Healthcare that respects culture, identity and lived experience 

For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, health and wellbeing are closely connected to culture, Country, community and identity. 

Healthcare is not just about treating illness. It is also about feeling safe, respected and understood. 

For First Nations veterans and families of veterans, culturally safe healthcare can support both physical and emotional wellbeing, especially during times of transition or change. 

For some First Nations veterans and families of veterans, health and wellbeing can also be shaped by experiences of racism, trauma, loss, disconnection and the ongoing effects of colonisation. 

Healthcare can work better when services understand both military experience and the importance of culture, family, kin, community and Country. 

Why feeling safe in healthcare matters 

Everyone should feel safe and supported when accessing healthcare. 

For First Nations people, culturally safe care can mean: 

• being listened to and understood 
• having culture, identity and experiences respected 
• feeling comfortable asking questions and making decisions 
• accessing care that reflects individual and community needs 

When healthcare feels safe and respectful, it can make it easier to seek support early and stay connected to care. 

What culturally safe care may look like for you 

Culturally safe care may include: 

• Choice and control 
  Being able to choose where you go and who provides your care 
• Respect for culture and identity 
  Care that recognises the importance of culture, family, community and Country 
• Understanding your experiences 
  Including the impacts of service, transition and life changes 
• Supportive environments 
  Spaces where you feel comfortable and safe to speak openly 

There is no single way this looks. It depends on what feels right for you. 

You may want care that includes family, kin or a trusted support person. 

You may also want to ask if a service has Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, liaison officers, or experience supporting First Nations veterans and families of veterans. 

If a service does not feel safe, respectful or right for you, it is okay to look for another option. 

How to find healthcare that feels right for you 

You have options when it comes to finding healthcare that feels safe, respectful and right for you. 

Some services may feel like a better fit for you than others. 

Options that may support First Nations veterans include: 

• Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, which can provide culturally safe and holistic care close to community 
• Department of Veterans’ Affairs health care and support services, which may be available based on service eligibility 
• Open Arms 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. 
• local GPs, Aboriginal health workers and mainstream health services that provide culturally safe care and understand veteran and family of veteran experiences 

If you are eligible for DVA support, you may be able to choose from different providers, including Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, GPs and other services that feel right for you. 

You might choose to: 

• access services in your local community 
• seek providers who understand your background and experiences 
• involve family, kin or trusted people in your care 

It can help to ask questions before your appointment so you can decide whether a service feels culturally safe for you. 

You might ask how the service supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, whether family or kin can be involved, and what choices you have about your care. 

What to do if there are barriers to care 

Sometimes it can be harder to access healthcare. 

Barriers to care can include: 

• location or distance 
• cost 
• previous experiences with services 
• navigating a complex system 
• not feeling culturally safe 
• worry about being judged, misunderstood or not listened to 
• difficulty finding services that understand both First Nations perspectives and veteran and family of veteran experiences 

Support may be available to help you find the right services and options for your situation. 

Support from a trusted person, local service or community organisation may make it easier to take the next step. 

Ways to support your wellbeing 

Looking after your health is personal. 

Looking after your wellbeing might include: 

• regular check-ups with a GP or health service 
• seeking support early if something doesn’t feel right 
• combining clinical care with cultural connection and community support 

For many First Nations people, wellbeing includes both medical care and connection to culture and community. 

Strength, resilience, cultural knowledge and connection can all play an important role in wellbeing. 

Where to get support 

If you’re not sure where to start, you do not have to do it on your own. 

You might choose to begin with a GP, an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, or another provider that feels right for you. 

If it would help, you can ask a family member, Elder, friend, kin or another trusted person to support you to make contact or go with you to an appointment. 

You can connect with organisations that understand First Nations health and wellbeing and ask for help to find your way through the system if it feels overwhelming. 

Connection to culture, Country and community can be an important source of strength and wellbeing for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. These connections can shape identity, belonging and a sense of purpose, and may be especially important during times of change or transition. 

For First Nations veterans and families of veterans, experiences such as service, posting, injury, transition out of Defence, or changes in family life can sometimes affect connection to culture or community. Everyone’s experience is different, and it is okay for connection to look different from one person to the next. 

At a glance 

• Connection to culture, Country, community and identity can play an important role in wellbeing. 
• Connection can look different for each person, and there is no right way to connect or reconnect. 
• Healing and reconnection may take time, especially after trauma, loss, racism, displacement or major life changes. 
• Culturally safe, community-led and Aboriginal Community Controlled organisations can offer support. 
• Support should respect personal choice, lived experience and self-determination. 

