Disability can affect many parts of everyday life. It may be physical, cognitive, sensory or related to mental health. For veterans and families, it may be linked to service, injury, illness or changes later in life. 

Support is available to help you stay independent and connected, in ways that work for you and your family.  

Disability support includes services, programs, equipment and practical help for everyday life. 

What support can help with 

Disability support looks different for everyone. Depending on your needs, it may help with: 

• Personal care, mobility or transport 
• Health needs, equipment or home modifications 
• Managing disability, injury, illness or long-term mental health challenges 
• Building skills, confidence and independence 
• Support for carers, partners, children and family members 
• Work, study and community participation 

Support may be short term or ongoing, and it may change over time. 

Your support options 

There are different ways to get disability support, and it is not always obvious where to begin. 

Your options may depend on: 

• Your type of disability or health condition 
• How it affects your daily life 
• Whether it is related to military service 
• Your age, where you live and your circumstances 

Support may come from health services, community organisations, disability programs, employment services, education services or veterans’ services. 

You should be treated with dignity and respect, supported to make choices, and given information in a way you can use. 

You do not need to have everything worked out before asking for help. 

Support services in Australia 

Support can come from different services, depending on your needs, age and situation. 

Support through DVA 

Some veterans may be able to get support through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). This may include rehabilitation, equipment, in-home support and compensation for accepted service-related conditions. 

DVA rehabilitation may include help with health care, wellbeing and work goals, including returning to work. 

DVA support may sit alongside the NDIS, health services, aged care and community support. Some people may be eligible for more than one system, but the same support is usually not funded twice. 

Other support systems 

• The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), if you are eligible 
• Disability Gateway for trusted information and local services 
• My Aged Care if you are aged 65 or over, or from age 50 for some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 
• Health and community services such as GPs, allied health, mental health care, housing and transport 
• Advocacy or support to understand your rights, ask questions or make a complaint 
• Support with work, study, community participation, equipment or home modifications 

Support for carers and family 

If you are a partner, family member, carer or supporter, help may also be available for you. 

• Understanding services and support options 
• Balancing caring responsibilities with your own wellbeing 
• Accessing respite, counselling or peer support 
• Planning for future care and support needs 

Looking after yourself is an important part of supporting someone else. 

How to get support 

If you are looking for disability support, you can start by: 

• Talking to a GP or health professional about your needs 
• Using trusted disability and wellbeing services 
• Getting help to understand your options and next steps 
• Asking services what support may suit you 

Finding the right support can feel complex, especially during stressful times. Help is available, and you do not have to do this alone. 

Where to start 

If you are not sure where to begin, start with the service that best matches your situation. 

If you need general disability support 

• Disability Gateway – a good starting point for disability information, services and local support 
• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) – information about disability support if you may be eligible 
• My Aged Care – aged care services and support for older people 

If you are a veteran or family member 

• Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) – rehabilitation, compensation and other veteran support 
• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling – provides free and confidential mental health and wellbeing support including counselling, care coordination, peer support, group programs and digital health initiatives for veterans and the families of veterans

If you are a carer or need communication support 

• Carer Gateway – counselling, respite and practical support for carers 
• National Relay Service – support for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech or communication difficulties 

Key contact numbers 

You can use these contact details to find information or work out your next step. 

• Disability Gateway: 1800 643 787 
• NDIS: 1800 800 110 
• My Aged Care: 1800 200 422 
• Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA): 1800 838 372 
• Carer Gateway: 1800 422 737 
• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling: 1800 011 046 
• National Relay Service: If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech or communication difficulties, you can use the National Relay Service to make and receive calls to services. 

Glossary 

These terms may help you understand some of the services mentioned on this page. 

• NDIS: The National Disability Insurance Scheme. It provides support for some people with permanent and significant disability. 
• DVA: The Department of Veterans’ Affairs. It supports eligible veterans and some families. 
• Disability Gateway: A service that helps people find disability information, services and support in Australia. 
• My Aged Care: The main starting point for Australian Government aged care services. 
• Rehabilitation: Support that helps a person improve wellbeing, independence, everyday life or ability to work after injury or illness. 
• Service-related: Linked to military service. 
• Respite: Short-term support that gives carers a break. 
• National Relay Service: A free service that helps people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech or communication difficulties make and receive phone calls. 

