Platform. A proposed trial will use a clear consent model to ensure trial participants who volunteer to participate in the trial understand the purpose of the tool, what information may be used during the trial and how AI enabled technologies may interact with information. The trial will test the suitability of the tool to assist staff. The tool does not make decisions or determine claim outcomes. Claims decisions will continue to be made by trained DVA delegates.
For more information about the usage of AI in government and the domains in which they apply, please see Artificial intelligence in government.
Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
DVA computer systems also support employees and decision-makers with basic validation and task management, which can include some basic automation. These types of activities are governed by other arrangements and are outside the scope of the Policy for the responsible use of AI in government.
DVA does make use of basic computer-assisted task management to support the efficiency of its service delivery and decision-making processes in line with general principles of administrative decision-making.
DVA does not and will not use AI to make decisions without appropriate human oversight - ‘human in the loop’ is a guiding principle.
Compliance
As part of our adoption of AI technology, DVA ensures compliance with relevant legislation, including the Archives Act 1983 (Cth), Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth), and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), DVA’s Privacy Policy, and compliance with relevant Veterans’ Affairs law.
For more information about the laws relevant to support for veterans and their families, please visit the DVA website. For additional detail about all legislation administered by the department, please visit the Federal Register of Legislation.
Review and Contact
DVA meets mandatory requirements of the Policy for the responsible use of AI in government and has designated an AI Accountable Official (October 2024). The designation of a Chief AI Officer is currently being formalised.
For enquiries about the DVA AI Transparency Statement or about our adoption and usage of AI, please contact us at AI@dva.gov.au.
Was this page useful?
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It was well written
The layout and style made it easy to read
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transparency Statement
Last updated
9 February 2026
- Our Approach to AI
- Robust AI Governance
- Consultation with the Veteran Community
- Adoption of AI in DVA
- Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
- Compliance
- Review and Contact
This statement sets out the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) approach to the safe, responsible and ethical adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in accordance with the Digital Transformation Agency’s (DTA) Policy for the responsible use of AI in government.
Our Approach to AI
DVA is modernising its technology systems to ensure veterans and their families receive timely, accessible and high‑quality services. This includes exploring opportunities to improve and streamline services through the safe and transparent adoption of AI technologies.
We recognise that AI is a rapidly evolving technology with the potential to enhance operations and service delivery. We will engage with AI carefully, transparently, and in ways that build trust across the veteran community and our workforce.
Robust AI Governance
DVA’s AI Policy sets out principles, risk‑management approaches and approval processes to guide AI investigation, evaluation and implementation. Our governance approach aligns with Australian Government policies, frameworks and industry best practice.
All DVA staff undertake mandatory training on AI fundamentals, privacy and data protection.
Under the DTA Policy for the Responsible use of AI in Government, DVA ensures that AI use:
- is appropriately governed, with arrangements that evolve as technology and policy mature
- is intentional, safe, responsible, and promotes accountability and transparency
- maintains stakeholder trust, particularly within the veteran community
DVA has established an AI Advisory Board, comprising government representatives, technical experts and a representative from veterans’ organisations, to support consultation, safety and oversight of AI initiatives and this transparency statement.
Consultation with the Veteran Community
DVA is committed to transparent engagement with the veteran community about how AI is considered and used. Consultation occurs through existing mechanisms such as:
- DVA website
- Social media
- Vetaffairs
- Defence publications & transition seminars
- Advocacy Training and Development Program (ATDP) newsroom articles
- Deputy Commissioner mailing lists (State Ex Service Organisations (ESOs) and fee-for-service advocates)
- National Consultation Framework (National ESOs) comprising
- Ex-Service Organisation Round Table (ESORT)
- Female Veterans and Veterans’ Families Policy Forum
- National Aged and Community Care Forum (NACCF)
- Operational Working Party (OWP)
- Younger Veterans - Contemporary Needs Forum (YVF).
This engagement ensures that AI initiatives reflect community expectations and contribute to improved outcomes and services for veterans and their families.
Adoption of AI in DVA
DVA adopts the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) definition of AI.
An AI system is a machine-based system that, for explicit or implicit objectives, infers, from the input it receives, how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. Different AI systems vary in their autonomy and adaptiveness after deployment.