Why it matters 

For many First Nations people, wellbeing is deeply connected to: 

• culture and identity 
• Country and place 
• family, kin and community 
• shared knowledge, stories and traditions 
• Connection can provide strength, grounding and support across all stages of life. 
• When connection is disrupted by relocation, service demands, injury or major life transitions, people may feel loss, disconnection or uncertainty. 
• Supporting connection is part of supporting whole-of-person and whole-of-family wellbeing. 

What connection can mean 

Connection can mean different things to different people. It may involve: 

• spending time on Country or reconnecting with places that are important to you 
• strengthening relationships with family, kin and community 
• engaging in cultural practices, language or traditions 
• learning, relearning or deepening understanding of culture and identity 
• connecting with Elders or trusted community members 
• taking time, space and choice in how and when connection happens 

All of these experiences are personal. Some people may be actively seeking reconnection, while others may prefer to reconnect quietly, gradually, or not at all at certain times. 

Connection and healing 

• Social and emotional wellbeing can be shaped by connection to culture, Country, community, spirituality, family and identity. 
• These connections can support strength, comfort, belonging and healing. 
• Reconnection may be affected by trauma, loss, racism, displacement, family separation or time away from community or Country. 
• Healing and reconnection may take time, and there is no right way to do it. 
• Support can come through community-led and Aboriginal Community Controlled organisations. 
• Connection can strengthen identity, resilience and hope for individuals, families and communities. 

Getting support 

If you would like support to strengthen or reconnect with culture or community, many people choose to seek help through community-led, culturally safe organisations. 

These may include: 

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community organisations 
• cultural, family or social support services 
• health, legal or wellbeing organisations led by First Nations people 
• local networks connected to Elders or Traditional Owners 
• for people connected with Defence, support may also include Defence Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander networks, mentoring, and Defence member and family support services that provide information, referrals and connection with local services or community groups 

Choice and self-determination 

• Connection should not be rushed or prescribed. 
• Everyone’s journey is their own. 
• Support should respect lived experience, personal choice and self-determination. 

You decide: 

• what connection means to you 
• who you engage with 
• when and how you seek support  

Ex-Service Organisations (ESOs) are groups that support veterans and their families. Many are run by people who understand Defence life, leaving service, and service-related challenges. 

An ESO can help you find support, information and connection — whether you need practical help, social contact, or someone who understands what you’re going through. 

What Ex-Service Organisations do 

ESOs are different, but many can help with: 

• advocacy and help with claims and entitlements 
• wellbeing support, peer support and community connection 
• social connection and activities 
• support for partners, families, widows and widowers 
• assistance during transition or times of change 

Some organisations support specific groups of people, service backgrounds, conflicts or age groups. Others support a wide range of people in the veteran community. 

Who can connect with an ESO 

Ex-Service Organisations may support: 

• current and former ADF members 
• partners, spouses and families of veterans 
• children or dependants of veterans 
• war widows and widowers 

You do not need to be a member to get in touch. Many ESOs are happy to talk with you about what support may help. 

How to find an Ex-Service Organisation 

Here are a few ways to find an ESO that may suit your needs: 

• search online for an Ex-Service Organisation in your local area 
• check the Department of Veterans’ Affairs list of recognised Ex-Service Organisations 
• ask other veterans or families about organisations they’ve found helpful 
• connect through a Veteran and Family Hub or community service 

You can also contact more than one organisation to see which one feels right for you. 

How to choose an Ex-Service Organisation 

ESOs offer different kinds of support. You may want to ask what help they offer, who they help, whether you need to be a member, and whether they support people in person, by phone or online. 

Questions to ask an ESO 

• What kind of support do you offer? 
• Who do you support? 
• Do I need to be a member to get help? 
• Is there a cost? 
• Do you offer support in person, by phone, or online? 
• Do you have accredited advocates? 

Finding an accredited advocate 

If you need help with claims or entitlements, some ESOs have trained accredited advocates. 

You can search the Advocate Register to find an accredited advocate in your area or through an organisation that suits you. 

Choosing what’s right for you 

Everyone’s needs are different. It’s okay to: 

• take your time finding the right organisation 
• ask questions about the support available 
• step back if something doesn’t feel like the right fit 
• reconnect later if your needs change 

Support should work for you. 