As you move from the ADF to civilian life, DVA may help with benefits and supports such as: 

• Registering with MyService 
• Claims for compensation 
• Veterans’ Health Checks 
• Service Pensions 
• Non-Liability Health Care 
• DVA Rehabilitation Services 
• House loans and insurance 

When DVA may be useful 

DVA may be helpful if you want support with health care after service, or if you are looking into compensation or rehabilitation related to your service. 

Some people connect with DVA before leaving the ADF. Others do it later, when support feels more relevant or new needs come up. 

How we can help 

If you are not sure whether DVA is right for you yet, that is okay.  

We can help you understand your options, think about what support might be most useful first, and find the right information. 

This may include helping you work out what feels most important right now, such as health, money, family wellbeing, housing, work or general transition support. 

If you are not sure where to start, connect with a Veteran and Family Support Officer to get some guidance.  

Making shopping simpler 

Ordering groceries online can make everyday life easier – especially when things feel busy, stressful, or unpredictable. 

It can help save time and energy and support you to stay on top of daily needs during periods of transition or change. 

You can order groceries from your phone, tablet or computer, and choose to have groceries delivered to your home or ready for collection. 

Why it can help 

Online grocery shopping can support your wellbeing in practical ways: 

• Less stress and effort - Avoid busy shops, long queues and last-minute decisions 
• More time - Order at a time that suits you, day or night 
• Better budgeting - See your total as you shop and make changes before checking out 
• More control - Take your time choosing items without feeling rushed 

Online shopping can be especially helpful if you are: 

• adjusting to a new routine 
• managing injury, health conditions, disability or mobility challenges 
• balancing work, family or caring responsibilities 

Getting started 

If you are new to online shopping, you can start small: 

• Choose a supermarket or grocery service in your area 
• Create an account using your email address 
• Add items to your online basket 
• Choose delivery or pick-up 
• Select a time that works for you 

Most services allow you to: 

• save favourite items 
• repeat past orders 
• update your order before delivery 

Tips to make it easier 

Start with a short list 

Order a few essential items first to get comfortable with the process 

Plan meals and set a budget 

Planning ahead can help reduce waste, manage costs and make shopping quicker. 

Check delivery options and costs 

Some delivery times are lower cost or more flexible. Compare options before you check out. 

Shop safely online 

• Use trusted websites and secure payment methods 
• Create strong passwords  
• Be cautious of unexpected links, messages or deals that seem too good to be true 

If access feels challenging 

Not everyone has the same access to online services or feels confident using them. 

If this sounds like you, you could: 

• ask a family member, friend or support worker for help 
• look for community delivery services or local stores that offer phone or assisted ordering 
• check if aged care or disability supports can assist with shopping or meal preparation 
• seek local food relief services if cost is a concern 

Getting support 

If accessing food or managing groceries is becoming difficult, support is available. 

This may include: 

• community services that help with food access 
• financial counselling or budgeting support 
• local organisations that provide emergency food relief 
• aged care or disability supports that assist with shopping or meals 

Helpful Australian Government resources 

• eSafety Commissioner – help with staying safe online and protecting your personal information, and avoiding unsafe websites  
• Scamwatch – advice on identifying scams and fake online stores, and what to do if something feels wrong 
• MoneySmart – tools and tips for budgeting, meal planning and managing grocery costs  
• My Aged Care – information about in-home support, including meals and shopping 
• NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) – information about disability supports 
• Services Australia – information about payments, financial help, and support services 

Volunteering is a way to stay connected, contribute your skills and be part of something meaningful. This could be in your local community, alongside other veterans, or with organisations supporting causes you care about. 

For many veterans and families, volunteering can help build routine, purpose and connection after times of change or transition. It is also a flexible way to give back without the pressure of paid work. 

What volunteering can involve 

Volunteering looks different for everyone. It might include: 

• supporting other veterans or families 
• helping in community, sporting or emergency organisations 
• sharing skills, knowledge or lived experience 
• volunteering occasionally or on a regular basis 
• roles that are active, behind the scenes, local or online 

You can usually choose roles that fit your energy, interests and availability. 