DVA currently has AI technology deployed for:
- Statistical modelling and horizon scanning using machine‑learning algorithms to support data analysis
- Writing clarity tools to support spelling, grammar and punctuation checking
- Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat for research, idea generation and writing assistance, with DVA‑specific safeguards ensuring no data is shared with public large language models
- AI‑enabled website search, which only has access to publicly available information
- Semantic Text Analysis to interpret unstructured MyService responses provided by DVA clients when submitting claims, with staff always retaining responsibility for analysis and decisions relating to claim outcomes.
DVA is also trialling AI tools:
- Microsoft 365 Copilot (licensed version) consistent with other Commonwealth agencies
- GovAI platform capabilities to support claim processing, without using veteran personal data, and always with human oversight
- CLIKChat, an internal chatbot that summarises information from three publicly available government sources - Consolidated Library of Information and Knowledge, Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Repatriation Medical Authority. It does not access veteran records or personal data and does not make decisions or recommendations.
DVA is developing a trial of a voluntary, consent based, Proof of Concept Claims Document Reader AI tool. The prototype document reader has been built by DVA within the GovAI Platform. A proposed trial will use a clear consent model to ensure trial participants who volunteer to participate in the trial understand the purpose of the tool, what information may be used during the trial and how AI enabled technologies may interact with information. The trial will test the suitability of the tool to assist staff. The tool does not make decisions or determine claim outcomes. Claims decisions will continue to be made by trained DVA delegates.
For more information about the usage of AI in government and the domains in which they apply, please see Artificial intelligence in government.
Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
DVA computer systems also support employees and decision-makers with basic validation and task management, which can include some basic automation. These types of activities are governed by other arrangements and are outside the scope of the Policy for the responsible use of AI in government.
DVA does make use of basic computer-assisted task management to support the efficiency of its service delivery and decision-making processes in line with general principles of administrative decision-making.
DVA does not and will not use AI to make decisions without appropriate human oversight - ‘human in the loop’ is a guiding principle.
Compliance
As part of our adoption of AI technology, DVA ensures compliance with relevant legislation, including the Archives Act 1983 (Cth), Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth), and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), DVA’s Privacy Policy, and compliance with relevant Veterans’ Affairs law.
For more information about the laws relevant to support for veterans and their families, please visit the DVA website. For additional detail about all legislation administered by the department, please visit the Federal Register of Legislation.
Review and Contact
DVA meets mandatory requirements of the Policy for the responsible use of AI in government and has designated an AI Accountable Official (October 2024). The designation of a Chief AI Officer is currently being formalised.
For enquiries about the DVA AI Transparency Statement or about our adoption and usage of AI, please contact us at AI@dva.gov.au.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transparency Statement
Last updated
1 April 2026
- Our Approach to AI
- Robust AI Governance
- Consultation with the Veteran Community
- Adoption of AI in DVA
- Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
- Compliance
- Review and Contact
This statement sets out the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) approach to the safe, responsible and ethical adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in accordance with the Digital Transformation Agency’s (DTA) Policy for the responsible use of AI in government.
Our Approach to AI
DVA is modernising its technology systems to ensure veterans and their families receive timely, accessible and high‑quality services. This includes exploring opportunities to improve and streamline services through the safe and transparent adoption of AI technologies.
We recognise that AI is a rapidly evolving technology with the potential to enhance operations and service delivery. We will engage with AI carefully, transparently, and in ways that build trust across the veteran community and our workforce.
Robust AI Governance
DVA’s AI Policy sets out principles, risk‑management approaches and approval processes to guide AI investigation, evaluation and implementation. Our governance approach aligns with Australian Government policies, frameworks and industry best practice.
All DVA staff undertake mandatory training on AI fundamentals, privacy and data protection.
Under the DTA Policy for the Responsible use of AI in Government, DVA ensures that AI use:
- is appropriately governed, with arrangements that evolve as technology and policy mature
- is intentional, safe, responsible, and promotes accountability and transparency
- maintains stakeholder trust, particularly within the veteran community
DVA has established an AI Advisory Board, comprising government representatives, technical experts and a representative from veterans’ organisations, to support consultation, safety and oversight of AI initiatives and this transparency statement.
Consultation with the Veteran Community
DVA is committed to transparent engagement with the veteran community about how AI is considered and used. Consultation occurs through existing mechanisms such as:
- DVA website
- Social media
- Vetaffairs
- Defence publications & transition seminars
- Advocacy Training and Development Program (ATDP) newsroom articles
- Deputy Commissioner mailing lists (State Ex Service Organisations (ESOs) and fee-for-service advocates)
- National Consultation Framework (National ESOs) comprising
- Ex-Service Organisation Round Table (ESORT)
- Female Veterans and Veterans’ Families Policy Forum
- National Aged and Community Care Forum (NACCF)
- Operational Working Party (OWP)
- Younger Veterans - Contemporary Needs Forum (YVF).
