WELFARE REPATRIATION HANDBOOK
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
TIP NATIONAL
Welfare Officer
Handbook
WELFARE REPATRIATION HANDBOOK
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Preface
This handbook is designed to assist Ex-Service Organisation (ESO) welfare practitioners.
The duties of an ESO welfare practitioner require a wide range of skills. Such people must
be able to:
•
understand the Repatriation system;
•
understand the rights and responsibilities of a welfare officer;
•
assist veterans and their dependents in their dealings with Department of
Veteran’s Affairs and any other agency as required;
•
understand and interpret the relevant laws and regulations; and
•
liaise with the veteran and any others who may assist in the veteran’s needs for welfare
Support
Few newcomers to the welfare field have had much experience with the Repatriation system. Thus
this handbook has been written to cater for the newcomer and in general terms, is designed to
provide an easily assimilated description of the repatriation system as it affects a welfare officer.
Some of its information is of background interest only, while some is vital to the everyday
performance of a welfare practitioner’s duties.
A handbook such as this can do no more than give an outline of the Repatriation system and make
recommendations as to an approach to provide any necessary assistance. The information contained
in this handbook will need to be supplemented by reading, observation and discussion if a
practitioner is to bring to the performance of his or her duties, the skills that every veteran has earned
the right to expect.
~ IMPORTANT MESSAGE ~
Every effort has been made to make sure the information in this handbook was correct as at
August 2014. However, as the legislation changes, some information may become outdated.
Before using the handbook, please check the currency of any section you may be using.
The print (or reprint) date of each page is at the bottom left corner.
Practitioners should contact the National Welfare Chair. Details are on the TIP website:
www.tipaustralia.org.au
WELFARE REPATRIATION HANDBOOK
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
List of Amendments
No
1
2
3
4
5
Chapter
2
2
2
2
2
Amendment
Index Page has been changed
Moving into Residential Aged Care has been updated 08/07/2015
Aged Care and your Income Support Updated 01/07/2015
Treatment Repatriation Health Cards – Updated 22/07/2015
Health Care as had a major update
Page No
17
18
20
24 to 32
WELFARE REPATRIATION HANDBOOK
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Index
CHAPTER 1
PART A
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
INTRODUCTION
1
01
Background
Acknowledgement
1
1
01
02
PART B
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
RESOURCES
1
03
Resources for Welfare Officers
1
03
PART C
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
TELEPHONE LIST
1
04
Telephone List
Department of Veterans’ Affairs Office & Veterans,
General Enquires Service Name Number
Direct to Business Area
Veterans’ and Veterans’ Families Counselling Service (VVCS)
Other Health and Community Agencies
Other Organisations
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
04
04
04
04
04
04
06
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
HEALTH BENEFITS
2
01
Veterans’ and Veterans’ Counselling Service
Veterans’ and Veterans’ Counselling Service (VVCS)
Effects of Mental Health Concerns on Veterans and their families
The Effects of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Domestic and Family Violence
Transition to Civilian Life
2
2
2
2
2
2
02
03
03
03
03
03
Heading
VCS01
VCS01
VCS02
VCS03
VCS04
VCS05
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
2
04
2
2
2
04
04
04
Heading
HSV108
HSV108
HSV108
Page
Factsheet
CHAPTER 2
PART A
PART B
EMPLOYMENT
Veterans’ Vocational Rehabilitation Scheme
What is Veterans’ Vocational Rehabilitation Scheme (VVRS)
Is the scheme appropriate for me
PART C
Chapter
EDUCATION AND TRAINING SCHEME
2
05
Heading
Education and Training Scheme
What are the education schemes
Long Tan Bursary
Student Start-Up and Relocation Scholarship MRCA & VEA
2
2
2
2
05
05
05
05
MRC47
MRC47
GS04
MRC45
WELFARE REPATRIATION HANDBOOK
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
HEALTH ISSUES
2
06
Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
What is the Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
Joint Initiatives
Voluntary Work
Resources
Homelessness and DVA Support
Who do I contact if I am homeless or at risk of becoming homeless
Mental Health Support
When do I seek mental support
When can I get help
Ambulance Travel
Ambulance Using Gold Card
Ambulance using White Card
2
2
2
2
06
06
06
06
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
06
07
07
07
07
07
07
07
07
Heading
HSV92
HSV92
MRC36
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
HAC10
HAC10
HSV99
HSV99
HSV99
HSV120
HSV120
HSV120
Page
Factsheet
PART D
PART E
Chapter
HOUSING/ACCOMMODATION
2
08
Defence Service Homes Scheme
What can I do with the loan
Defence Service Home Insurance
Housing and Accommodation – Home Support Loans
Renting and Rent Assistance
Veterans’ Home Care
What service are available
Personal Care
Respite Care
Domestic Assistance
Waiver of Co-Payments for Veterans’ Home Care
What is Co-Payment
Coordinator Veterans’ Care (CVC) Social Assistance
To arrange an assessment Agency
Rehabilitation Appliances Program
What is RAP
Am I eligible
How do I receive RAP
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
08
08
08
09
09
10
10
10
10
10
10
11
11
11
11
11
12
12
Heading
HAC01
HAC01
HAC02
HAC05
IS74
HCS01
HCS01
HCS01
HSV06
HCS01
HCS05
HCS05
HCS10
HCS10
HSV107
HSV10
HSV10
HSV10
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
GRANTS PROGRAM
2
13
Grants Program
Who can apply
Building excellence in support and Training (BEST)
How does BEST link in with Training and Information (TIP)
NON – DVA Grants
Volunteer Grant – Department of families Housing Community Service
Saluting Their Service
Veterans’ and Community Grants
What is eligible
Who can apply
When is funding available
How to apply
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
13
13
13
13
14
13
13
14
14
14
14
14
Heading
GS02
GS02
GS02
GS02
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
GS03
GS03
GS03
GS03
GS03
PART F
WELFARE REPATRIATION HANDBOOK
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
PART G
Chapter
Page Factsheet
PLANNING AHEAD
2
16
Planning Ahead
2
16
Heading
No Factsheet
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
RESIDENTAIL AGED CARE
Moving into Residential Aged Care
2
2
17
17
What is Residential Aged Care
How do I get access to a residential aged care home
Aged care – Residential & Community for Former prisoners of War
What is Residential Aged Care Home
How do I get Access to a Residential Aged Care Home
Aged Care and your Income Support Pension
What happens to my support pension if I move into aged care
Income Support – Aged Care and your Finances
Who can answer questions about my Aged Care
General information About Moving Into Residential Aged Care
The Role of DVA in Residential Care
Special Provisions for DVA Card Holders in Residential Aged Care
Respite Care Carer Support
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
17
17
17
18
18
18
18
18
18
19
19
19
19
Heading
HSV05
HSV05
HSV05
HSV10
HSV05
HSV05
IS81
IS81
IS82
IS82
HSV05
HSV05
No Factsheet
HSV06
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
REPATRIATION HEALTH CARDS
2
20
Eligibility for the Rehabilitation Health Card – for all conditions
Australian Veterans
Commonwealth and Allied Veterans
Veterans’ Receiving Disability Pension under the VEA
Veterans’ Receiving an Aged or Invalidity Service Pension
Using the DVA Health Card – for all Conditions
Members with conditions accepted under MRCA
Dependents of Veterans
White Card Repatriation Health Card – For Specific Conditions
Orange Card – Repatriation Pharmaceutical benefits Card
What is the Orange Card?
Who is a Commonwealth or Allied Veteran or Mariner
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
20
20
20
21
21
21
21
22
22
23
23
23
Heading
HSV59
HSV59
HSV59
HSV59
HSV59
HSV60
HSV20
HSV60
HSV60
HSV69
HSV69
HSV69
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
HEALTH CARE
2
24
Local Medical Officer and Medical Specialist
What is a Local medical Officer
What is a Medical Specialist
Who is eligible
Using the DVA Health Card Foe All Conditions
DVA Health Card – For Specific Conditions (White)
Mental Health Support
Hospital Service
Hospital Service – Am I eligible
Provider - Hospital Admission and Discharge
Convalescent Care
Chiropractic Service
Osteopathic Service
What is osteopathic Service
Community Nursing Service
What is Community Nursing
Dental Service
What are dental services
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
24
24
24
24
24
24
24
25
25
25
25
26
26
26
26
26
26
26
Heading
HSV80
HSV80
HSV80
HSV80
HSV80
HSV80
HSV99
HSV74
HSV74
HIP40
HSV77
HSV13
HSV14
HSV14
HSV16
HSV16
HSV17
HSV17
PART H
PART I
PART J
WELFARE REPATRIATION HANDBOOK
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Optical Service
Physiotherapy Service for the Veteran Community
Podiatry and Medical Grade Footwear Service
Dietetic Service
Occupational Therapy Service for the Veteran Community
What is Occupational Therapy
Speech Pathology Service
Diabetes Education Service
What are the Diabetes Educator Service
Exercise Physiology Services purpose
What is exercise Physiology
Repatriation Pharmaceutical benefits Scheme
What is Repatriation Pharmaceutical benefits Scheme
Medication review in the Community
What is a Medication Review
When should a Medication Review Service be considers
Dose Administration Aid Service
What is a DAA?