Why volunteering can help 

Research shows that volunteering can have real benefits for veterans and families, including stronger social connection, a sense of purpose, and improved wellbeing.  

People often choose volunteering because it: 

• creates a sense of belonging and contribution 
• reduces isolation and loneliness 
• builds confidence and structure during transition 
• offers opportunities to use skills developed in Defence in new ways 
• supports identity and meaning beyond service 

For some veterans, volunteering can also be a gentle step back into work settings without the commitments of employment. 

Volunteering opportunities for veterans and families 

There are many volunteering roles that value veteran experience and understand Defence life. Opportunities may be available through: 

• veteran-led and veteran support organisations 
• emergency and community service organisations 
• sporting, recreation and wellbeing groups 
• aged care, health and community support programs 
• national and local volunteering networks 

You can also explore government-recognised pathways such as the Department of Social Services volunteering site, GoVolunteer as a national entry point, and Volunteering Gateway. If you are an eligible job seeker, some voluntary work may also be approved through Workforce Australia or Services Australia. 

Some roles are specifically designed to support other veterans or families, while others are broader community roles where your skills and experience are valued. 

Choosing the right role 

When thinking about volunteering, it can help to consider: 

• what you enjoy and what gives you energy 
• how much time you want to commit 
• whether you want social, practical or skills-based roles 
• what level of responsibility feels right for you right now 

It’s okay to start small and change roles over time. 

Help to get started 

If you’re interested in volunteering but not sure where to begin, support is available to help you: 

• explore volunteering options that suit your goals 
• connect with trusted organisations and pathways 
• find roles that are flexible, supportive and safe 
• understand how volunteering fits alongside other supports 

You do not need to have everything figured out. Taking the first step can be enough. 

An unexpected illness can affect daily life in many ways. Whether it is short term or long term, it can bring stress, uncertainty and change for you or someone close to you. 

It is normal to need time, support and space to adjust in your own way. 

How unexpected illness can affect your life 

Unexpected illness can affect many areas of wellbeing, including: 

• physical health and energy levels 
• mental and emotional wellbeing 
• work, study or daily routines 
• relationships and roles within families 
• financial security and independence 

Even when recovery is expected, a sudden loss of control or routine can be hard to manage. 

Common emotional responses 

People respond differently to illness. You may experience: 

• shock, fear or anxiety 
• frustration or anger 
• sadness, grief or loss 
• guilt or worry about others 
• relief once a diagnosis is known 

These reactions are understandable. There is no right or wrong way to feel. 

Ways to adjust to unexpected illness 

Adjusting to unexpected illness often happens gradually. Some people find the following ideas helpful. 

Understand what is happening 

• You may find it helpful to ask questions and seek clear information from trusted health professionals. 
• You might like to take notes or bring someone with you to appointments for support. 

Focus on what you can control 

• Break things down into manageable steps. 
• Identify what helps you feel steadier day to day, even in small ways. 

Be flexible with expectations 

• Recovery and adjustment are not always linear. 
• It’s okay to rest, change plans, and ask for help. 

Supporting your wellbeing during illness 

Looking after wellbeing is important during periods of illness. 

Physical support 

• Follow medical advice and attend recommended appointments. 
• Prioritise rest, nutrition and hydration within your capacity. 

Emotional support 

• Talk with someone you trust about how you’re feeling. 
• Use grounding techniques to manage stress or overwhelm. 
• Allow space for difficult emotions without judgement. 

Stay connected 

• Maintain contact with others, even if it looks different than before. 
• Let people know how they can support you. 

When illness affects someone close to you 

Supporting a partner, family member or someone close to you can be exhausting. 

• Acknowledge your own feelings and needs. 
• Accept support where possible. 
• Give yourself permission to take breaks. 

Caring for yourself is an important part of caring for others. 

Practical first steps 

If you are not sure where to start, focus on one or two small steps. 

