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The government has announced that from 1 July 2019, all Australian Defence Force personnel leaving full-time service will have access to fully-funded comprehensive health checks from a GP every year for the first five years of their exit.
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Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester announced the expanded Veteran Health Checks program, which aims to "optimise the physical and mental health and wellbeing of veterans in the years following transition from the ADF".
“We know that early intervention is important in helping veterans enjoy positive health outcomes and manage their health during transition to civilian life,” Minister Chester said.
“Research such as the Transition and Wellbeing Research Programme identifies that current and former ADF members benefit from more support in the first five years post-discharge.
“This is why the government has designed the Veteran Health Check specifically for veterans so they can access a community or family GP each year at no cost.
“The government is committed to putting veterans and their families first and this is just one step we have taken to look after their mental and physical wellbeing.”
ADF members who transition before 30 June 2019 will continue to be able to gain access to the comprehensive one-off Veteran Health Check (formerly known as the one-off ADF Post-Discharge GP Health Assessment) at any time post-transition.
“I encourage all veterans to make the time for their annual Veteran Health Check – get to know your GP so they can help you look after your health and wellbeing,” Minister Chester said.
“Your GP can make referrals for additional tests, treatment or assessment by other health professionals, and can refer you to relevant Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) services or programs. DVA will cover the entire cost of your Veteran Health Checks.”