Coordinated Veterans’ Care Program Purpose
What is the Coordinated Veterans’ Care (CVC) Program
Who is the CVC Program for
Rehabilitation Appliances Program
What is RAP
Home Modification and Household Adaptive Appliances
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
Personal Response Systems (PRS)
Provision of Oxygen Supplies
Ambulances Service
Ambulances Service – Am I eligible
Alternative Therapies
Alternative Therapies – What are Alternative therapies
What Alternative Therapies does DVA cover
DVA Arranged transport Under the Repatriation Transport Scheme
To be eligible for any transport Assistance Under the RTS
Am I eligible for a DVA arranged Taxi or hire car
Calming Travelling Expenses Under the Repatriation
Am I eligible
Health Providers – Veterans’ Transport Information
What Assistance is available under the Repatriation Transport Scheme
Community Transport
26
27
27
27
27
27
27
27
27
28
28
28
28
28
28
28
29
29
29
29
29
29
29
29
30
30
30
30
30
30
30
31
31
31
31
31
32
32
32
32
HSV18
HSV19
HSV20
HSV21
HSV23
HSV23
HSV27
HSV29
HSV29
HSV30
HSV30
HSV92
HSV92
HSV92
HSV90
HSV90
HSV95
HSV93
HSV101
HSV101
HSV101
HSV107
HSV107
HSV107
HSV107
HSV107
HSV107
HSV120
HSV120
HSV131
HSV131
HSV131
HSV03
HSV03
HSV03
HSV02
HSV02
HIP80
HIP80
HIP80
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
VETERANS’ ACCESS NETWORK (VAN)
2
34
Heading
Veterans’ Access Network
2
34
No Factsheet
PART K
PART L
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
Heading
WG01
WG02
WG02
WG03
WG02
WG02
WAR GRAGES
2
35
War Graves
How to obtain a memorial
Who is Eligible
What Types of Memorials are available
Memorial in a Cemetery
More Information
2
2
2
2
2
2
35
35
35
36
36
36
WELFARE REPATRIATION HANDBOOK
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
CHAPTER 3
PART A
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Concessions Cards, Aged Care and Advocacy
To be Eligible for Pensioner Concession Card (PCC)
Seniors’ Health Card
Great Southern Railway Service
Australian Pensioners’ Superannuates Freedom
Council on the Ageing (COTA) National Senior Partnership
PART B
ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS
Alcohol and Other Drugs
PART C
Chapter
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
Page Factsheet
02
Heading
02
02
03
03
03
04
IS125
IS125
IS126
IS126
IS126
IS126
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
3
05
Heading
05
No Factsheet
3
Chapter
Page Factsheet
CARER SUPPORT
3
06
Carers’ Association
Veterans’ Home care
Who is Eligible to be Assessed to receive service
3
3
3
06
06
07
PART D
Chapter
Page Factsheet
FAMILY ASSISTANCE/CHILD SUPPORT
3
08
About this service
Important Information
Estimator Disclaimer
Child Support Review Officer
How to object to Child Support Decisions
How to object to care percentage decisions about child support & family
3
3
3
3
3
3
08
08
08
08
09
09
Chapter
Page
COMMUNITY INFORMATION SERVICE
3
10
Citizens Advice Bureau
3
3
10
10
PART E
Local Councils/Shires
PART F
Chapter
Heading
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
Page
Heading
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
Factsheet
Heading
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
Factsheet
COUNSELLING
3
11
Centacare
Lifeline
Relationships Australia
The Salvation Army
3
3
3
3
11
11
12
12
Heading
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
DISABILITY SERVICES
3
13
Independent Living Centres
NICAN
3
3
13
14
Heading
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
3
15
Domestic Violence
3
15
Heading
No Factsheet
PART G
PART H
WELFARE REPATRIATION HANDBOOK
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
PART I
FAMILY AND PARENTING SUPPORT
Family and Parenting Support
PART J
EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT
Centrelink
Welfare Agencies
PART K
HEALTH ISSUES
Medicare Card
Nutrition
PART L
Chapter
Page
3
16
Heading
3
16
No Factsheet
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
3
17
Heading
17
18
No Factsheet
3
3
Chapter
3
3
3
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
No Factsheet
Factsheet
19
Heading
19
19
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
Page Factsheet
HEALTH PROMOTIONS
3
20
Cancer Society’s / Council
Heart Foundation
3
3
20
20
Heading
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
HEALTH SUPPORT GROUPS
3
21
Alzheimer’s Association
Arthritis Foundation
Diabetes Australia
3
3
3
21
21
21
Heading
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
HOUSING/ACCOMMODATION
3
23
Crisis Accommodation
Refuges/Hostels
Welfare Organisations
Veterans’ Emergency Accommodation
Housing Assistance
Commonwealth Housing Program
Mortgagee Rent Assistance Program
State Housing Programs
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
23
23
23
24
25
25
25
25
Heading
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
PART M
PART N
PART O
Chapter
Page
LEGAL ADVICE
3
26
Veterans ‘ Legal Aid
Extra Concession
Applications
Community Legal Centres
Website
Legal Aid Commission
Veterans’ Advocacy Service (NSW) Legal Aid Commission
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
26
26
26
26
26
27
27
PART P
Chapter
3
28
Grow
3
28
Chapter
Heading
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
Page Factsheet
MENTAL HEALTH
PART Q
Factsheet
Page
REPORDUCTIVE HEALTH
3
29
Family and Parenting Australia
3
29
Heading
No Factsheet
Factsheet
Heading
No Factsheet
WELFARE REPATRIATION HANDBOOK
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
29
29
29
29
30
30
30
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
REHABILITATION
3
31
Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service
3
31
Heading
No Factsheet
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
RURAL SERVICE
3
32
The Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development
Multi-Purpose Service Program and Multi-purpose Centres
Multi-Purpose Service Program (MPS) – Department of health & Ageing
Multi-Purpose Centres (MPCs)
3
3
3
3
32
33
33
33
Heading
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
No Factsheet
Clinical Service
Contraceptive Services
Sexual and Reproductive health management
Counselling
Referral to other agencies
Education and Training Services
Information Services
PART R
PART S
PART T
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
Chapter
Page
SEXUAL ASSAULT
3
35
Sexual Assault
3
35
PART U
Chapter
Page
SMOKERS’ INFORMATION
3
36
Quit Smoking Agencies
3
36
PART V
SPORT AND RECREATION
Quit Smoking Agencies
PART W
Chapter
3
3
Chapter
Page
37
37
Page
SUPPORT GROUPS VICTIMS OF CRIME
3
38
Sport Groups and Victims of Crime
3
38
Chapter
Page
WELFARE SERVICES INFORMATION
3
39
Anglicans Community Services
Housing, Income and labor Market Program
Community Programs
Families and Youth Family Support
The Aged
Other Specialized Programs
Centacare
St. Vincent De Paul Society
Families
Youth
Homeless Persons
Disabled and mentally Ill
The Aged
Prisoners
Migrants and Refugees
The Salvation Army
Smith Family
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
39
39
39
39
39
40
40
40
40
41
41
41
41
41
41
42
42
PART X
Factsheet
Heading
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Factsheet
Heading
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Factsheet
Heading
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Factsheet
Heading
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Factsheet
Heading
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WELFARE REPATRIATION HANDBOOK
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
CHAPTER 4
SERVICE ABBREVIATIONS
Service Abbreviations
Chapter
4
Page
02
Factsheet
No Factsheet
PART B – DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
ABBREVIATIONS
Department of Veterans Affairs Abbreviations
Chapter
4
12
No Factsheet
PART C – NAVY, ARMY AND RAAF MEDICAL
CLASSIFICATIONS
NAVY, ARMY AND RAAF Medical Classification
Chapter
Page
Factsheet
4
15
No Factsheet
PART D – AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE MEDICAL
EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATIONS
Chapter
Page
Fa No
Factsheet
ctsheet
Australian Defence Force Medical Employment Classification
4
19
Page
Factsheet
WELFARE REPATRIATION HANDBOOK
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Chapter 1 Introduction to the
Repatriation Welfare
Officer Handbook
Chapter 1 – Page 01
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK
2015
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER
Part A Background
The Handbook has been prepared under the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Training
Information Program in consultation with the ex-service community through the State TIP
Consultative Group Committees.
It covers entitlements available under veterans’ and associated legislation and information on a
range of health and community services and is designed to assist ex- service organisation (ESO)
representatives and others within the veteran community to perform their support role within that
community.
This Handbook is a national resource and the focus is on national groups and organisations. It
covers information on a range of health and community services based on the needs of ESOs. The
Handbook does not look at services offered by local councils, shires and regions. This would have
made it unmanageable, given that much of the information from other local areas in Australia
would not be relevant to the individual ESO representative.
However, bear in mind that lots of useful, accurate and detailed information on local services can
be obtained from:
•
Citizens’ Advice Bureau;
•
Community Health Centres;
•
Local Councils/Shires;
•
State Government Departments;
•
Community organisations e.g. Salvation Army
•
local telephone books, especially the community services/emergency
services pages in the front of the white pages; and
•
local public hospitals.
A.1 Acknowledgment
Little of the material in this handbook is original and comes from many sources. In particular
the following sources are acknowledged:
•
Training & Information Program (TIP) National Welfare Representative
•
The Vietnam Veterans’ Association of Australia (VVAA) Handbook 1994
•
The various State Welfare Officers’
•
The CCPS Research Library
•
DVA National and State Offices.
Chapter 1- Page 02
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK
2015
Part B
CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER
Resources for Welfare Officers
Often the Welfare Officer is the first person a veteran will contact when they require assistance.
As the Welfare Officer will build many links throughout a community, he or she is an essential
information source for providing veterans and their families with information on services that may
assist. It is important that information passed on to others is current and brochures etc. are up-todate.
Welfare Officer Resources might include:
o
The Repatriation Handbook;
o
DVA’s telephone contact numbers;
o
an appointments book/diary—to record appointments, context of interview, action taken,
referrals etc;
o
a list of telephone contact numbers of regularly used government organisations and
community groups;
o
relevant pamphlets, brochures from DVA on health related issues;
o
community support resources—pamphlets, brochures, fact sheets etc;
o
Fact Sheets from:
o
DVA—http://www.dva.gov.au;
o
Centrelink—http://www.centrelink.gov.au;
o
Health and Ageing—http://www.health.gov.au; or
o
Other relevant government organisations.
The above list is not exhaustive and resources will also include your personal contacts in different
organisations.
Chapter1- Page 03
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part C
Telephone List
Many health and community services telephone numbers are listed in the front of the telephone book.
These usually differ from region to region. Use this section of the Handbook to create your own telephone
contact list.
Please take note that the telephone numbers listed for the Departmental and VAN
Offices may change at any given time.
C.1
Department of Veterans’ Affairs Offices & Veterans’ Access
Network
General enquires Service Name Number
General inquiries – from anywhere in Australia
General enquires – from country areas only (freecall)
MCRS
C.2
133 254
1800 555 254
1300 550 461
Direct to Business Area
Defense Service Homes Insurance
Defense Service Homes Loans
Health, medical and hospital providers
Local veterans’ Home Care (VHC) assessor
VAPAC
Veterans’ Home Maintenance Line
Veterans’ Home Front
1300 552 662
1800 722 000
1300 550 457
1300 550 450
1800 552 580
1800 801 945
1800 801 945
C.3 Veterans’ and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS)
Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS
C.4
1800 011 046
Other Health and Community Agencies
TELEPHONE NO’s
ORGANISATIONS
Advice Bureau Commonwealth
Alcoholics Anonymous
Advice Bureau Commonwealth
Alzheimer’s’ Association
Association Arthritis Foundation
Cancer Society/Council
Carer’s Association
Centacare
Centerline
aged pensioners
non-English speaking clients
other clients
Local Office
Chapter 1 – Page 04
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Child Support Agency
Child Support Review Office Citizens’
Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service
Community Health Centre
Community Legal Centre
Council on the Ageing
Australian Government Regional Service (AGRIS)
Court Counsellors
Detox Centre
Diabetes Australia
Domestic Violence Centre
Employment, Education & Training, Department
Family Crisis Service
Family Planning Association
GROW
Heart Foundation
Independent Living Centre
Kidney Foundation
Kidney Foundation
Kidney Foundation
Lifeline
Local Dental Officer
Local Medical Officer
Local Council/Shire (Welfare)
Marriage Guidance Counselling
Mental Health Service
Poisons Information Centre
Pregnancy Support/Advice
QUIT
Refuges
Salvation Army
Salvo Care Line
St Vincent de Paul
Sexual Assault Service
Smith Family
Tenants Advice
Victims of Crime Support Group
Vietnam War Veterans’ Trust
Women’s Health Centre
Youthline
Chapter 1 – Page 05
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
C. 4.1
Other Organisations
ORGANISATION
TELEPHONE NO
ADDRESS
Chapter 1-Page 06
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
HANDY LINKS
Note: By placing cursor over the colored portion this will bring up a grey box that advises you to hold the
Ctrl button and click on your mouse or keyboard this will take you to the website.