• Talk to your GP or healthcare team. 
• Ask someone you trust to help with appointments or notes. 
• Focus on one or two things you can manage today. 
• Accept help with meals, transport or daily tasks. 
• Reach out for emotional support if things feel too hard. 

Government support options 

You may be able to get government support depending on your needs, age, health condition and caring responsibilities. 

• Medicare can help with the cost of seeing a GP, specialist, tests and some treatment. 
• Your GP can help you access mental health support, including a mental health treatment plan if you are eligible. 
• Services Australia may offer income or carer support, such as the Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment or Carer Allowance, depending on your situation. 
• The NDIS may help if illness leads to a permanent disability and you meet access requirements. 
• My Aged Care can help older people access support at home, respite care or aged care services. 

If you are not sure what support fits your situation, ask your GP, healthcare team or hospital social worker to help you understand your options. 

Support for carers 

If you are caring for someone with an illness, you may be able to get practical, emotional and financial support. What is available will depend on your situation, the needs of the person you care for, and how much care you provide. 

• Carer Payment may help if you provide constant care to someone with a medical condition, disability or age-related care needs, and you cannot work full time because of your caring role. 
• Carer Allowance is a supplementary payment that may help with the extra costs of providing daily care and support. 
• Some people may be able to receive both Carer Payment and Carer Allowance, depending on their circumstances. 
• Carer Gateway can connect carers with counselling, coaching, peer support, skills courses and respite services. 
• Respite support may help if you need a break, have your own health needs, or need support in an emergency. 
• You may also be able to get concessions, annual supplements or other payments depending on your circumstances. 
• The person you care for may also be eligible for their own support through Services Australia, the NDIS, My Aged Care or other health and community services. 

Support for young carers 

If you are under 25 and help care for a parent, sibling, other family member or friend, you may be a young carer. This can be a lot to carry, especially when you are also trying to manage school, study, friendships or everyday life. 

You do not have to work it out on your own. Carer Gateway can help young carers access information, counselling, peer support and respite. Some young carers may also be able to get support through their school, training provider or other youth services. 

Adults supporting young carers can help by checking in gently, noticing signs of stress, and helping them stay connected to school, friends and other supports. Feeling seen, listened to and supported can make a big difference. 

If you are not sure what support you or the person you care for can access, ask your GP, healthcare team, hospital social worker or Services Australia for guidance. You can also contact Carer Gateway for help understanding what services may be available. 

When extra support may help 

If illness or its effects start to feel too hard to manage, extra support can help. 

Consider reaching out to: 

• your GP or healthcare team 
• counselling or peer support services 
• support services you trust 

Support can be practical, emotional or social — and often a combination of all three. 

Remember 

Unexpected illness can change plans, roles and routines, but it does not change your value. Adjusting takes time, and support is available. 

Support during a complex time 

If you or someone you care about is involved with the justice system, support is available. This page explains some of the challenges you may face, the support that may help, and where to start. 

Being involved with the justice system can be stressful. This may include: 

• court processes 
• custody or detention 
• community-based orders or supervision 

For veterans and families of veterans, this may happen alongside other major life changes, such as leaving Defence, managing health issues, or changes in family life. 

You do not have to manage this on your own. Support can help you understand what is happening and what to do next. 

Why support matters 

Justice system involvement can affect many parts of your life, including: 

• mental and emotional wellbeing 
• housing and stability 
• family relationships 
• employment or education 
• connection to community 

The right support can reduce stress, help you understand your situation, and make it easier to plan your next steps. 

If things feel overwhelming 

It is normal to feel uncertain, stressed or overwhelmed when dealing with the justice system. 

It’s okay to: 

• ask questions 
• take things one step at a time 
• seek support early 

You are not expected to handle everything by yourself. 

What support can look like 

Support will depend on your situation and what matters most to you right now. 

It might include: 

• Understanding the process 
  Information to help you understand what is happening and what to expect 
• Navigating services 
  Help connecting with legal, health, housing or community supports 
• Maintaining wellbeing 
  Access to mental health, counselling or wellbeing services 
• Staying connected 
  Support to maintain relationships with family, children or community 
• Planning for the future 
  Support to prepare for life after court processes or custody 

Supporting families and children 

Justice system involvement can affect partners, children, carers and other family members, not just the person going through the process. 

