Health and wellbeing
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)
The Federal Government’s DVA offer health and wellbeing services to serving and ex-Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel and veterans; their dependants and carers. An advocate can help you find out what support you may be eligible for.
You can use the Accredited Advocate Register (ARR) to find an ex-service organisation with qualified advocates who are trained to assist you in accessing services relating to wellbeing, rehabilitation, compensation and appeals.
In addition to DVA there are a range of services available for serving and ex ADF personnel and veterans, their dependants and direct family members.
Health and wellbeing support services offered by the Queensland Government to the broader community are also available.
Support for veterans who served in Afghanistan
Following recent developments, our thoughts are with the Australian Defence Force personnel who served and sacrificed in Afghanistan and the Middle East. We also acknowledge their families and communities, and the people of Afghanistan.
We recognise that this is a difficult time and encourage members of our veterans’ community to seek support if needed.
If you are concerned about the health or wellbeing of yourself or a loved one, support is available from services including:
| Support service | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Open Arms | 1800 011 046 | openarms.gov.au |
| Defence Member and Family Helpline | 1800 624 608 | |
| Lifeline | 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au |
| Beyond Blue | 1300 224 636 | beyondblue.org.au |
| Safe Zone Support | 1800 142 072 | openarms.gov.au/safe-zone |
| Kids Helpline | 1800 55 1800 | kidshelpline.com.au |
Psychological
Maintaining good psychological health means being able to think, feel and behave in a manner that allows people to realise their potential and better cope with the stresses of life.
A range of organisations provide psychological health support services for ex-ADF personnel and veterans and their families in Queensland.
Physical
Maintaining good physical health means keeping active and eating well, among other factors. Exercise can be a natural mood lifter and reduce stress, anxiety, depression and anger.
A range of organisations provide physical health support services for ex-ADF personnel and veterans and their families in Queensland.
Rehabilitation
No two people are the same. Information is available to help ex-ADF personnel and veterans make informed choices to progress their rehabilitation, improve wellbeing and adapt to and recover from, any injury or illness related to ADF service.
Social
Maintaining good social health means interacting with others in positive ways and engaging in meaningful relationships. Keeping socially connected with others can help instil a sense of purpose and belonging in individuals and empower them to live healthier, happier lives.
A range of organisations provide social health support services for ex-ADF personnel and veterans and their families in Queensland.