Apply for Income Support
At - Ease the right Mix
At Ease mental Health
Anzac Centenary
Australian War memorial
Australian Centre mental Health
Australian veterans’ Children (AVACAT)
Association of Discharge Planning
Change In Circumstance
Centrelink
Children’s Education
Commemorations
Compensation
Coordinated veterans’ Care
COTA
Defence Home Service Ownership
Assistance
Defence Service Homes
Department of Veterans
Department of Defence
DVA Card System
DVA Grants
DVA Factsheets
Eligibility - Qualifying Service
Entitlement Self Assessment
Education Scheme
GROW
Health care Provider
Home & Care
Homelessness
Housing & Accommodation
Income Support
Korean Nominal Roll
Veterans and Veteran Counselling Service
QLD - LEGAL AID Websites:
TAS - LEGAL AID Websites:
NSW - LEGAL AID Websites:
SA - LEGAL AID Websites:
VIC - LEGAL AID Websites:
WA - LEGAL AID Websites:
NT - LEGAL AID Websites:
ACT – LEGAL AID Website
My Aged Care
Medical Conditions
Apply for Income Support
www.at-ease.dva.gov.au/therightmix
At Ease mental health
Anzac Centenary
Australian War Memorial
Australian Centre for Post-traumatic Mental Health
Australian Veterans' Children Assistance Trust (AVCAT)
Association of Discharge Planning Nurses Inc
Change of Circumstance
Centrelink
Education
Commemorations
Compensation
CVC Program for Providers page
www.cota.org.au
Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme
Defence Service Homes
www.dva.gov.au
Department of Defence
Gold and White Cards
Grants
Factsheets
Eligibility
Entitlement Self Assessment
Looking for Education Schemes for eligible
students
www.grow.net.au
Health care provider
Home and Care
Homelessness
Housing and Accommodation page
Income Support
Korean Nominal Rolls
www.vvcs.gov.au
www.legalaid.qld.gov.au
www.legalaid.tas.gov.au
www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/
www.lsc.sa.gov.au
www.legalaid.vic.gov.au
www.legalaid.wa.gov.au
www.ntlac.nt.gov.au
www.legalaide.act.org.au
http://www.myagedcare.gov.au/
Medical conditions
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Planning Ahead
Partner or family carer
On Base Advisor
Quit Now
Rehabilitation
The Smith Family
Training & Information Program National
A Veteran
This Link will take you to other web sites
Veterans’ Access network (VAN)
Veterans’ Home Care
Vietnam Veterans’ Nominal Roll
War Widow(er) & orphan’s Pension
Planning ahead kit
Partner, carer, or family member
On Base Advisors
www.quitnow.gov.au
Rehabilitation
Wellbeing
War Widow(ER)
WW2 Nominal Roll
Wellbeing
War widow
WW2 Nominal Roll
www.thesmithfamily.com.au
www.tipaustralia.org.au
Veteran
Veterans' Affairs portfolio
Veterans' Access Network
Veterans' home care
Vietnam Nominal Rolls
DP60 - War widow(er) and Orphan's pension (PDF 47
KB)
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Chapter 2
Health Benefits
Important Information
This Chapter is designed to provide a brief overview of services available through the
Department of Veterans’ Affairs and other agencies.
The information is a guide only and should be confirmed by reading the relevant DVA Fact
Sheet to ascertain the most recent information.
Chapter 2- Page 01
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part A Counselling
A.1
Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service
The Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS) is a specialised, free
and confidential counselling service for Australian veterans, their families and parts of the Defence Force
community and promote community awareness and understanding of the problems they face. Veterans do not
need to be holders of a DVA entitlement card to use
the services of VVCS.
VVCS counselling staff are professionally qualified social workers or psychologists. They are skilled in the
treatment of a wide range of war or service related conditions including posttraumatic stress disorder
(PTSD). Counsellors help people address problems in their lives with the aim of finding effective outcomes
for an improved quality of life.
The services that VVCS provides are:
•
direct counselling for veterans, their families and parts of the defence force community;
•
crisis counselling:
•
after-hours crisis counselling.
•
individual counselling;
•
couple counselling (veterans and partners);
•
family therapy (limited, veterans and partners);
•
therapeutic and educational group programs;
•
lifestyle management programs (Vietnam veterans and partners);
•
an outreach counseling program to outer metropolitan , rural and remote locations;
•
information and education;
•
referral to other treatment services;
•
referral to emergency accommodation centres where available; and
•
community development activities leading to ex-service community capacity building.
All VVCS interviews are confidential with qualified counsellors, male and female, who understand warrelated problems and how war-related psychological reactions intrude on relationships. Any interview notes
are private and are not accessible to any agency, including the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, without
written client permission. Exceptions to this only occur in certain legal, criminal or personal safety
situations.
Information concerning the Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service can be found in the
following Fact Sheets and by accessing the VVCS website www.vvcs.gov.au Note: Place cursor over the
colored portion this will bring up a grey box that advises you to hold the Ctrl button and click on your
mouse or keyboard this will take you to the Department of Veterans Affairs website click on You Tube
this will take you to the VVCS Mental health power points.
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS) - Factsheet VCS01
This Factsheet provides information about services available to veterans and their families through the
Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS).
VVCS provides free, confidential counselling and support for veterans and their families. VVCS counsellors
have an understanding of veteran and military culture that assists them to deliver specialised support.
Effects of Mental Health Concerns on Veterans and their Families Factsheet VCS02
This Factsheet explains how mental health concerns can affect veterans and their families and what help is
available.
The most common veteran mental health concerns can be grouped into these categories:
• Depression, including major depressive episode;
• Anxiety, including panic and social anxiety disorders;
• Trauma and stressor-related conditions, including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
(PTSD);
• Substance use and addiction, including alcohol or other drugs; and
• Somatic symptoms that is associated with distress and impairment.
The Effects of PTSD - Factsheet VCS03
Call VVCS (business hours) or Veterans Line (after hours) on 1800 011 046
This Factsheet describes how Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can affect veterans
and their families and outlines how it can be treated.
PTSD is a medically diagnosed psychological condition affecting some people who
experience or witness traumatic events such as combat, disasters, serious accidents or
violence.
Traumatic events do not affect everyone in the same way. For many people the feelings
connected with exposure to trauma decrease over time. However, some people have
severe reactions to a traumatic event that can continue and impact on their quality of life.
Domestic and Family Violence - Factsheet VCS04
Call VVCS (business hours) or Veterans Line (after hours) on 1800 011 046
This Factsheet is about domestic and family violence. It outlines support available if you
are in a violent or abusive relationship or if you want to change your behaviour.
Transition to Civilian Life - Factsheet VCS05 Call VVCS (business hours) or Veterans Line (after hours) on 1800 011 046
This Factsheet outlines concerns that Australian Defence Force (ADF) members may have
when transitioning to civilian life and provides suggestions to assist this transition.
For some ADF members the transition to civilian life can be difficult as military culture
provides strong beliefs, structures and a sense of identity which often influences many
aspects of their lives.
While many ADF members experience uncertainty when leaving the military most make
the transition successfully. Those leaving the military with service related problems such
as chronic ill health, injury, chronic pain or psychological concerns may experience greater
difficulties.
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Part B Employment
B.1 Veterans` Vocational Rehabilitation Scheme Factsheet HSV108
This Factsheet is about the Veterans” Vocational Rehabilitation Scheme, including who is eligible and how to
access the vocational rehabilitation service offered.
What is the Veterans’ Vocational Rehabilitation Scheme (VVRS)?
The VVRS is a voluntary scheme operated by DVA to help eligible veterans, with or
without a disability, who need assistance to obtain or hold suitable paid employment.
Is the scheme appropriate for me?
The scheme might be appropriate for you if you are a veteran and:
• about to leave the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with eligible service, including peacekeeping
•
•
•
•
deployments, and feel you need special assistance to move into civilian employment;
want to increase your hours of paid employment;
want to return to paid work;
feel at risk of losing your job; or
find it increasingly difficult to keep up the hours you are working.
A range of services is available, designed to help veteran’s find or keep a job. These services may include:
•
•
•
a professional vocational assessment to determine opportunities;
advice on job-seeking;
assistance with updating or upgrading your skills, e.g. to get recognition for your on-the job training
where this is essential for gaining or keeping employment;
• advice or support if your job is at risk;
• assistance with finding work.
Most people with eligible service under the VEA (prior to 1 July 2004) can apply for
assistance under the VVRS. This includes the following types of service:
• Operational;
• Peacekeeping;
• Hazardous;
• Eligible Defence Service (generally means at least three years continuous full time service during the
period 7 December 1972 to 6 April 1994); and
• British Nuclear Test Defence service (between certain periods from 1952 to 1965).
Commonwealth veterans, allied veterans or allied mariners in receipt of invalidity service pension can also
apply to the VVRS for assistance.
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Part C EDUCATION AND TRAINING SCHEME
C.1
FACTSHEET MRC47 Education and Training Scheme
This Factsheet provides information about Veteran’s Children Education Scheme (VCES) and the Military
Rehabilitation & Compensation Act Education and Training Scheme (MRCAETS) (the Education Scheme).
The VCES and the MRCAETS provide financial assistance, student support services, guidance and
counselling for eligible children to help them achieve their full potential in full-time education or career
training.
What are the Education Schemes?
The VCES is established under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA). The MRCAETS is established
under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA). While the benefits provided under
each scheme are mostly the same, eligibility rules differ slightly under the different pieces of legislation and
are set out below.
Both schemes provide benefits for eligible children undertaking primary, secondary or tertiary
study and are normally only provided for full-time study within Australia.
