You may find that the Australian Government websites have comprehensive information and you may need a little help with navigating vital support, if you are a veteran and would like to speak to someone regarding your individual needs, AV Connect recommends that you contact the relevant departments: DVA Veteran Access Network (VAN) officer 1800 838 372 or in person at a DVA office, Medicare officer on 132011 or in person at the Services Australia Centres
AV Connect is not endorsed by the linked sites. When you press the link, you will be taken to the external owner of that site, we take no responsibility as to the accuracy or currency of information on those sites. We do not endorse any information, goods or services referred to within the sites and our provision of links should not be taken to be an endorsement. We do not charge a commission from the organisations, nor do we charge for the use of providing this service to Veterans and their families. Veterans and their families are encouraged to access DVA’s website to learn more about DVA's funded benefits, entitlements & health services as we do not provide any services ourselves via this website.
Any individual who is serving or has served in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is considered a veteran, whether their service was undertaken within Australia or overseas. All veterans with at least one day permanent or continuous full-time service and their immediate family members are entitled to free and confidential mental health support services for life.
Fitness is a mental exercise
More than just physical
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Current and past full-time members of the ADF may be able to access free mental health treatment. This includes reservists who have at least one day of continuous full-time service (CFTS. You do not need to prove that your ADF service caused the conditions. DVA will cover the cost through Non-Liability Health Care (NLHC).
Mental health treatment can be provided to you by a:
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Alcohol or other drug community-based program approved by DVA
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GP,
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Hospital,
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Mental Health program by an Occupational therapist,
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Mental Health program by a Social Worker,
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Psychologist,
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Psychiatrist,
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PTSD program
You will need a Veteran White Card that covers mental health treatment, or a Veteran Gold Card.
Chaplains provide pastoral care and diverse spiritual support.
ADF Chaplains 1300 333 362
Chaplains 1800 24 27 52
Chaplaincy Australia
OPEN ARMS - Safe Zone Support is a free and anonymous counselling line for all current and ex-serving ADF personnel, veterans and their families. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Phone Line
1800 011 046
For free support, 24 hours a day, current ADF & families
Defence Member and Family Support provides a range of support services, assistance and resources to support families during deployment & family member absence. Partners of ADF members can access a range of services, including employment assistance funding and support during the ADF member's deployment.