Children may need support to feel safe, informed and connected during times of change. This can include: 

• reassurance that they are safe and supported 
• clear, age-appropriate explanations about what is happening 
• consistent routines where possible, such as school, meals and bedtime 
• help staying connected to trusted adults, family, culture and community 
• extra support if they are showing signs of stress, worry or behavioural changes 

Families and carers may also need support for their own wellbeing. This may include help with managing stress, maintaining routines, talking with children, navigating services, or getting practical support from community, health or family services. 

Support from states and territories 

State and territory governments may provide support before release, during community supervision, and after a person returns to the community.  

What is available will vary depending on where someone lives, whether they are in custody or on a community-based order, and what services operate locally. 

What support may include 

• pre-release planning and help preparing for release 
• case management or reintegration support 
• help with housing, homelessness and practical needs 
• mental health, alcohol and other drug, and wellbeing support 
• support with education, training, employment and daily living skills 
• links to parole, community corrections and local community services 
• in some places, targeted support for women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people with complex needs 

Support by state and territory 

• ACT: Support may include correctional and community programs that help people leaving custody, as well as support for families. 
• New South Wales: Support may include throughcare, housing assistance, family counselling, alcohol and other drug support, and other services that help people settle back into the community. 
• Northern Territory: Available support may include rehabilitation, community corrections, skills development and links to community-based services. 
• Queensland: People may be able to access support before and after release, including help with housing, parole applications, connecting with services, and links to mental health, education and counselling support. 
• South Australia: Support may include release planning, referrals, supervision, and help with accommodation, work readiness, transport and other practical needs. 
• Tasmania: Support may include release and parole processes, along with community services that help with practical needs and family support after release. 
• Victoria: Transition planning may begin in custody and continue after release, with support that can include housing, mental health, alcohol and other drugs, family connection, and employment. 
• Western Australia: Some services may support people to reconnect with family and community, alongside help with housing, education and employment. 

Services, eligibility rules and program availability can change over time. It can help to check current information with corrective services or a local support organisation in your state or territory. 

If you are preparing for release or supporting someone through this transition, ask corrective services, a case worker, parole officer or community organisation what support is available in your area. 

Getting support 

These steps can help you get started. 

• Start by identifying what you need help with most right now, such as legal advice, emotional support, housing, money, or support for your family. 
• Contact one trusted service or professional first, even if you are not sure where to begin. 
• Write down your questions and any important dates, letters or documents before appointments or calls. 
• If your needs are urgent, seek help as early as possible rather than waiting for things to get worse. 

Types of support 

• Legal and advocacy services 
  For help understanding your rights, court processes, legal options or available supports. 
• Health and mental wellbeing providers 
  For support with stress, anxiety, trauma, alcohol and other drugs, or other health concerns. 
• Housing, financial or community organisations 
  For help with stable housing, money pressures, daily needs, or practical support during a difficult time. 
• Transition and reintegration services 
  For support with planning ahead, reconnecting with community, and preparing for life after court processes or custody. 

Veteran community specific support 

• DVA support and information 
  For help understanding available supports, health care, rehabilitation, financial assistance, and services for veterans and families. 
• Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling 
  For free, confidential, military-aware counselling and mental health support for veterans and their families. 
• Veteran advocacy and ex-service organisations 
  For help understanding entitlements, connecting with services, and getting practical support through organisations such as the RSL and other veteran support services. 

You do not need to work everything out on your own. Reaching out early can make it easier to understand your options and get the right support. 

Helping children through loss and change 

If you are supporting a child through grief, this page explains what grief can look like in children, how you can help, and when to seek extra support. 

Grief is a natural response to loss. 

For children, this can include: 

• the death of someone important to them 
• being separated from family or friends 
• moving to a new home or school 
• changes during or after transition from Defence 

Every child experiences grief differently. There is no right or wrong way for a child to feel or respond. 

With time, patience and support, children can learn to understand their feelings and find ways to cope. 

Signs a child may be grieving 

Children do not always show grief in the same way as adults. 