THE Long Tan BURSARY – This factsheet outlines the Long Tan Bursary (LTB). Factsheet
GS04
The Long Tan Bursary (LTB) is named after the Battle of Long Tan, the best-known battle fought by
Australians during the Vietnam War. Information about the history of the Battle of Long
Tan can be found on the Long Tan Bursary page of the DVA website at
www.dva.gov.au/commems_oawg/commemorations/education/Pages/long%20tan%20bur
sary.aspx
The LTB provides funding to help Australian Vietnam Veterans’ children meet the cost of post-secondary
education and help them obtain formal qualifications and skills needed to pursue their chosen career.
Fifty bursaries are available annually across Australia. Each bursary has a total value of up to $9,000 taken
over three years and can be used to help cover costs such as enrolment, course fees and textbooks.
Student start up scholarship AND RELOCATION SCHOLARSHIP (MRCA & VEA)
Factsheet MRC45
This Factsheet provides information about the Government’s Student Start-up and Relocation Scholarships.
Students studying an approved scholarship course who receive allowances under the Veterans’ Children
Education Scheme (VCES) or Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act Education and Training Scheme
(MRCAETS) may be eligible to receive one or both of these scholarships
Chapter 2 - Page 05
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Part D Health Issues
D.1 REPATRIATION PHARMACEUT PHARMACEUTICAL– FACTSHEET HSV92
BENEFITS SCHEME
This Factsheet describes how you can get access to concessional pharmaceutics under the Department of
Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS).
What is the RPBS?
The RPBS provides a wide range of pharmaceuticals and dressings at a concessional rate
for the treatment of eligible veterans, war widows/widowers, and their dependants.
The RPBS allows you access to all items listed in the Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits
(SPB) available to the general community under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
(PBS), and also an additional list contained in the Repatriation Schedule of
Pharmaceutical Benefits (RSPB) which is available only to veterans.
D.2 JOINT INITATIVES
There are many organisations undertaking health promotion activities in each State and Territory. These
include the Heart Foundation, Arthritis Foundation, Australian Sports Commission, Australian Nutrition
Foundation, Family Planning Association, State Cancer Societies/Councils and the health promotion units in
State Government Health Departments. See the listings for these organisations in the Handbook or your
telephone book for more details.
D.3 Voluntary Work - Factsheet MRC36.
This Factsheet explains what voluntary work is, how it is assessed and how it may affect
DVA payments.
Voluntary work is any unpaid work that you do for recognised community or welfare
organisations. DVA encourages veterans and members of the ex-service community to
volunteer to assist community or welfare groups. Many veterans provide immeasurable
support to ex-service organisations and other charities. Studies have shown that volunteering is beneficial to
well-being.
D.4 RESOURCES
DVA has a range of education resources available which address health issues relevant to the veteran
community. These resources include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Publications:
Living with Dementia
Planning Ahead
Adding life to your years cookbook
Back to Basics: Handy Hints for Carers to Help Prevent Back Injury
You and Your Prostate: An Overview
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and War-Related Stress (Available from the
Australian Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health (ACPMH)—Ph: (03) 9936 5100.
Mental Health and Wellbeing after Military Service (also available from (ACPMH)
Chapter 2 - Page 06
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D.5 HOMELESSNESS AND DVA SUPPORT
This Factsheet provides information about assistance provided by DVA to veterans who
are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Who do I contact if I am homeless or at risk of becoming homeless?
Please phone DVA on 133 254* (metro) or 1800 555 254* (regional) or visit a Veterans’
Access Network (VAN) office for assistance if you are:
• a homeless veteran,
• a veteran who is at risk of becoming homeless, or
• a third party calling about a homeless veteran.
D.6 Mental Health Support - Factsheet HSV99
Mental Health This Factsheet outlines mental health services for the veteran and ex-service
community.
When do I seek mental health support?
If you are worried about how you are feeling or coping, then help is available. You may be feeling sad,
anxious, or angry. You may be troubled by memories, drinking too much, sleep or having difficulties relating
to family or friends. It’s not unusual to have these feelings or to experience problems after stressful
events or during stress periods in life. If these symptoms persist get in the way of you enjoying life or meeting
your responsibilities, there are steps you can take.
If you need help, there are people and services who can provide support and treatment.
Where can I get help?
Online - visit DVA’s mental health at www.at-ease.dva.gov.au for access
to videos, self-help tools, mobile apps, and advice on how to seek professional help.
D.7 AMBULANCE TRAVEL
A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website Factsheet HSV120
This Factsheet covers DVA’s policy about ambulance services. It includes who is eligible,
when DVA pays and how to arrange this service.
Gold Card
If you hold a DVA Health Card — For All Conditions (Gold) you are eligible for ambulance services for the
treatment of all health conditions, subject to your clinical need.
White Card
If you hold a DVA Health Card — For Specific Conditions (White) you are eligible for ambulance services,
subject to your clinical need, for ambulance services relating to:
• the treatment of your DVA accepted injury or disease
• malignant cancer (neoplasia)
• pulmonary tuberculosis
• post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and
• anxiety and/or depression.
DVA Health Card–For Specific Conditions, Overseas/allied veterans (White) are also issued to ex-service
personnel who are eligible for treatment under agreements between the Australian Government and New
Zealand, Canadian, South African and the United Kingdom governments for disabilities accepted as warcaused by their country of origin.
Chapter 2 - Page 07
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part E HOUSING/ACCOMMODATION
E.1
DEFENCE SERVICE HOMES SCHEMES
Defence Service Homes (DSH) Subsidised Home Loan
A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet
HAC01
This Factsheet is about the Defence Service Homes (DSH) Subsidised Home Loan which
is a subsidised loan of up to $25,000 available to eligible veterans and their surviving
partners and dependent parents.
What can I do with the loan?
You can use your DSH home loan to:
• buy or build a house or unit;
• complete, enlarge, modify and/or repair your house or unit;
• buy the right of entry into a retirement village;
• re-finance an existing mortgage, charge or encumbrance on a house or unit owned by
the eligible person;
• build, complete, enlarge, modify or repair your retirement village accommodation in
certain circumstances or discharge a debt in relation to it; or
• obtain granny flat accommodation on another person’s property (in this situation, you
must assign the loan to the owner of the accommodation so you also need to apply for a
Certificate of Assignment).
The DSH home loan can be transferred from one home to another.
E1.1 DEFENCE SERVICE HOME INSURANCE
A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet
HAC02
This Factsheet describes the Defence Service Homes Insurance Scheme which is available
to eligible veterans, serving members of the Australian Defence Force ADF (ADF), Reservists or a
widow/widower of any of these persons.
You can insure your home with the Defence Service Homes Insurance Scheme (DSHIS) if you are an
Australian veteran, a serving member of the ADF, a Reservist, (or a widow/widower of any of these persons)
who qualifies for:
•
•
•
•
•
benefits under the Veterans’ Entitlement Act 1986
a loan under the Defence Service Homes Act 1918 (whether used or not, or even if the loan has
been paid out)
a Home Support Loan
a loan under the Defence Force (Home Loans Assistance) Act 1990, or
a subsidy under the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme Act 2008 (DHOAS), whether
used or not.
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
This Scheme offers you building insurance with:
• a broad coverage – including flood and action of the sea
•
•
•
•
economical premiums
no excess - other than for earthquakes and some accidental damage claims
Flexible payment options including pay by direct debit, at no extra cost
friendly, personal and helpful service.
Yes, DSHIS has arranged other insurance packages including contents, car, caravan, pleasure craft, residential
landlords liability, travel, and compulsory third party (for QLD & NSW only).
These products are underwritten by QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited ABN 78 003 191 035 AFS Licence
No. 239545.
E.2 HOUSING AND ACCOMMODATION - HOME SUPPORT LOANS
A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet HAC05
This Factsheet describes a subsidised home support loan of up to $10,000 which is available to eligible
veterans and their surviving partners or dependent parents.
You may qualify for a Home Support Loan if you are:
•
an eligible person under the Defence Service Homes Act 1918
•
eligible for a benefit under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 as the result of service with the
Australian armed forces or a Peacekeeping Force
•
a surviving partner or dependent parent of a person mentioned above
The interest rate is a variable rate set on the 5th of each month. It is set at 1.5% below the
average standard variable home loan rate on the last working day of the previous month. It will not exceed
6.85% per annum.
Westpac Banking Corporation is contracted to provide the subsidised housing loans. Generally, first mortgage
security is required.
E.4 RENTING AND RENT ASSISTANCE - A factsheet on this subject can be found on the
DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet IS74.
This Factsheet explains rent assistance in relation to service pension or income support supplement.
Pensioners receiving a social security pension through DVA should refer to the Factsheet IS75 Renting and
Rent Assistance – Age Pensioners for information about rent assistance.
Rent assistance is a non taxable allowance to help meet the cost of private rented accommodation.
Rent is an amount paid by a person on a regular basis for occupying a residence, and includes:
• rent for private rental accommodation
• fees for the hire, rental or leasing of a caravan site or to moor a boat lodging
• lodging
• board and lodging (if you cannot identify the amount paid for lodging, 2/3rds of the total amount you
•
•
•
•
pay is taken to be rent)
fees paid to a non-government-funded residential care facility
fees for nursing-home type accommodation in a facility that is not subsidised by Government
fees paid for services in a self-care retirement village
site fees for relocatable homes.
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
You are eligible to receive rent assistance if you:
•
are eligible for service pension or income support supplement; and
•
pay rent other than Government (public housing) rent; and
•
pay a minimum amount of rent known as the rent threshold; and
•
live in Australia.
E.5 VETERANS’ HOME CARE
VETERANS’ HOME CARE A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website
www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet HCS01
This Factsheet provides information about the Veterans' Home Care Program including
who is eligible and how to access it.
Veterans' Home Care (VHC) is a DVA program designed to assist entitled persons who need a small amount
of practical help to continue living independently in their own home. Services include Domestic Assistance,
Personal Care, Respite Care, and safety-related Home and Garden Maintenance. VHC is not designed to meet
complex or high-level care needs.
What services are available?
Personal Care
Personal Care includes assistance with daily self-care tasks that a person is unable to do
for themselves. Services may include assistance with:
• showering, bathing, toileting;
• dressing, grooming;
• eating;
• application of non-medicated skin care creams and lotions; and
• putting on compression stockings, protective bandaging, splints and callipers.
Respite Care
Respite Care gives a break to a carer. Respite care may be provided to someone who is:
• a carer of an entitled person;
• an entitled person who is a carer; or
• a self-carer (for residential respite only).
Respite services include:
• In-home Respite Care;
• Residential Respite Care; or
• Emergency Short-Term Home Relief (ESTHR).