This engagement ensures that AI initiatives reflect community expectations and contribute to improved outcomes and services for veterans and their families.
Adoption of AI in DVA
DVA adopts the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) definition of AI.
An AI system is a machine-based system that, for explicit or implicit objectives, infers, from the input it receives, how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. Different AI systems vary in their autonomy and adaptiveness after deployment.
DVA currently has AI technology deployed for:
- Statistical modelling and horizon scanning using machine‑learning algorithms to support data analysis
- Writing clarity tools to support spelling, grammar and punctuation checking
- Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat for research, idea generation and writing assistance, with DVA‑specific safeguards ensuring no data is shared with public large language models
- AI‑enabled website search, which only has access to publicly available information
- Semantic Text Analysis (an advanced form of key word matching) to interpret unstructured MyService text responses provided by DVA clients when submitting claims, with staff always retaining responsibility for analysis and decisions relating to claim outcomes.
DVA is also trialling AI tools:
- Microsoft 365 Copilot (licensed version) consistent with other Commonwealth agencies
- GovAI platform capabilities to support claim processing, without using veteran personal data, and always with human oversight
- CLIKChat, an internal chatbot that summarises information from three publicly available government sources - Consolidated Library of Information and Knowledge, Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Repatriation Medical Authority. It does not access veteran records or personal data and does not make decisions or recommendations.
DVA has commenced a trial of a voluntary, consent based, Proof of Concept Claims Document Reader AI tool. The prototype document reader has been built by DVA within the GovAI Platform. The trial uses a clear consent model to ensure trial participants who volunteer to participate in the trial understand the purpose of the tool, what information may be used during the trial and how AI enabled technologies may interact with information. The trial will test the suitability of the tool to assist staff in processing claims. The tool does not make decisions or determine claim outcomes. Claims decisions will continue to be made by trained DVA delegates.
For more information about the usage of AI in government and the domains in which they apply, please see Artificial intelligence in government.
Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
DVA computer systems also support employees and decision-makers with basic validation and task management, which can include some basic automation. These types of activities are governed by other arrangements and are outside the scope of the Policy for the responsible use of AI in government.
DVA does make use of basic computer-assisted task management to support the efficiency of its service delivery and decision-making processes in line with general principles of administrative decision-making.
DVA does not and will not use AI to make decisions without appropriate human oversight - ‘human in the loop’ is a guiding principle.
Compliance
As part of our adoption of AI technology, DVA ensures compliance with relevant legislation, including the Archives Act 1983 (Cth), Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth), and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), DVA’s Privacy Policy, and compliance with relevant Veterans’ Affairs law.
For more information about the laws relevant to support for veterans and their families, please visit the DVA website. For additional detail about all legislation administered by the department, please visit the Federal Register of Legislation.
Review and Contact
DVA meets mandatory requirements of the Policy for the responsible use of AI in government and has designated an AI Accountable Official (October 2024). The designation of a Chief AI Officer is currently being formalised.
For enquiries about the DVA AI Transparency Statement or about our adoption and usage of AI, please contact us at AI@dva.gov.au.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transparency Statement
Last updated
2 April 2026
- Our Approach to AI
- Robust AI Governance
- Consultation with the Veteran Community
- Adoption of AI in DVA
- Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
- Compliance
- Review and Contact
This statement sets out the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) approach to the safe, responsible and ethical adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in accordance with the Digital Transformation Agency’s (DTA) Policy for the responsible use of AI in government.
Our Approach to AI
DVA is modernising its technology systems to ensure veterans and their families receive timely, accessible and high‑quality services. This includes exploring opportunities to improve and streamline services through the safe and transparent adoption of AI technologies.
We recognise that AI is a rapidly evolving technology with the potential to enhance operations and service delivery. We will engage with AI carefully, transparently, and in ways that build trust across the veteran community and our workforce.
Robust AI Governance
DVA’s AI Policy sets out principles, risk‑management approaches and approval processes to guide AI investigation, evaluation and implementation. Our governance approach aligns with Australian Government policies, frameworks and industry best practice.
All DVA staff undertake mandatory training on AI fundamentals, privacy and data protection.