You might notice: 

• changes in behaviour or mood 
• trouble concentrating or sleeping 
• becoming more withdrawn or more reactive 
• asking questions about what happened again and again 
• going back to earlier behaviours, such as needing more reassurance 

Some children may seem unaffected at times. This is normal. Children often move in and out of grief. 

Why support can help 

Grief can feel confusing or overwhelming for children, especially if they do not have the words to explain what they are feeling. 

Support can help children: 

• feel safe and reassured 
• understand what is happening 
• express their feelings in their own way 
• build confidence to cope over time 

For children in veteran families, grief may happen at the same time as other changes, which can make things harder. 

Evidence-based supports and interventions 

Research shows most grieving children are supported by safe relationships, honest information, steady routines and consistent care from the people around them. When families understand grief and respond in reassuring ways, children often cope better over time. 

Some children and families may benefit from additional support, such as: 

• support that helps children and caregivers understand grief and common reactions  
• guidance for parents and carers on listening, reassurance, communication and family routines  
• coping and emotion regulation skills that children can practise with support from trusted adults  
• grief-informed counselling that helps children and families talk about the loss, remember the person and adjust over time  
• trauma-focused therapy when grief is linked with traumatic events, frightening memories or strong avoidance  
• group programs that help children and families feel less alone and connect with others who have had similar experiences 

The right support depends on the child, family, culture and circumstances. Approaches that include caregivers and build on existing strengths and routines tend to be most effective. 

Families also bring important cultural and community strengths, including beliefs, rituals and connections that help children make sense of loss. For some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, connection to family, kinship, community, Country, culture and Elders plays an important role in healing. 

There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Many children are supported most by feeling safe, understood and connected. Formal intervention is not always needed, and support is most helpful when it fits the child’s needs and readiness. 

Ways you can support a child 

Small, consistent actions can make a difference. 

Be open and honest 

• Use simple, age-appropriate language 
• Answer questions as they come up 

Listen and reassure 

• Let them share what they are feeling in their own time 
• Reassure them that they are safe and supported 

Keep routines where you can 

• Familiar routines can help children feel more stable and secure 

Allow different ways of expressing feelings 

• Talking, drawing, playing or spending quiet time can all help children process grief 

Stay patient 

• Grief can come and go, and a child’s response may change over time 

When a child may need extra support 

Sometimes a child’s grief may feel harder to manage, especially if it is affecting daily life. 

You might notice: 

• ongoing changes in behaviour or mood 
• difficulty coping at school or with daily activities 
• increased anxiety or withdrawal 

Seek extra support if grief is affecting the child’s daily life, school, sleep, relationships or sense of safety. 

Where to get support 

You do not have to manage this alone. 

Support may be available through: 

• GPs or paediatricians, who can assess needs and refer you to other services 
• school support staff, counsellors or psychologists 
• grief counselling or bereavement services for children and families 
• child psychologists or mental health professionals with experience in grief and trauma 
• family support services that work with both children and caregivers 

Losing someone to suicide can be very hard. You may feel shock, sadness, anger, confusion, or many different emotions at once. 

There is no right or wrong way to grieve. Everyone responds differently, and support is there when you are ready. 

You are not alone 

A suicide loss can affect family, friends, workmates, and the wider veteran community. 

It can feel lonely or hard to talk about. Reaching out, even in a small way, can help over time. 

Ways to get support 

Support after suicide can look different for each person. It may include: 

• Counselling or other mental health support 
• Peer support from people with similar experiences 
• Practical help during a hard time 
• Ongoing support for your wellbeing 

You may want help straight away, or later on. You can get support at your own pace. 

Support for veterans and families of veterans

Veterans and the families of veterans can get different types of support, including:

• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling, which provides free and confidential mental health and wellbeing support including counselling, care coordination, peer support, group programs, and digital health initiatives
• Peer support programs, led by people with lived experience of military service, transition, and mental health challenges, offering understanding through shared experience  
• Case management, including help to connect with services
• Bereavement payments and other support, for eligible family members

There are also online communities where veterans and the families of veterans can connect with others in a safe and supported space.