Domestic Assistance
Domestic Assistance provides support with basic household tasks such as:
• internal house cleaning like dishwashing, vacuuming and mopping, bed making and linen changing, clothes
washing and/or ironing;
• some assistance with meal preparation (but not total preparation of meals);
• bill paying and unaccompanied shopping; and
• collection of firewood in rural and remote areas
Chapter 2 - Page 10
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Waiver of Co-payments for Veterans’ Home Care Services
A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet HCS05
This Factsheet provides information on the waiver of copayments for Veterans' Home Care
(VHC) services.
What is a copayment?
A copayment is a contribution towards the cost of delivering services. It is payable for most of the home care
services provided under the VHC Program and for social assistance services offered through the Coordinated
Veterans’ Care (CVC) Program.
The amount is minimal, however, you may apply to have the copayments waived in cases where you are
experiencing ongoing financial hardship, are having temporary difficulties in paying the VHC Copayment, or
have a dependent child.
Coordinated Veterans’ Care (CVC) Social Assistance
A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet HCS10
To arrange an assessment call a VHC Assessment Agency on 1300 550 450^
Call from a landline telephone, as calls from mobile phones cannot be connected to a
VHC Assessment Agency
CVC is a health care program available to eligible Gold Card holders who have one or more chronic
conditions, complex care needs and are at risk of unplanned hospitalisation. By encouraging a greater level of
planning and coordination of health care services, the CVC Program aims to reduce unplanned hospitalisations
and improve participants’ quality of life.
CVC Social Assistance is a 12 week service designed to (re)connect socially isolated CVC participants into
community life. The services are community-based activities that meet the need for social contact to
strengthen well-being and a sense of belonging.
The aim is to give those eligible CVC participants the confidence and independence to be involved in
community activities, resulting in better health and a greater support network.
CVC Social Assistance services are provided through the Veterans’ Home Care (VHC) program.
E.6 REHABILITATION APPLIANCES PROGRAM - INFORMATION FOR VETERANS ON THE
REHABILITATION APPLIANCES PROGRAM
A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet HSV107
This Factsheet provides information about the Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP)
including who is eligible, what aids and appliances are available and how to access them.
What is RAP?
RAP helps eligible members of the veteran community to be independent and self-reliant
in their own homes. Health care assessments and the provision of aids and appliances
help to minimise the impact of disabilities, enhance quality of life and maximise
independence. RAP provides equipment according to each persons assessed clinical
need as part of the overall management of their health care.
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Am I eligible?
You are eligible if you have an assessed clinical need for an aid or appliance and are a:
• Gold Card holder
• White Card holder (only for conditions accepted by DVA as related to service); or
• Veteran from an allied country (only for conditions accepted by DVA as related to
service).
How do I access RAP?
Your needs will be assessed by your doctor or a health professional, such as an
occupational therapist. Their referral and prescription will be sent to an appropriate
supplier or DVA to arrange issue of the item to you.
Chapter 2 - Page 12
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part F
GRANTS PROGRAMS
DVA administers several grants programs. They are:
F.1
•
Building Excellence in Support and Training
•
Saluting Their Service Commemorations Grants
•
Veteran and Community Grants.
Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST)
BUILDING EXCELLENCE IN SUPPORT AND TRAINING
A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet GS02
This Factsheet explains the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Building Excellence in Support and Training
(BEST) program.
The aim of BEST is to provide support and resources to ESO practitioners for pensions, advocacy and/or
welfare work to assist the veteran and defence communities.
The BEST program forms part of the government's commitment to support the role of ex-service organisation
(ESO) pensions and welfare officers and advocates. These practitioners provide advice and assistance to
veterans, past and present members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), and their dependants. The aim of
BEST is to provide support and resources to these ESO practitioners and advocates.
A BEST grant is intended to be a contribution to ESO costs in providing services to the veteran and defence
communities. It is not to offset all costs and ESOs are expected to provide in-kind or other support to their
pension, advocate and welfare officers.
Who can apply?
ESOs who provide pensions, advocacy and/or welfare assistance to veterans, past and present members of the
ADF and/or their dependants, can apply for a BEST grant. ESOs must be incorporated under the relevant State
or Territory legislation.
While each application is considered on its merits, DVA encourages ESOs operating in the same region to
adopt a co-operative approach to providing services to clients. This increases both their efficiency and
effectiveness and enables the Government to better target areas of high need. DVA is aware however, that
particularly in regional or remote areas, it is not always possible to establish co-operative arrangements.
Applicant criteria is outlined in the BEST Grant Program Application Guidelines which are made available on
the Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) page of the
DVA website at www.dva.gov.au/consultation-and-grants/grants/grant-and-bursaryprograms/ buildingexcellence-support-and-training when a new round of funding has opened.
How does BEST link in with the Training and Information Program (TIP)?
TIP provides training and information for welfare, advocate and pensions officers who are working within
ESOs. TIP training is delivered to enable them to provide the best possible advice to current and former
members of the defence forces seeking their services.
To be eligible for BEST grant support, especially if they are funded through BEST, practitioners are required
to undertake the appropriate levels of TIP training.
NON – DVA GRANTS
There are many State and Territory local government grants available. The relevant government website
should assist in indentifying what is available.
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VOLUNTEER GRANT – DEPARTMRNT OF FAMILIES, HOUSING, COMMUNITY SERVICE
AND INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS
The Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs administers a Volunteer
Grants program. These Grants are between $1,000 and $5,000 each and enable organisations to contribute
towards the costs of training courses for volunteers and to undertake background screening checks for their
volunteers. Funding is also available to purchase small equipment items to help volunteers and to contribute
towards fuel reimbursement
for their volunteers, including those who use their cars to transport others to
activities, deliver food and assist people in need.
Also see Government Grants Australia website or call 1300 362 755.
F.2 SALUTING THEIR SERVICE
Saluting Their Service supports commemorative activities and educational programs so that Australians may
learn about and acknowledge the events of our wartime years; the significance of those events in shaping our
nation; and stories of the people who experienced those years, their bravery and suffering. Importantly, the
roles played by men and women in local communities throughout Australia in serving our nation can be
acknowledged and promoted.
Saluting Their Service provides opportunities for communities, organisations and individuals to take an active
role in commemoration and to ensure that the service of today's Australian Defence Force is properly
recognised.
F.3
VETERAN AND COMMUNITY GRANT
VETERAN & COMMUNITY GRANT PROGRAM
A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet GS03
This Factsheet provides information about the Veteran and Community Grants (V&CG)
program, and how to apply.
V&CG are for all veterans, their spouses, partners, widows/widowers, carers, dependants and other members
of the ex-service community. Projects may also benefit the wider community. V&CG support activities and
services that sustain and/or enhance health and well-being.
V&CG provide seeding funds for projects that support a healthy, quality lifestyle for members of the veteran
community and assist them to remain living independently in their own homes. V&CG also provides funding
for initiatives that reduce social isolation, support carers and improve access to community services.
To be eligible for a Veteran and Community grant, an applicant must be an ESO, veteran representative group,
community-based organisation or private organisation that can demonstrate the ability to contribute to the
welfare of members of the veteran community through the proposed project.
What is eligible?
V&CG assist projects that will become sustainable and financially viable, or one-off projects that have an
ongoing health benefit for the veteran community. V&CG are not provided for recurrent or ongoing financial
assistance.
Eligible items, funding exclusions and limits are outlined in the Veteran & Community Grant Guidelines
available on the Veteran & Community Grants page of the DVA website at www.dva.gov.au/consultation-andgrants/grants/grant-and-bursary-programs/veteranand- community-grants
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Who can apply?
To be eligible for V&CG funding, an applicant must be able to demonstrate their ability to
contribute to the welfare of members of the veteran community through the proposed
project and be an
• ESO
• veteran representative group
• community-based organisation; or
• private organisation..
When is funding available?
Funding decisions are made on an ongoing, rolling basis. When DVA has received a sufficient number of
applications or a two month period has passed, a funding round will be processed for the Minister’s decision.
The funding year starts on 1 July and any applications received between then and 1 September will be
submitted to DVA’s Minister for decision as soon as possible.
How to apply
Before completing an application for V&CG funding, applicants should read the Veteran and Community
Grants Guidelines. Potential applicants should discuss their proposed project with a Community Adviser at
their local VAN office before completing an application for V&CG funding. Community Advisers will assist
in the development of the project and any subsequent application for V&CG funding. DVA staff members are
available to assist with the development of applications.
Requests for funding must be submitted on form D1098 Application for Veteran and Community Grants. The
application form, Veteran & Community Grant Guidelines and the Guide to Completing a Veteran and
Community Grants Application Form are available on the Veteran & Community Grants Program page of the
DVA website at www.dva.gov.au/health_and_wellbeing/veterans_community_grants/Pages/index.aspx
Applications will be accepted at any time and must be sent to:
Manager Grants Administration
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
GPO Box 9998
ADELAIDE SA 5001
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part G Planning Ahead
G.1
PLANNING AHEAD
A Guide to Putting Your Affairs in Order
Preparing for & Coping with Bereavement
Planning Ahead is a publication designed to help veterans & their families prepare for bereavement.
The package includes:
•
Help available from DVA
• Help available from ESO
• Legal & Financials Issues
• Living independently in your own home
• Assistance in the provision of Care
• What to do when death occurs
• Bereavement payments & pensions
• Coping with bereavement. and
• Reference section – things to discuss with your family.
• Centrelink
• Publication
•
Needing help after Someone Died?
•
Other Useful websites:
• Aged Care Australia
• Department of Social Services
• Mental Health & Wellbeing, and
• Understanding money.
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part H
Residential Aged Care
H.1 Moving into Residential Care - Fact sheet HSV05
All fact sheets relating to Residential & Aged Care are being updated as changes to Federal Aged Care
services are introduced.
It is recommended that website be accessed for the most recent information.
http://www.myagedcare.gov.au/ Note: Place cursor over the blue writing and it will bring up a grey box hold Ctrl
button and click mouse or keyboard to bring up the web page.
What is a residential aged care home?
Residential aged care homes provide care and support to older people who can no longer live independently in
their home.
Many residential aged care homes receive subsidies from the Commonwealth Government to assist in
providing appropriate care and support to older people. These homes are required to meet a set of standards set
by the Commonwealth Government in regards to care, lifestyle, safety and building conditions. Residential
aged care homes that do not attract Commonwealth Government subsidies may be subject to different
arrangements.
How do I get access to a residential aged care home?