Getting support to connect 

If you’re not sure where to start, support is available to help you find an organisation and connect with the right services. 

A General Practitioner, or GP, is also called a local doctor or family doctor. A GP can help with many health concerns for people of all ages.  

GPs typically act as the first point of contact for patients within the healthcare system and provide ongoing care. They are trained in diagnosis and treatment, prevention and management of both acute and chronic conditions, as well as coordination of health care arrangements. 

Your GP will decide whether you need to see another health professional, and they will refer you to a medical specialist or allied health professional if you need specialised care. 

Some GPs have extra training or special interests. For example, some focus on pregnancy, immunisation or veteran-centric care.

For most non-emergency health problems, a GP is the best place to start. It can help to see the same GP over time so they get to know you and your health history.

1. Ask people you trust 

2. Make a short list of GPs near you. 

   You can ask family, friends, colleagues or another health professional if they know a GP who listens well or understands the kind of care you need. 

3. Search online 

   You can use the healthdirect service finder to look for a GP in your area. You can search by location and filter results by things like bulk billing, opening hours or parking. For example, you might look for a GP close to home or a clinic that is open after work. 

4. Check the details before you book 

   Before you book, check where the clinic is, how easy it is to get to, whether they are taking new patients, and what the fees are.  If you have a DVA Gold Card or White Card, you may want to check if they accept the veteran card.  

   Bulk billing means the doctor bills Medicare directly, so there will be no out-of-pocket costs if you are eligible. Not all clinics bulk bill, so it is a good idea to ask when you book.

   If you think you will need more time, ask for a longer appointment. You can also ask if there will be any out-of-pocket cost.

5. Decide if the GP is right for you 

   Your first appointment can help you decide if the GP is a good fit. If you feel listened to and comfortable asking questions, you may want to keep seeing them. If not, it is okay to try another GP. 

Checklist: questions to ask after your first visit 

• Do I feel comfortable with this GP? 
• Do they listen to what I have to say? 
• Do I feel comfortable asking questions? 
• Does this GP understand my cultural needs? 
• Does this GP allow me to choose treatments that suit my beliefs? 
• Can I make a longer appointment if I need one? 
• Is this GP easy for me to get to? 
• Do the clinic's opening hours suit me? 
• Does the clinic's payment plan suit me? 

What if I need to see a new health professional? 

You may need to see a new health professional if you: 

• move to a new area, including for work or service reasons 
• do not want to keep seeing your current health professional 
• need help with a different health problem 
• want a second opinion 

If you change health professionals, it is important to share your health information with your new health professional. This can help them understand your health history and give you the right care. 

My Health Record is a secure online summary of your key health information. You and your health professionals can use it when needed, including in an emergency. 

• doctors 
• hospitals 
• other health professionals 

Relevant supports 

Veteran-specific supports 

• ADF Family Health Program – What Can You Claim?: Helps eligible families of current serving ADF members understand which GP, specialist, diagnostic and allied health costs they may be able to claim through the ADF Family Health Program.   
• Veteran Card – Department of Veterans' Affairs: Explains Veteran Cards and can help veterans understand what health care and related support they may be eligible for through DVA.   

Costs and concessions 

• Concession and health care cards – Services Australia: Shows the different concession and health care cards available and how they can help with cheaper medicines and some health costs.  
• Bulk billing – Medicare – Services Australia: Explains what bulk billing means, when you may not have to pay for a medical service, and how to look for bulk billing providers.  

Finding a doctor or health professional 

• How to find the right health professional – healthdirect: Offers practical advice on choosing a health professional, what to check before you book, and how to decide if they are right for you.  
• Find a doctor and seek medical help – Services Australia: Explains how to find a doctor, use telehealth, and access affordable care and Medicare services.  

Family and children 

• Kids Health Info: GPs – choosing and visiting a family doctor: Provides parent-friendly advice on choosing a family doctor for children and getting the most from GP visits.  

Looking after your wellbeing during transition does not mean doing everything perfectly. It can mean noticing change, understanding what you need and getting support if and when it feels right for you. 

Transition can include changes such as starting a new job, moving house, changes in family responsibilities or settling into a new routine. 

These changes can affect your wellbeing, identity, routine, relationships, employment and family life.  It is common to feel stress or uncertainty during this time. This does not mean something is wrong – it can be a natural response to a significant life change.  

