Principles of VVC’s engagement

The VVC’s engagement will be meaningful, inclusive, transparent, timely, tailored and informed.

Meaningful

Those affected by a decision have a right to be part of the decision-making process. Engagement is genuine and informs the actions and decisions of the VVC.

Inclusive

Engagement is human-centred, respectful, inclusive and accessible. Engagement ensures the design, organisation and implementation serve a clear purpose and the needs of those taking part.

Transparent

Engagement is representative and our position as an independent statutory body remains clearly impartial. Engagement includes those possibly affected by or interested in a decision. The process is clear and open about what stakeholders can and cannot influence.

Timely

Engagement respects stakeholders’ time and availability. We will aim to be proactive in our communication during decision-making stages and seek out key opportunities and initiatives to advance the VVC’s objectives.

Tailored

Our content and methods are customised to fit the needs of the veteran community and recognises that veterans are not a homogenous group. We will consider factors like language, race, age, technology access, service history and communication preferences, to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

Informed

Engagement gives participants the information and support they need to meaningfully take part.

Our engagement principles are based on:

  • the International Association for Public Participation’s (IAP2) ‘Core Values’
  • the United States-based National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation’s (NCDD) ‘Core Principles for Public Engagement’
  • the Victorian Government’s Public engagement framework (2021–25).

Ways to get our messages out

We use the following channels to plan and engage with the veteran and ex-service community and our stakeholders:

Direct engagement

  • meetings with individuals and groups
  • commemorative activities
  • launches
  • phone calls and videoconferencing
  • summits, forums and conferences
  • direct email communications
  • Communities of Practice
  • working parties
  • open invitation for community members to collaborate with VVC on specific activities.

Digital

Our relationships

  • We use our relationships with our stakeholders to engage with their communities. We do this through their established channels and relationships. These channels include forums, meetings and conferences.

Marketing

We advertise about:

  • grants
  • activities
  • opportunities to provide input/feedback
  • events.

Media

We will work with mainstream and veterans’ media to:

  • pass on information
  • promote opportunities to get involved.

Third-party support

  • We will support the activities of third parties doing work on our behalf.

Ways for you to connect with us

The following channels are open constantly to our stakeholders to connect with us:

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