To access a residential aged care home, you will need to contact My Aged Care to register and be screened for
aged care services. My Aged Care contact centre staff will conduct screening by asking a series of questions
over the phone to understand your needs to determine the appropriate assessment pathway (home support or
comprehensive).
An Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT), known as Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) in Victoria, will
then conduct a face -to-face comprehensive assessment to help identify what care you need based on your
personal situation. Other programs they can assess you for include:
• Transition care (directly following an acute episode in hospital);
• Home Care Packages (assistance to remain at home); and
• Residential respite care (short stays in an residential aged care home to allow the carer a break).
The assessment is an opportunity to identify options and you can make a decision once you have received the
outcome of your assessment. You are also welcome to have someone else – perhaps a friend, family member,
independent aged care.
Aged Care….Residential & Community Aged Care for former Prisoners of War and Victoria
Cross recipient - A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au,
Factsheet HSV10
This Factsheet provides information about how to access Commonwealth Government subsidised residential
aged care.
The Department of Social Services (DSS) is responsible for the administration of the Aged Care Act 1997 for
all Australians including veterans and war widow/ers.
What is a residential aged care home?
Residential aged care homes provide care and support to older people who can no longer live
independently in their home. Many residential aged care homes receive subsidies from the
Commonwealth Government to assist in providing appropriate care and support to older people. These
homes are required to meet a set of standards set by the Commonwealth Government in regards to
care, lifestyle, safety and building conditions.
Residential aged care homes that do not attract Commonwealth Government subsidies may be subject
to different arrangements.
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How do I get access to a residential aged care home?
To access a residential aged care home, you will need an assessment by an Aged Care Assessment
Team (ACAT), known as Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) in Victoria. The ACAT assessment
process will help identify what care you need based on your personal situation. Other programs they
can assess you for include:
• transition care (directly following an acute episode in hospital);
• Home Care Packages (assistance to remain at home); and
• residential respite care (short stays in an residential aged care home to allow the carer a break).
Aged Care and your income support pension
A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet IS81
This Factsheet explains how your income support pension (service pension, age pension and the income
support supplement) is affected if you move into residential aged care, and what you need to tell DVA.
What happens to my income support pension if I move into residential aged care?
If you or your partner has been admitted to residential aged care on a permanent basis,
you are considered to be living apart because of your health. For partnered pensioners
who have to live separately because one or both of you is too frail or ill to stay at home
and the separation is likely to continue indefinitely, you will each be paid pension at the
higher singles rate.
You need to let us know that you are living apart because of ill health as soon as possible
so that we can adjust your pension promptly.
Income Support….Aged Care and your finances - A factsheet on this subject can be found on the
DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet IS82
This Factsheet provides an overview of aged care fees and payments. It contains basic information on the
arrangements following the 1 July 2014 aged care reforms changes, with general references to the rules that
apply to those who commenced care before July 2014.
Who can answer questions about my aged care fees? Information on fees and charges and any other matters
you (or your carer/s or representative/s) have negotiated with your care provider, must be specified in your
agreement. You should also receive a regular statement from your provider detailing the amount of your fees
and charges and the period covered.
As part of the aged care reforms, the My Aged Care website and a national contact centre have been
established to help people navigate the aged care system. For information about aged care, please visit the My
Aged Care website at http://www.myagedcare.gov.au/ or call their information line on 1800 200 422
Who works out my costs in residential aged care?
All care recipients are assessed by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT), or Aged Care Assessment
Service (ACAS) in Victoria, which determines what care you require. They will recommend the type of aged
care services that are the most appropriate for you.
Once you commence care, the level of Government subsidy payable to the provider for your care will be
determined. Reductions may be made to the amount of Government subsidy if you have the means to
contribute to your care and accommodation. An approved provider will be able to recoup this reduction by
asking you to contribute to the costs of your care and accommodation.
Some aged care fees are the same for everyone, while some are determined by your care needs and the level of
your income and assets, capped at maximum rates.
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General information about moving into Residential Aged Care.
For information about aged care, please visit the My Aged Care website at http://www.myagedcare.gov.au/or
call their information line on 1800 200 422.
THE ROLE OF DVA IN RESIDENTIAL CARE.
The Department of Social Services (DSS) is primarily responsible for the residential aged care program. It has
overall management and policy responsibility for the program, including assessment, monitoring of standards
of care, funding and income/assets, staffing maters and complaints investigation scheme.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) role in aged care is to advocate for the care needs and interests of
veterans in residential aged care and mainstream community aged care and to this end has developed a close
collaboration with DSS.
H.2 SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR DVA CARD HOLDERS IN RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE
All residents, including veteran community members, pay a basic daily care fee. If a resident has an assessable
income above a set standard, he/she may be asked to pay a percentage of that excess income in additional
income-tested fee. All members of the community may be asked to pay an assets tested accommodation bond
or ongoing accommodation charge, depending on the individuals assets.
Veterans however, receive some assistance in addition to that available to ‘mainstream’ residents. In
recognition of the special contribution made by veterans and their dependants on behalf of the nation, the
following benefits have been preserved:

DVA disability pension as compensation for service-related injuries is exempt from income testing of
daily fees for service pensioners and self-funded retirees with qualifying service.
 Gold card and White health cardholders in residential aged care facilities can access all their card
entitlements when they are in residential care, except for services legally required to be provided by
facilities.
 DVA pays the basic care fees for former POW or VC recipients in residential aged care DVA and
former POWs, VC recipients are exempt from income tested fees;
 The Government also provides aids and appliances to all entitled veterans in low care.
 In exceptional cases veterans and war widow is high care may receive aids and appliance where there
is a clinical need.
 While in residential aged care, eligible veterans and war widows may still receive assistance with
travel to attend medical treatment at specialists or hospitals.
DVA will pay for transport costs from the aged care home to any DVA funded medical or allied health care
appointments and return, including for an attendant if clinically required.
It should be noted that the aged care home is not obliged to pay for staff member to accompany a resident to a
medical treatment outside the home, and will generally seek reimbursement from resident if a staff member is
provided for the purpose. Nor does DVA pay for a staff member of the aged care facility or a family member
to escort the veteran to medical treatment.
H.3. RESPITE CARE AND CARER SUPPORT.
Factsheet HSV06 – Respite Care and Carer Support
To arrange an assessment call a VHC Assessment Agency on 1300 550 450^
Call from a landline telephone, as calls from mobile phones cannot be connected to a VHC Assessment
Agency.
This Factsheet provides information about Respite Care and carer support services available to the veteran
community.
Residential Respite Care does not include convalescent care. Convalescent care is used to recover from an
acute illness or operation after being discharged from hospital in an appropriate care facility. Please see
Factsheet HSV77 Convalescent Care for more information.
Chapter 2 - Page 19
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Treatment - Repatriation Health Cards
I.1
Gold Card
Veterans’ Entitlement Act (VEA)
Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA)
ELIGIBILITY FOR THE REPATRIATION HEALTH CARD – FOR ALL CONDITIONS
(Gold) - A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet HSV59
See also: Factsheet IS160 – Overview of Cards Available to Veterans and their Dependants.
This Factsheet describes who is eligible for the Repatriation Health Card — For All Conditions (Gold Card)
and what circumstances can affect your eligibility under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA) and the
Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA).
Australian Veterans
A Gold Card is issued to veterans of Australia's defence force who: Who can obtain a Gold Card? Australian
Veterans A Gold Card is issued to veterans of Australia's defence force who: • are ex-prisoners of war; • are
World War 1 veterans, nurses or mariners;
• are returned ex-servicewomen of World War 2, that is, who served in Australia’s defence force between 3
September 1939 and 29 October 1945 and who have qualifying service from that conflict;
• are World War 2 veterans who served in Australia’s defence force and mariners who served in Australia’s
merchant navy, between 3 September 1939 and 29 October 1945, who are aged 70 years or over, and have
qualifying service from that conflict;
• are mariners who served in Australia’s merchant navy between 3 September 1939 and 29 October 1945 and
are ex-prisoners of war; or
• are veterans who served in Australia's defence force after World War 2, who are aged 70 years or over, and
have qualifying service under section 7A of the VEA. This includes members who have rendered a period of
service classified as warlike on or after 1 July 2004, and which is covered under the Military, Rehabilitation
and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA) for compensation purposes.
Commonwealth and Allied Veterans
Some veterans of Commonwealth or allied forces with qualifying service are eligible for a Gold Card if they
are:
•
•
a veteran who served with a Commonwealth or allied force during World War 2 or in specified
operational areas after World War 2 and were domiciled in Australia immediately prior to
enlistment in the Commonwealth or allied force; or
a mariner who served on a Commonwealth or allied ship during World War 2, if they or their
dependants were residing in Australia for at least 12 months immediately prior to the
commencement of their service on that ship.
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
VETERANS’ RECEIVING DISABILITY PENSION UNDER THE VEA – Factsheet HSV59
Veterans who don’t fit into the above categories but who receive the disability pension are also eligible to
receive the Gold Card, if:
•
the rate of their disability pension is 100% of the general rate or higher;
•
the rate of their disability pensions 50% of the general rate or higher and they also receive any
amount of service pension;
•
their disability pension includes an additional amount under section 27 of the VEA for specific
service-related amputations or blindness in one eye; or
•
they were granted the disability pension for pulmonary tuberculosis before
2 November 1978.
VETERANS’ RECEIVING AN AGE OR INVALIDITY SERVICE PENSION
Veterans Receiving Disability Pension under the VEA Veterans who don’t fit into the above categories but
who receive the disability pension are also eligible to receive the Gold Card, if:
• the rate of their disability pension is 100% of the general rate or higher;
• the rate of their disability pensions is 50% of the general rate or higher and they also receive any amount of
service pension;
• their disability pension includes an additional amount under section 27 of the VEA for specific servicerelated amputations or blindness in one eye; or
• they were granted the disability pension for pulmonary tuberculosis before 2 November 1978.
Using the DVA Health Card – For all Conditions (Gold) – Factsheet HSV60
When do I use my Gold Card? Your Gold Card identifies you as being eligible for treatment and care for all
your health care conditions at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) expense.
You should present your Gold Card whenever you visit:
• a doctor, medical specialist, dentist, pharmacist, dental prosthetics, optometrist or other health care
professional who provides services under DVA arrangements; or
• a hospital or day procedure facility.
MEMBERS WITH CONDITIONS ACCEPTED UNDER MRCA
Former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), cadets and reservists who have conditions for which
liability has been accepted under the MRCA are eligible for a Gold Card if they:
•
have permanent impairment from accepted conditions assessed at or above 60 points; or
• meet the criteria for the Special Rate Disability Pension (SRDP) safety net payment even if they have
not chosen that pension.