How transition can affect wellbeing 

It is common to feel a mix of emotions during transition, including relief, pride, sadness, hope and uncertainty. 

These feelings may be linked to changes in routine, identity, family life, finances or learning new civilian systems, for example making sense of who you are after service. 

If you would like support, Open Arms offers free and confidential counselling and mental health support. 

Some people also find spiritual or pastoral support helpful. You can read about chaplaincy support, including the Veterans’ Chaplaincy Program in participating locations. 

What can help during change 

Evidence shows that small, regular actions such as keeping a routine, protecting sleep, staying active and staying connected can support wellbeing during change. There is no single right way to do this. What helps will depend on your situation, your health and the support around you. 

• Keep a simple routine. Regular times for sleep, meals, movement and daily tasks can help life feel more manageable, for example when starting a new job, moving house or settling into a new routine. 
• Protect your sleep. Sleep affects mood, energy and concentration. Small habits like limiting caffeine later in the day and having a wind-down routine can help. 
• Stay active in ways that work for you. Gentle movement such as walking, stretching or sport can support both physical and mental wellbeing. 
• Stay connected. Talking with trusted people, peers, family, community or spiritual supports can help reduce stress and isolation, for example while settling into a new role, learning new systems or adjusting to life after service. 
• Take things one step at a time. Breaking tasks into smaller steps can make change feel less overwhelming, for example when learning a new job, organising a move, managing new family responsibilities or making sense of who you are after service. 
• Notice early signs of stress. Changes in sleep, mood, motivation or relationships can be a sign that extra support may help, for example if a new job or new routine is leaving you feeling worn down. 
• Reach out early. You do not have to wait for things to get worse before getting support. 

Looking after physical health 

Changes in routine can affect sleep, energy, movement and general health. Small steps can help over time. These pages may help: 

• Body movement: practical ways to stay active during transition, including community sport and recreation. 
• Sleep hygiene: everyday habits that can support better sleep. 

Retirement planning is about preparing for how you will support yourself when you stop work or reduce your hours. It can help you understand your options, make informed decisions and feel more prepared for the future. 

For veterans and families of veterans, retirement planning can include extra factors such as ADF service, military and civilian superannuation, DVA payments, health changes, or retiring earlier than expected. 

You can start planning at any time. Even small steps can make retirement feel more manageable. 

What’s on this page 

• What retirement planning involves 
• Retirement planning for veterans and families of veterans 
• Planning for unexpected retirement 
• Tools to help you plan for retirement 
• Other trusted retirement planning resources 
• When to seek financial advice 

What retirement planning involves 

Retirement planning can involve thinking about: 

• when you might want, or need, to retire 
• how much income you may need in retirement 
• different sources of income, including superannuation, pensions or other payments 
• living costs, housing and healthcare needs 
• how unexpected changes, such as illness or injury, could affect your plans 

Planning ahead can help you understand where you are now, what you may need later, and what steps you can take next. 

Retirement planning for veterans and families of veterans 

Veterans and families of veterans may need to consider factors that do not affect everyone in the same way, including: 

• retiring earlier due to injury or health impacts 
• receiving superannuation through ADF-specific schemes 
• receiving DVA payments or pensions alongside super 
• periods of civilian and ADF employment 

These factors can affect when you can access retirement income and how different payments may work together. 

Planning for unexpected retirement 

Not all retirements happen as planned. Injury, illness or caring responsibilities can mean leaving work earlier than expected. 

Planning ahead can help you feel more prepared if your circumstances change. It can also help you understand what support and income options may be available. 

Tools to help you plan for retirement 

MoneySmart provides free tools and information such as the MoneySmart guide and  MoneySmart Retirement Planner to help you plan for retirement.  

You can use these tools to: 

• estimate how much money you may need in retirement 
• understand when you might be able to access superannuation 
• see how superannuation and the Age Pension can work together 
• explore different retirement scenarios 

Other trusted retirement planning resources 

These official resources can help you learn more about retirement income, superannuation and support services. 

• Services Australia 
  Find information about the Age Pension and the Financial Information Service. 
• Australian Taxation Office (ATO) 
  Learn more about superannuation and planning for retirement. 
• Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) 
  Find information about pensions, compensation and payments for veterans and families via the DVA website. 
• Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC) 
  Find information about ADF and Australian Government superannuation schemes via the CSC website.  