Connecting with others 

The effects of suicide can reach beyond close family to friends, units, and the wider veteran community. 

It may help to: 

• Stay in touch with other people 
• Go to a support group or peer program 
• Take part in activities that help you remember and heal 

There is no right or wrong way to grieve. 

Looking after yourself 

Grief can affect how you feel, think, and cope each day. 

You could: 

• Talk to someone you trust 
• Get help from a health professional 
• Take small steps to care for yourself each day 

It is okay to ask for help and take things one day at a time. 

What helps after a suicide loss 

Evidence-based postvention guidance suggests that people are best supported when care is timely, flexible, practical, culturally safe, and matched to their needs over time. 

• Offer support early, and keep it available over time, because needs can change. 
• Provide clear information and practical help as well as emotional support. 
• Make it easy to find the right service, without sending people from place to place. 
• Offer support that fits the person’s culture, family, community, and preferences. 
• Include peer support and connection with others who have lived experience, when this feels right for the person. 
• Use safe, respectful, non-stigmatising language when talking about suicide and grief. 
• Pay extra attention to people who may be at higher risk, including those who are deeply affected, isolated, or already under stress. 

Postvention services in Australia 

If you have been affected by suicide, there are services in Australia that can offer emotional support, practical help, and connection to other support options. 

• StandBy Support After Suicide – 1300 727 247 provides free support for people and communities bereaved or impacted by suicide, including families, friends, witnesses, and first responders. 
• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling – 1800 011 046 provides free and confidential mental health and wellbeing support including counselling, care coordination, peer support, group programs and digital health initiatives for veterans and families of veterans.
• Postvention Australia – 1300 02 4357 provides information, suicide bereavement resources, and a service directory to help people find support. 
• Lifeline – 13 11 14 provides 24/7 crisis support for anyone feeling overwhelmed or having trouble coping, by phone, chat, or text. 
• Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 provides free 24/7 counselling by phone and online for people affected by suicide, including people bereaved by suicide. 
• Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 provides mental health support, information, and counselling options for people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, or distress. 

Get help now 

If you feel overwhelmed or are finding it hard to cope, you can contact: 

• Lifeline – 13 11 14 (24/7) 
• Open Arms – 1800 011 046 (24/7) 

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000. 

Support matters 

Helping people after suicide is an important part of caring for veterans, the families of veterans, and communities. 

Superannuation, or super, is money saved during your working life to support you in retirement. 

For veterans and families of veterans, super can be complex, especially when it is affected by ADF service, transition from Defence, medical discharge, or DVA payments. 

Understanding how your super works can help you make informed decisions about your financial future. 

This page explains the basics and where to go for more information. 

On this page 

• How super works for ADF members and veterans 
• ADF Super 
• When you leave the ADF 
• Help to understand super 
• Getting financial advice 

How super works for ADF members and veterans 

Most people who serve in the ADF are part of a Defence superannuation scheme managed by the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC). 

The scheme you are in depends on when you joined the ADF. 

ADF superannuation schemes include: 

• ADF Super – for ADF members who joined on or after 1 July 2016 
• Military Superannuation and Benefits Scheme (MSBS) – for members who joined between 1 October 1991 and 30 June 2016 
• Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits scheme (DFRDB) – for members who joined before 1 October 1991 

Each scheme has different rules about: 

• how much is paid in 
• how your benefits are worked out 
• when and how you can access your super 
• support paid if you become ill, injured or die 

You can find more information about your scheme by contacting your superannuation company directly. The ADF Financial Services Consumer Centre have some useful information, videos and links on their website to support you to build a better understanding of how you can make your super work for you more effectively.

ADF Super 

ADF Super is the current super scheme for new ADF members. It works in a similar way to many super funds outside Defence. 

Under ADF Super: 

• Defence contributes 16.4% of your ordinary time earnings to your super while you are serving 
• your balance grows based on contributions and investment returns 
• death and invalidity insurance is provided while you are serving, with options available after separation 

In most cases, your ADF Super account stays with you when you leave the ADF. 

When you leave the ADF 

When you leave the ADF, you may have questions about what happens to your super. 

