Veterans, current Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and their families can access a range of government services that provide support for wellbeing, health care, compensation, transition, counselling and family needs. Though navigating support services can be challenging, particularly if you’re not sure which organisation can help with your situation. Understanding the role of each service, and when you can contact them, will make it easier for you to find the right support at the right time.
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) delivers veterans’ entitlements and other services. This includes compensation and rehabilitation claims, income support, transport assistance, access to health care treatment and MyService. If you have questions about a claim, payment or another DVA service, DVA is the best place to contact.
Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides free and confidential mental health and wellbeing support for eligible veterans, serving ADF members, and their families. Counselling, peer support, group programs and 24/7 phone assistance are all available for people seeking mental health support for themselves or someone they care about.
For ADF members preparing to leave military service, the Joint Transition Authority (JTA) provides support before, during and after separation from the ADF.
Current serving members and their families can also access Defence Member and Family Support. The service provides practical and personal support for the practical and personal challenges of military life, including postings, relocations, deployments and connecting with local support services.
The Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency launched on 1 July and is a good starting point if you're unsure where to go next. The Agency provides wellbeing information, helps veterans and families of veterans navigate the broader support system, and can connect people with services across government and the community. Support is available through the Agency’s website and service directory.
If you have more complex needs, you can call the Agency helpline on 1800 823 922. The helpline is open from Monday - Friday 8:30am-5pm in the time zone you’re located.
Visit the Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency website for more information or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