You may want to seek professional advice if your situation is more complex or you are unsure which options are right for you. 

When to seek financial advice 

Financial advice may be helpful if you are: 

• approaching retirement age 
• transitioning earlier than planned 
• managing complex superannuation or pension arrangements 
• balancing DVA payments, super and other income sources 

MoneySmart also explains how to choose a licensed financial adviser and understand your rights and protections. 

Choosing a financial adviser 

You can learn what to look for in a licensed financial adviser and how to check their credentials through MoneySmart – Choosing a Financial Adviser. 

You can also look for a licensed financial adviser through the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) Financial Advisers Register. 

Respite care gives carers a short break while the person they care for continues to get support. 

It can help when caring becomes hard to manage or when extra help is needed for a short time. It can be planned ahead or used during illness, stress or sudden change. 

What respite care can look like 

Respite care can look different depending on your needs. It may include: 

• Support at home – someone comes to your home so you can go to an appointment or take a break. 
• Short stays away from home – care is provided somewhere else for a short time, such as a weekend or while you recover from illness. 
• Emergency respite – support is arranged quickly if something changes suddenly, such as illness or a family emergency. 

Respite can last for a few hours, a few days, or longer, depending on your situation. 

Why respite care is important 

Caring for someone can affect your health and wellbeing over time. Respite care can help by: 

• Giving carers time to rest and recover 
• Supporting the health and wellbeing of carers and the person receiving care 
• Reducing stress and burnout 
• Helping people stay at home for longer, where possible 

Taking a break is not a failure — it’s an important part of sustainable care. 

Respite care for veterans and families of veterans 

Veterans and families of veterans may need respite care during recovery, disability, ageing or times of change. Support that understands military life and family experiences can make a real difference. 

Respite care may help families: 

• Balance caring with work, health and family life. 
• Get support during times of change, such as returning home from hospital or moving into aged care. 
• Protect connection, dignity and wellbeing during hard times. 

For carers 

If you’re a carer, respite care can help you: 

• Take time for your own health and wellbeing. 
• Stay connected to family, work and community. 
• Continue caring in a way that is sustainable over time. 

Support for carers is an important part of supporting veterans and families. 

Getting support 

If you’re thinking about respite care, it may help to: 

• Look at respite options that suit your needs, such as help at home, day programs or short stays away from home. 
• Find out what support is available through carer services, aged care services or veteran supports. 
• Talk with your GP, a support worker, a support group or someone you trust. 
• Ask for help early if caring is becoming too much. 

Government-funded respite options 

• Carer Gateway may help some carers get planned respite or emergency respite. 
• My Aged Care is the main place to look for government-funded respite for older people. 
• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may include short-term respite in a person’s plan. 
• Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) may pay for support at home, short stays away from home, or emergency help for some veterans and carers. 

You do not have to do this on your own. Support is available to help you plan ahead, take a break and get the care you need. 

Caring for someone can be deeply meaningful, but it can also be exhausting. 

Over time, the physical, emotional and mental load of caring can build up, especially when support is limited. Many carers experience stress, isolation, financial pressure or changes in their own health. 

If this is happening to you, you are not alone. It does not mean you are doing anything wrong. 

Why burnout matters 

Burnout often builds gradually when caring demands stay high and there is not enough time, support or recovery. It can affect: 

• Physical health, including sleep, energy levels and recovery from illness 
• Mental health, including anxiety, low mood, irritability and feeling emotionally drained 
• Relationships, work, study and social connection 
• Your ability to continue caring safely and sustainably over time 

The earlier you notice the signs, the easier it can be to get support. 

Signs you may need more support 

Many carers put their own needs last, so burnout can be easy to miss. 

Burnout may be more likely if caring is intense, your sleep is disrupted, you are managing most of the care on your own, money is tight, or the person you support has complex needs. 

You may need more support if you notice: 

• Persistent tiredness, poor sleep or feeling exhausted even after rest 
• Feeling overwhelmed, irritable, numb or emotionally drained 
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions or staying on top of daily tasks 
• Withdrawing from friends, family, work or activities you usually enjoy 
• Frequent headaches, illness, low motivation, or relying on alcohol or other drugs to cope 
• Feeling like you have to manage everything alone 

These signs are common, and they matter. They may be a gentle signal that you need more support, more rest, or a chance to share some of the load. 

What can help 

There is no single right way to reduce burnout. A mix of practical, emotional and social support is often most helpful. 