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DEPENDANTS OF VETERANS
Certain dependants of veterans are also eligible for a Gold Card if they are:
• a war widow, widower or same sex partner in receipt of the war widows or widower’s pension; (Due
to legislative changes wef 1 July 2009)
• as at 1 July 2008 a war widow whose partner was in receipt of Temporary Special Rate and
Intermediate Rate Pensions at the time of their death;
• a dependent child of a deceased veteran whose death has been accepted as war-caused, who is under
•
•
•
•
*Note:
16 or between the ages of 16 and 25 and undergoing full-time education;
a child of a deceased veteran whose death was not war-caused and who had operational service, if the
child is not being cared for by the remaining parent;
an invalid son or daughter of a deceased veteran whose death has been accepted
as war-caused, who had treatment entitlement before 6 June 1985*;
a widowed mother or widowed step-mother who was dependent on an unmarried deceased veteran
whose death has been accepted as war-caused, who had treatment entitlement before 6 June 1985*; or
a wholly dependent partner or dependent child (known as an Eligible Young Person in the MRCA
2004) of a member who is eligible for compensation for the member’s death under the MRCA.
No new treatment eligibility grants for these categories have been possible since
18 October 1985
I.2 WHITE CARD
REPATRIATION HEALTH CARD—FOR SPECIFIC CONDITIONS (WHITE)
A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet
This Factsheet provides you with information on how to use your Repatriation Health Card –
For Specific Conditions (White Card).
A White Card is issued to Australian veterans or mariners under the Veterans’ Entitlements
Act 1986 (VEA) with:
•
an accepted war or service caused injury or disease;
•
malignant cancer (neoplasia) whether war caused or not;
•
pulmonary tuberculosis whether war-caused or not;
•
posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) whether war-caused or not; anxiety and/or depression, whether warcaused or not; and
•
symptoms of unidentifiable conditions, until diagnosed, where a claim is lodged within 15years of eligible
service ( being other than peacetime service). This is subject to certain additional requirements.
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A White Card is issued to former members of the Australian Defence Force who have accepted conditions
under the Safety, Rehabilitations and Compensation Act 1998 (SRCA) and ongoing treatment needs.
Note: Services available to these veterans may be different from those available to
Australian veterans.
A White Card may be issued to former members of the Australian Defence Force, current part-time Reservists,
cadets and, in limited circumstances, to full-time members under the Military Rehabilitation and
Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA) who have a medical condition accepted as service related under the MRCA.
In certain circumstances, members and former members with warlike or non-warlike service with effect from
1 July 2004 may also be provided with a White Card under the VEA for the treatment of malignant neoplasia,
pulmonary tuberculosis, posttraumatic stress disorder or anxiety and/or depression, irrespective of whether
those conditions are war-caused or not.
I.3
ORANGE CARD
Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Card (Orange Card) - A factsheet on this subject can be
found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet HSV69
This Factsheet describes the benefits available with your Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Card (RPBC)
(Orange Card), and should be read in conjunction with DVA Factsheet HSV92 Repatriation Pharmaceutical
Benefits Scheme.
What is the Orange Card? The Orange Card is for pharmaceuticals only and cannot be used for any
medical or other health care treatment. It gives you access to the subsidised pharmaceuticals and medicines
under the Repatriation Pharmaceuticals Benefits Scheme (RPBS). Please see Factsheet HSV92 Repatriation
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS) for more information about the RPBS.
Who can obtain an Orange Card? An Orange Card is issued to Commonwealth and allied veterans and
mariners who: • have qualifying service from World War I or II
• are aged 70 years or over; and • have been resident in Australia for 10 years or more.
Who is a Commonwealth or allied veteran or mariner? A Commonwealth or allied veteran or mariner is a
person who, as a member of the defence force established by a British Commonwealth or allied country,
rendered continuous full time service during a period of hostilities, in connection with war or warlike
operations in which the Australian Defence Force was involved.
An allied mariner is a person who, between 3 September 1939 and 29 October 1945, was employed as a
mariner in sea-going service on a ship that was operated by, or on behalf of, an allied country. Further details
are available on Factsheet IS64 Allied Mariners.
There are restrictions on some veterans and mariners from particular countries and within certain limited
periods of service.
Chapter 2 - Page 23
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Part J
Health Care
J.1- Local Medical Officer and Medical Specialist Services for the Veteran Community
Factsheet HSV80
Purpose This Factsheet describes how you can access DVA funded medical services from your Local Medical
Officer (LMO) and medical specialists. It also provides information on the eligibility criteria required to
access these services.
What is a Local Medical Officer? A LMO is a general practitioner (GP) who provides medical care to
eligible members of the veteran community.
What is a medical specialist? A medical specialist is a medical practitioner who is qualified to practice a
particular specialty of medicine.
Who is eligible? If you have a DVA Gold Card, DVA will pay for medical services, available through DVA
arrangements, to meet your clinical needs. For more information please see Factsheets HSV59 Eligibility for
DVA Health Card — For All Conditions (Gold) and HSV60 Using the DVA Health Card — For All
Conditions (Gold).
If you have a DVA White Card, DVA will pay for medical services provided through DVA arrangements, if
they are required because of an accepted war or service caused injury or disease. For more please see Factsheet
HSV61 DVA Health Card — For Specific Conditions (White).
Allied veterans are eligible for treatment of war caused disabilities accepted by the entitled person’s country of
enlistment. For more information please see Factsheet HSV62 Commonwealth and Other Allied Veterans
Living in Australia for specific information on the services available.
For more information please see Factsheets
HSV59 Eligibility for DVA Health Card – For all conditions (Gold) and
HSV60 Using the DVA Health Card Hospital For all Conditions (Gold).
If you have a DVA White Card, DVA will pay for medical services provided through DVA
arrangements, if they are required because of an accepted war or service caused injury or
disease. For more please see Factsheet HSV61 DVA Health Card – For Specific Conditions
(White).
Allied Veterans are eligible for treatment of war caused disabilities accepted by the entitled person’s
country of enlistment. For more information please see Factsheet HSV62 Commonwealth and Other
Allied Veterans Living in Australia for specific information on the service available.
J.2 Factsheet HSV99 – MENTAL SUPPORT
Purpose This Factsheet outlines mental health services for the veteran and ex-service community.
When do I seek mental health support? If you are worried about how you are feeling or coping, then
help is available. You may be feeling sad, anxious, or angry. You may be troubled by memories,
drinking too much, not sleeping or having difficulties relating to family or friends. It’s not unusual to
have these feelings, or to experience problems after stressful events or during stressful periods in life.
If these symptoms persist and get in the way of you enjoying life or meeting your responsibilities,
there are steps you can take.
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J.3 HOSPITAL - Factsheet HSV74
Purpose This Factsheet describes how you can access hospital services under Department of
Veterans’ Affairs arrangements.
Am I eligible? If you hold a Repatriation Health Card – For All Conditions (Gold Card) or a
Repatriation Health Card For Specific Conditions (White Card) you are eligible to receive hospital
services under DVA’s arrangements.
DVA will pay for all hospital services that meet the clinical needs of Gold Card holders.
DVA will pay White Card holders hospital treatment costs required for:
• an accepted war or service caused injury or disease;
• malignant cancer (neoplasia);
• pulmonary tuberculosis;
• posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and
• anxiety and/or depression.
PROVIDERS - HOSPITAL ADMISSION and DISCHARGE Factsheet HIP40 Purpose This Factsheet provides information to medical providers about DVA’s hospital
arrangements.
Who is eligible for health care under DVA’s hospital arrangements? Patients holding a Repatriation
Health Card – For All Conditions (Gold Card) or a Repatriation Health Card – For Specific Conditions
(White Card) are eligible to receive health care under DVA’s hospital arrangements.
DVA will pay for all necessary hospital treatment for Gold Card patients.
DVA will pay White Card patients’ hospital treatment costs required for:
• an accepted war or service caused injury or disease;
• malignant cancer (neoplasia);
• pulmonary tuberculosis
• posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and
• anxiety and/or depression.
J.4 Convalescent - Factsheet HSV77
Purpose This Factsheet provides information on convalescent care services available to the veteran
community.
What is convalescent care? Convalescent care refers to a short period of non-acute care that is provided to
assist your recovery from an illness or operation. It is prescribed by your treating doctor or other health care
provider and will immediately follow an acute hospital admission.
The primary purpose of convalescent care is to prevent your functional and current health status from
deteriorating whilst you are restricted in your activity following an acute illness, accident or surgical
procedure.
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Examples may include, but are not limited to, entitled persons who are waiting on:
• the completion of home modifications essential for discharge;
• the provision of specialised equipment or community services essential for discharge;
• rehousing or supported accommodation such as hostel or group home bed; or
• community services that are not yet available but which are essential for discharge.
J.5 Chiropractic Services - Factsheet HSV13
Purpose This Factsheet describes how you can access chiropractic services for the treatment of conditions
caused by musculo-skeletal dysfunction.
What are chiropractic services? Chiropractic services treat musculo-skeletal dysfunction involving a system of
therapy based upon interactions of the spine and nervous system. Treatment can include spinal manipulation,
also known as chiropractic adjustment, and corrective exercises. Manipulation, or adjustment, of affected
joints and tissues restores mobility, alleviates pain and muscle tightness to allow tissues to heal. These services
must be delivered by an accredited Chiropractor.
J.6 Osteopathic Services - Factsheet HSV14
Purpose This Factsheet describes how you can access osteopathy services for the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.
What are osteopathic services?
Osteopathy, also known as osteopathic medicine, involves soft tissue work, stretching and manipulation of the
bones and muscles to promote mobility and restore the body’s balance. Osteopathic services treat
musculoskeletal conditions such as; back and neck pain, headache, joint pain, arthritis, repetitive strain injuries
(RSI), vertigo, sciatica, sports injuries and tendonitis. These services must be delivered by an accredited
Osteopath.
J.7 Community Nursing Services - Fact Factsheet HSV16
Purpose This Factsheet is about community nursing services, who is eligible to receive these services and
how you can apply.
What is community nursing?
Community nursing provides clinical nursing and/or personal care services to eligible members of the veteran
community in their own home. Community nursing services can assist with medication, wound care, hygiene
and help with showering or dressing.
Community nursing services can help to restore or maintain your health and independence at home and assist
you to avoid early admittance to hospital or residential care.
Community nursing services are provided by a mix of personnel including registered and enrolled nurses and
nursing support staff, who work within the framework of their relevant national standards
J.8 Dental Services - Factsheet HSV17
Purpose This Factsheet describes how you can access dental services.
What are dental services?
Dental services involve the prevention and treatment of oral disease and include general dental services, the
filling and crowning of teeth and the construction of dentures.
