Funding by Department of Veterans’ Affairs

DVA-funded allied health support for a veteran

What is DVA funding?

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) provides health care funding for eligible Australian veterans, current serving members, and in some cases their dependants. Depending on the type of DVA card held (Gold, White, or Orange), eligible individuals may access a range of allied health services for accepted conditions or as part of approved treatment plans. Most Department of Veterans’ Affairs funded allied health services require a valid GP referral aligned with the conditions listed on the individual’s DVA card.

Department of Veterans’ Affairs funded allied health at Steps2Life

If you hold a Veteran Gold Card, or a White Card for an accepted condition, you may be able to access allied health services with a referral from your GP or specialist. Bring your card and referral to your first appointment so our team can check the details before sessions begin. Your clinician will complete an assessment, agree on goals with you and provide updates to your referring doctor as required. Families and carers are welcome to be involved, and we can explain how many sessions your referral covers and what happens when it needs to be renewed.

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Who is Eligible?

Department of Veterans’ Affairs funding eligibility depends on your DVA card type. Eligibility is confirmed by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs based on service history and card type, and your GP can help determine which services apply to your circumstances.

  • Gold Card holders can generally access a broad range of health services for all conditions
  • White Card holders are eligible for services related to accepted, service-related conditions only
  • Some dependants and family members of veterans may also be eligible under specific DVA arrangements. 
Free Discovery Call
funding option
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Services Available

Speech Therapy Toggle Arrow

Addresses communication and swallowing concerns associated with neurological or physical conditions, delivered in line with documented needs and DVA approval processes. 

Occupational Therapy Toggle Arrow

Supports functional independence in daily activities, with assessments and recommendations aligned to referral documentation and DVA guidelines.

Dietetics Toggle Arrow

Helps veterans manage chronic health conditions, weight changes, or recovery needs, in accordance with DVA-funded health service guidelines. 

Physiotherapy Toggle Arrow

Supports veterans with mobility, strength, and rehabilitation following injury, illness, or surgery, with programs aligned to DVA referral requirements and approved treatment plans. 

Psychology Toggle Arrow

Assists veterans experiencing mental health concerns, trauma-related challenges, or post-service adjustment difficulties, delivered in line with GP referrals and DVA requirements.

Free Discovery Call
Doctor reviewing referral requirements with an older male patient

Referral Requirements

Most Department of Veterans’ Affairs funded allied health services require a valid GP referral that aligns with the accepted conditions listed on your DVA card. The referral must meet DVA documentation requirements before services can commence, and referral validity periods vary depending on the service type and current DVA guidelines. Your GP or DVA can confirm whether a new referral is required for ongoing services.

How to Access Services

To access DVA-funded allied health services at Steps2Life, start by speaking with your GP about a referral aligned with your DVA card and accepted conditions. Once we receive your referral, our team will confirm your eligibility and funding details, discuss your goals, and arrange an initial appointment or assessment at one of our clinics, in your home, or via telehealth where appropriate.

Older couple discussing Department of Veterans’ Affairs funded allied health services

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s Work Together

Contact our team to discuss DVA funding, referral requirements, and how we can support your healthcare journey.

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