This might include: 

• Taking planned respite or short regular breaks before you reach crisis point 
• Sharing caring tasks where possible, including asking for specific practical help 
• Using skills-based or psychoeducation programs to build confidence, coping and problem-solving 
• Accessing counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)-based support, mindfulness or other mental health support 
• Joining peer, community or carer support groups to reduce isolation and share strategies 
• Getting help with care coordination, appointments, transport, paperwork or daily tasks 
• Setting realistic expectations, routines and boundaries that protect your own health 

Even small changes can help. Regular check-ins, practical support and early conversations can make a real difference over time. 

For families and carers of veterans 

For families of veterans, caring responsibilities may be shaped by service-related injury, illness, trauma, ageing or transition out of Defence. 

Carers may also be balancing work, parenting, advocacy, appointments, paperwork and their own health needs. Support that understands military and veteran family experiences can help carers feel seen, reduce pressure and improve wellbeing. 

Getting support 

If things are starting to feel heavy, reaching out early can help. 

You might consider: 

• Exploring respite, in-home support or practical help with daily tasks 
• Talking with your GP, a counsellor, social worker or another health professional about carer strain 
• Joining a carer or peer support service to reduce isolation and share strategies 
• Asking family, friends or services for specific help, such as transport, meals, paperwork or appointment support 
• Seeking help to understand and navigate available services and supports 

Where to get support 

You do not have to work this out on your own. These services can help with practical support, counselling, respite, financial help and crisis support. 

• Carer Gateway – Support for unpaid carers, including counselling, coaching, peer support, tailored support packages, and planned or emergency respite. Call 1800 422 737. Visit the Carer Gateway website. 
• Open Arms – Free counselling and wellbeing support for veterans and families of veterans, including carers. Call 1800 011 046. Visit the Open Arms website. 
• Services Australia – Information about Carer Payment, Carer Allowance and other financial support for carers. Visit the Services Australia website. 
• My Aged Care – Information about respite and other aged care supports for older people and their carers. Call 1800 200 422. Visit the My Aged Care website. 
• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) – Information about disability supports that may help the person you care for and reduce pressure on carers. Call 1800 800 110. Visit the NDIS website. 
• Lifeline – 24/7 crisis support if you are overwhelmed, in emotional distress, or worried about safety. Call 13 11 14. Visit the Lifeline website. 
• Beyond Blue – 24/7 mental health support and counselling. Call 1300 22 4636. Visit the Beyond Blue website. 

If burnout is affecting your health, sleep, safety or ability to cope, it may be time to seek extra support. 

If you are in immediate danger or worried about your safety or someone else’s, call emergency services on 000. 

Caring can be hard, and support can make a difference. You do not have to carry it all on your own. 

Leaving the ADF or transferring to the Reserves can bring practical, financial and personal changes. This page outlines key steps, support options and planning tips to help you prepare for civilian life. 

Key steps through Defence and DVA 

Use the ADF Transition Guide App 

The ADF Transition Guide mobile app brings together transition information, checklists, support services and updates in one place. 

Connect with your local Transition Centre 

Contact your local Transition Centre. A Transition Support Officer can help you understand the process and build a transition plan that fits your needs. 

Attend Transition Seminars 

Attend Transition Seminars as they explain Defence, DVA, superannuation and other support options. Family members can attend with you. 

Register with MyService 

Register with MyService. You can use it to connect with DVA online, lodge and track claims, book transport and access other services. Registering early may help you access support sooner. 

Key transition programs 

Defence Force Transition Program 

The Defence Force Transition Program offers advice and support to help you transition. Services are available for up to 24 months after separation, usually through your local Transition Centre. 

Open Arms – Stepping Out Program 

The Open Arms Stepping Out Program supports current and former serving members and partners with wellbeing, adjustment and practical preparation for civilian life. 

Preparing as a family 

Transition can affect the whole family. It may change routines, income, caring roles, work arrangements and where you live. 

It may help to plan together for: 

• housing and rental plans 
• school changes for children 
• moving to a new community 
• changes to paid work, caring responsibilities and daily routines 

You may find it helpful to attend Transition Seminars or appointments together. 

What to think about before your separation date 

Before leaving the ADF or transferring to the Reserves, think about the areas of life that may need attention in the short and medium term. 