• whether you can combine multiple super accounts 
• how your super works with a civilian job 
• what happens to insurance attached to your super 
• how super works alongside DVA payments or pensions 

Understanding your super is an important part of planning for life after service. 

Help to understand super 

MoneySmart is an Australian Government website run by ASIC. The MoneySmart Superannuation Guide explains how super works in plain English. 

• how super is paid and invested 
• combining super accounts 
• choosing investment options 
• when super can be accessed 

Getting financial advice 

Super decisions can affect your finances for years to come. It may help to get professional financial advice if you are: 

• transitioning out of the ADF 
• medically discharging 
• making decisions about retirement income 
• working out how your super fits with DVA payments or pensions 

MoneySmart and the ADF Financial Services Consumer Centre websites have some really helpful information to assist you in choosing a financial advisor that is best suited to your needs. MoneySmart also explains how to choose a licensed financial adviser. 

Assistance for ADF members seeking professional financial advice

For ADF members who require professional financial advice, up to $1,000 towards financial adviser fees to assist them with financial decisions. 

Access to Financial Advice remains for up to 24 months post-transition in accordance with PACMAN Chapter 2, Part 2. Financial Advice cannot be used for routine tax, mortgage brokering, conveyancing or accounting services. 

The chosen financial provider must hold an Australian Financial Services License to access this payment.

If you’re struggling or feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. Support is available now. 

If reading this page feels hard right now, you can go straight to the support options below. 

If you need immediate help 

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000. 

You can also contact: 

• Lifeline — call 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support. 
• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling — call 1800 011 046 for free 24/7 support for current and ex-serving ADF members and their families. 
• StandBy Support After Suicide — call 1300 727 247 for support after a suicide. 
• Beyond Blue — call 1300 22 4636 for mental health support. 

These services are confidential. Some are available 24/7. 

Signs you may need support 

Thoughts of suicide or feeling overwhelmed can happen for many reasons. It does not mean there is something wrong with you. 

For veterans and the families of veterans, these feelings may be linked to: 

• transitioning from service 
• changes in identity or purpose 
• mental or physical health challenges 
• stress, relationship pressures or major life changes 

Everyone’s experience is different. 

Ways to get support 

Talking to someone you trust or contacting a support service can make a real difference. You can also ask whether a service has been independently reviewed against national suicide prevention quality standards. 

Support options include: 

• talk to a GP or mental health professional 
• contact Open Arms for free and confidential mental health and wellbeing support including counselling, care coordination, peer support, group programs and digital health initiatives for veterans and the families of veterans
• use a suicide prevention service such as The Way Back Support Service or StandBy Support After Suicide, where available 
• talk to someone you trust, such as a friend, partner, family member or peer 

Examples of support services 

Crisis and early support 

• Anglicare SA Suicide Prevention Service offers specialised support for people after a recent suicide attempt or suicidal distress. 

Aftercare 

• The Way Back Support Service provides non-clinical support in the first few months after a suicide attempt or suicidal crisis, often through referral pathways linked to hospital or health services. 
• The Suicide Prevention for Seniors Program provides support for older people experiencing distress, isolation or major life changes. 

Support after a suicide 

• StandBy Support After Suicide provides free support for people, families and communities bereaved or impacted by suicide. 

There is no right way to ask for help. Small steps matter. 

Supporting someone else 

If you are worried about a veteran or someone close to them, you can: 

• start a conversation — even a simple “Are you okay?” can help 
• listen without judgement 
• encourage them to get support 
• stay connected and check in when you can 

If you believe someone is at immediate risk, call 000. 

After a suicide 

Losing someone to suicide can have a deep impact. 

Support is available for families, friends and communities after a suicide. Services such as StandBy Support After Suicide can help with emotional support, practical guidance and connecting you with other services. 

• counselling and clinical support 
• practical support and entitlements, if eligible 
• ongoing wellbeing support, including through accredited postvention services 

Some services have been independently reviewed against national suicide prevention quality standards. This can help you identify services that meet recognised safety and quality expectations. 

You do not have to navigate this alone. 

It’s okay to ask for help early 

You do not need to wait for things to get worse before asking for help. Getting support early can make a difference.