Under the DTA Policy for the Responsible use of AI in Government, DVA ensures that AI use:
- is appropriately governed, with arrangements that evolve as technology and policy mature
- is intentional, safe, responsible, and promotes accountability and transparency
- maintains stakeholder trust, particularly within the veteran community
DVA has established an AI Advisory Board, comprising government representatives, technical experts and a representative from veterans’ organisations, to support consultation, safety and oversight of AI initiatives and this transparency statement.
Consultation with the Veteran Community
DVA is committed to transparent engagement with the veteran community about how AI is considered and used. Consultation occurs through existing mechanisms such as:
- DVA website
- Social media
- Vetaffairs
- Defence publications & transition seminars
- Advocacy Training and Development Program (ATDP) newsroom articles
- Deputy Commissioner mailing lists (State Ex Service Organisations (ESOs) and fee-for-service advocates)
- National Consultation Framework (National ESOs) comprising
- Ex-Service Organisation Round Table (ESORT)
- Female Veterans and Veterans’ Families Policy Forum
- National Aged and Community Care Forum (NACCF)
- Operational Working Party (OWP)
- Younger Veterans - Contemporary Needs Forum (YVF).
This engagement ensures that AI initiatives reflect community expectations and contribute to improved outcomes and services for veterans and their families.
Adoption of AI in DVA
DVA adopts the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) definition of AI.
An AI system is a machine-based system that, for explicit or implicit objectives, infers, from the input it receives, how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. Different AI systems vary in their autonomy and adaptiveness after deployment.
DVA currently has AI technology deployed for:
- Statistical modelling and horizon scanning using machine‑learning algorithms to support data analysis
- Writing clarity tools to support spelling, grammar and punctuation checking
- Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat for research, idea generation and writing assistance, with DVA‑specific safeguards ensuring no data is shared with public large language models
- AI‑enabled website search, which only has access to publicly available information
- Semantic Text Analysis (an advanced form of key word matching) to interpret unstructured MyService text responses provided by DVA clients when submitting claims, with staff always retaining responsibility for analysis and decisions relating to claim outcomes.
DVA is also trialling AI tools:
- Microsoft 365 Copilot (licensed version) consistent with other Commonwealth agencies
- GovAI platform capabilities to support claim processing, without using veteran personal data, and always with human oversight
- CLIKChat, an internal chatbot that summarises information from three publicly available government sources - Consolidated Library of Information and Knowledge, Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Repatriation Medical Authority. It does not access veteran records or personal data and does not make decisions or recommendations.
DVA has commenced a trial of a voluntary, consent based, Proof of Concept Claims Document Reader AI tool. The prototype document reader has been built by DVA within the GovAI Platform. The trial uses a clear consent model to ensure trial participants who volunteer to participate in the trial understand the purpose of the tool, what information may be used during the trial and how AI enabled technologies may interact with information. The trial will test the suitability of the tool to assist staff in processing claims. The tool does not make decisions or determine claim outcomes. Claims decisions will continue to be made by trained DVA delegates.
For more information about the usage of AI in government and the domains in which they apply, please see Artificial intelligence in government.
Simpler forms of basic computer validation and task automation
DVA computer systems also support employees and decision-makers with basic validation and task management, which can include some basic automation. These types of activities are governed by other arrangements and are outside the scope of the Policy for the responsible use of AI in government.
DVA does make use of basic computer-assisted task management to support the efficiency of its service delivery and decision-making processes in line with general principles of administrative decision-making.
DVA does not and will not use AI to make decisions without appropriate human oversight - ‘human in the loop’ is a guiding principle.
Compliance
As part of our adoption of AI technology, DVA ensures compliance with relevant legislation, including the Archives Act 1983 (Cth), Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth), and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), DVA’s Privacy Policy, and compliance with relevant Veterans’ Affairs law.
For more information about the laws relevant to support for veterans and their families, please visit the DVA website. For additional detail about all legislation administered by the department, please visit the Federal Register of Legislation.
Review and Contact
DVA meets mandatory requirements of the Policy for the responsible use of AI in government and has designated an AI Accountable Official (October 2024). DVA has appointed a Chief AI Officer.
For enquiries about the DVA AI Transparency Statement or about our adoption and usage of AI, please contact us at AI@dva.gov.au.
Statement text © Department of Veterans' Affairs. Most agency content is CC BY 4.0; check the original for its terms.