• your physical and mental health care 
• employment, study or training plans 
• your finances, superannuation and budget 
• housing and daily routines 
• family roles, relationships and caring responsibilities 
• community and peer connection outside Defence 

Build a plan that fits your situation 

Everyone’s transition is different. Some people have time to plan ahead, while others may be working to a shorter timeline. 

Your plan can start with the next step that matters most to you. It can also reflect your strengths, work goals, family responsibilities and support networks.  

Support Available 

Transition Support Officers (Joint Transition Authority) 

Transition Support Officers can help you: 

• identify your priorities and options 
• understand available supports 
• build a plan that reflects your needs, strengths and circumstances 

Veteran and Family Support Officers (Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency) 

Veteran and Family Support Officers can help you: 

• use MyService and other online tools 
• understand options for DVA claims and treatment with your Veteran Card 
• connect with services and resources that support wellbeing for you and your family 
• get coordinated support by working with other people involved in your transition 

What role can pets play in wellbeing? 

Pets can provide companionship, comfort and a sense of connection in everyday life. 

For many people, animals become a trusted part of their support system. They can offer routine, comfort and emotional support, especially during difficult times. 

Pets can support emotional, social and physical wellbeing in meaningful ways. 

How pets can help 

Spending time with animals can support wellbeing in different ways. 

Emotional support 

• Provide comfort during stress, anxiety or low mood 
• Offer companionship and reduce feelings of loneliness 
• Create a sense of safety and stability 

Research suggests pets help reduce stress and support emotional wellbeing, especially during challenging times. 

Connection and companionship 

• Provide a consistent source of connection 
• Help reduce social isolation 
• Act as a “social bridge” to meet others (for example, through dog walking or community spaces) 

Pets can help people feel more connected to others and to their community. 

Routine and purpose 

• Create daily structure (feeding, walking, care) 
• Provide a sense of responsibility and purpose 
• Encourage engagement, even on difficult days 

Caring for a pet can help create routine and a sense of purpose, which can support mental wellbeing. 

Physical and mental health 

• Encourage physical activity (especially with dogs) 
• Help lower stress levels and improve mood 
• Support relaxation and mindfulness 

Interacting with animals may help reduce stress and promote calm and wellbeing. 

Why pets matter for veterans and families of veterans 

Transitioning out of service or going through other difficult times can affect routine, identity and connection. 

For some veterans and families of veterans, pets can help by: 

• Providing companionship and emotional support 
• Reducing feelings of isolation or loneliness 
• Supporting daily structure and routine 
• Offering a calming presence during stress or anxiety 

In some cases, specially trained assistance animals can support people living with post-traumatic stress. They may recognise signs of distress and help reduce symptoms. 

Pets may not be the right option for everyone, but for many people they can be a valuable part of a broader support network. 

How pets fit into your wellbeing 

Wellbeing is about your whole life, not just your health. 

Pets can support several areas of wellbeing, including: 

• Mental wellbeing – managing stress, anxiety and mood 
• Connection – reducing loneliness and building social relationships 
• Purpose – providing routine and responsibility 
• Physical health – encouraging activity and healthy habits 

Pets can complement other forms of support, such as counselling, peer support or community activities. 

What to consider before getting a pet 

Pets can bring comfort, connection and routine, but it is also important to think about what kind of care and commitment is involved. 

Before getting a pet, think about your housing, daily routine, health, support network and the care you can realistically provide. A pet may be a good fit for some people, but not for others. 

If owning a pet is not practical, there are other ways to spend time with animals. You might foster, volunteer or help care for someone else’s pet. 

Pets provide companionship. Assistance animals are specially trained to support a person with disability or other specific needs. Animal-assisted therapy is delivered by a qualified provider. 

Relationships with pets can be deeply important. If a pet becomes unwell, dies or needs to be rehomed, it is normal to feel grief or loss. Support from family, friends or a counsellor may help. 

Getting involved with animals 

You don’t need to own a pet to experience the benefits of spending time with animals. 

If owning a pet is not right for you, there are other ways to spend time with animals: 

• Spending time with a friend or family member’s pet 
• Volunteering with an animal shelter or rescue organisation 
• Participating in animal-assisted therapy programs 
• Visiting community spaces where animals are welcome 

Even small interactions with animals can support wellbeing and connection. 

Pets are not the only support 

Pets can make a meaningful difference, but they work best alongside other supports, such as talking to someone, accessing services and staying connected to your community.