J.9 Optical Services and Supplies - Factsheet HSV18
Purpose This Factsheet is about how to access optical services and supplies and who is eligible.
What are optical services? Optical services include clinical testing of the eyes for defective vision and the
supply of suitable spectacles, contact lenses or devices for low vision.
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J.10 Physiotherapy Services for the Veteran - Factsheet HSV19
Purpose This Factsheet describes how you can access physiotherapy services
What are physiotherapy services? Physiotherapists treat physical, respiratory and neurological
conditions using techniques such as massage, manipulation and exercise
J.11 Podiatry and Medical Grade Footwear Services - Factsheet HSV20
Purpose This Factsheet is about how to access podiatry and medical grade footwear services and who is
eligible.
What are podiatry and footwear services? Podiatry services include diagnosis, routine maintenance, selected
soft tissue surgery, and physical therapy on your feet. Treatment may also include the prescription of medical
grade footwear, footwear modifications and orthoses.
J.1 Dietetic Services - Factsheet HSV21
Purpose This Factsheet is about how to access dietetic and nutritional services and who is eligible.
What are dietetic services? Dietetic and nutritional services help you to manage your health through
dietary and nutritional support. This may involve you modifying your food and/or supplement intake
J.13 Occupational Therapy Services for the Veteran Community - Factsheet HSV23
Purpose This Factsheet describes how you can access occupational therapy services .
What is occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy is a course of treatment or counseling/education to help a person maximise
physical, psychological, social and vocational abilities that have been disrupted because of accident or
illness or congenital conditions.
Treatment may include the prescription of appropriate rehabilitation aids.
J.14 Speech Pathology Services - Factsheet HSV27
Purpose This Factsheet provides information on how you can access speech pathology services.
What are speech pathology services? Speech pathologists assess, diagnose and manage disorders of
speech and language. They also deal with swallowing issues.
J.15 Diabetes Educator Services - Factsheet HSV29
Purpose This Factsheet provides you with information on how to access services relating to diabetes
education.
What are diabetes educator services?
Diabetes educators can assist you in managing your diabetes with the aim of enhancing your knowledge about
diabetes and self-management of your condition.
The activities conducted by a diabetes educator include teaching about:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
the type of diabetes you have
managing your nutrition
incorporating physical activity into your lifestyle
using medications effectively
monitoring blood glucose results and using the results to improve control
problem solving for high and low blood glucose levels and sick days
reducing risks of diabetes complications; and
adjusting work, family and social roles.
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J.16 Exercise Physiology Services - Factsheet HSV30
Purpose This Factsheet provides information on the eligibility requirements for exercise physiology services.
It also provides information on how to access these services.
What is exercise physiology?
Exercise physiology services include the delivery of clinical exercise interventions to manage chronic disease
and the provision of post-acute exercise rehabilitation for people recovering from major injury or illness.
Exercise physiology contributes to the management of:
•
•
•
•
•
•
diabetes
cardiovascular disease
osteoporosis
arthritis
cancer; and
muscular conditions of a chronic nature.
J.17 Repatriation Medical Authority - Factsheet HSV92
Purpose This Factsheet describes how you can get access to concessional pharmaceuticals under the
Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
What is the Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme?
The Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS) provides a wide range of pharmaceuticals and
dressings at a concessional rate for the treatment of eligible veterans, war widows/widowers, and their
dependants.
The RPBS allows you access to all items listed in the Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits (SPB) available to
the general community under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), and also an additional list contained
in the Repatriation Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits (RSPB) which is available only to veterans.
J.18 Medication Reviews in the Community DVA Factsheet HSV90
Purpose This Factsheet describes the medication review services available to eligible veterans, war
widow(er)s and dependants who are living independently within the community.
What is a medication review?
A medication review is an appraisal of all prescribed, over-the-counter and complementary medicines you may
be taking.
A review assists your doctor and pharmacist to improve your medication use and prevent potential drug
interactions and dose-related problems, as well as helping you understand your medication regimen.
There is a range of medication review services available to assist you manage your medicines, which can take
place at your local pharmacy or in your home.
These services include:
• MedsCheck,
• Diabetes MedsCheck,
• Home Medicines Review (HMR), and
• Residential Medication Management Review (RMMR)
When should a medication review service be considered?
To encourage quality use of medicines, a medication review may be considered if an entitled person is:
• taking 5 or more medications;
• has had a number of changes to their medicines;
• experiencing symptoms suggestive of an adverse drug reaction or drug interaction;
• showing lack of response to a medication;
• has been recently diagnosed with or having difficulty controlling type 2 diabetes; or
• has recently been discharged from hospital.
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Other veterans also considered by their doctor to be at risk of medication-related adverse events may also be
referred to a service.
J.19 Dose Administration Aid Service - Factsheet HSV93
Purpose This Factsheet explains what a Dose Administration Aid (DAA) Service is, why you might use it and
how to access the DVA DAA Service.
What is a DAA?
A Dose Administration Aid, commonly known as a DAA, is a package that arranges medicines according to
the day and time they should be taken. It is packed specifically for each patient by their pharmacist.
J.20 Coordinated Veterans` Care Program - Factsheet HSV101
Purpose This Factsheet explains what the Coordinated Veterans’ Care Program is and how you can
participate.
What is the Coordinated Veterans’ Care (CVC) Program?
CVC is a team-based program designed to increase support for Gold Card holders with one or more targeted
chronic conditions, complex care needs and who are at risk of unplanned hospitalisation.
The Program uses a proactive coordinated model of care to improve the management of chronic conditions
and quality of life for eligible Gold Card holders. The care team generally comprises a General Practitioner
(GP), a nurse coordinator and you - the Gold Card holder.
CVC aims to assist you to better understand your health and provide support in selfmanaging your conditions
using a Comprehensive Care Plan. This plan is developed in consultation with you and you will receive a
patient-friendly version.
Who is the CVC Program for?
CVC is for Gold Card holders who meet all of the following criteria:
• are living in the community (not in a Residential Aged Care Facility)
• have been diagnosed with one or more of the following chronic conditions:
o congestive heart failure
o coronary artery disease o pneumonia
o chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or
o diabetes.
• have complex care needs, and
• are at risk of unplanned hospitalisation
J.21 Rehabilitation Appliances Program - Factsheet HSV107
Purpose
This Factsheet provides information about the Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP) including who is
eligible, what aids and appliances are available and how to access them.
What is RAP?
RAP helps eligible members of the veteran community to be independent and self-reliant in their own homes.
Health care assessments and the provision of aids and appliances help to minimise the impact of disabilities,
enhance quality of life and maximise independence. RAP provides equipment according to each persons
assessed clinical need as part of the overall management of their health care
1. Home modifications and household adaptive appliances
DVA will pay for home modifications and household appliances if you have an assessed clinical need. By
providing this service, we hope you can continue living in your own home with:
• improved independence and safety
• reduced need for a carer
• lower likelihood of moving away from your family, friends and community; and
• reduced risk of falls.
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What else do I need to know about home modifications and household adaptive appliances?
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
2.
Home modifications will only be provided for one residence.
You do not need to own your home, but the owner must confirm you have been, or will be, a longterm resident.
The owner must approve all modifications in writing and agree that
DVA will not restore the property to its former state when the modifications are no longer required
DVA will only pay for home modifications completed by licensed builders.
DVA will not pay for repairs or maintenance to your home.
Continuous Positive Airways Pressure (CPAP)
You can get CPAP equipment from DVA if you have obstructive sleep apnoea.
A CPAP machine may help you breathe more easily during sleep. When the supplier receives the prescription
from your doctor or health professional, they will:
• contact you to arrange delivery of your CPAP equipment
• fit you with a face mask
• show you how to operate your equipment
• give you instructions about the proper care and use of your equipment; and
• provide you with their contact details.
3.
Personal Response Systems (PRS)
PRS, also known as Emergency Alarm Systems (EAS) or Personal Emergency Alarm Systems (PEAS), enable
you to seek assistance quickly in an emergency. Intercom systems, sound monitors and mobile and
portable/cordless phones are not classed as PRS and are not paid for by DVA.
4.
Provision of Oxygen Supplies
If you are assessed as needing oxygen by your specialist, they will arrange supply through one of DVA’s
national contracted suppliers: Air Liquide Healthcare (ALH) Phone: 1300 360 202 (toll-free from landlines)
BOC Limited Phone: 1800 050 999 (toll-free from landlines)
J.22 Ambulance Services - Factsheet HSV120
Purpose
This Factsheet covers DVA’s policy about ambulance services. It includes who is eligible, when DVA pays
and how to arrange this service.
Am I eligible?
If you hold a DVA Health Card — For All Conditions (Gold) you are eligible for ambulance services for the
treatment of all health conditions, subject to your clinical need.
If you hold a DVA Health Card — For Specific Conditions (White) you are eligible for ambulance services,
subject to your clinical need, for ambulance services relating to:
• the treatment of your DVA accepted injury or disease
• malignant cancer (neoplasia) • pulmonary tuberculosis
• post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and
• anxiety and/or depression.
J.23 Alternative Therapies - Factsheet HSV131 Purpose
This Factsheet covers the current policy on alternative therapies under DVA Health Card arrangements.
What are alternative therapies?
Under DVA arrangements, alternative therapies include:
• acupuncture and acupressure
• aromatherapy • homeopathy
• hypnotherapy and hypnosis
• massage or therapeutic touch
• meditation
• music therapy
• reflexology and relation therapy
• reiki
• tai chi; and
• yoga.
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What alternative therapies does DVA cover?
Under Gold and White Card arrangements, entitled persons cannot access funding for services offered by any
alternative therapy providers, such as masseurs, naturopaths or homeopaths.
In 2010, DVA reviewed the policy related to alternative therapies for Gold and White Card holders. This
review considered evidence for alternative therapies, including the qualifications and regulation of alternative
therapy providers and how veteran agencies overseas deal with alternative therapies.
Unfortunately there was often only limited information available on the evidence for the effects of an
alternative therapy including the methodological quality of known reviews where the number of trials tends
to be low.
The review indicated there was not enough evidence to make recommendations about safety or efficacy of a
particular therapy.
On this basis DVA could not be confident that funding the above alternative therapies by alternative therapy
providers under DVA arrangements would have significant benefits for patients, be cost-effective or practical
to implement at this time. A copy of this review is available upon request.
J.24 DVA Arranged Transport Under the Repatriation Transport Scheme - Factsheet HSV03
Purpose
This Factsheet briefly describes how entitled persons can receive DVA arranged transport under the
Repatriation Transport Scheme when attending a health provider for approved medical treatment.
Note: If your treatment relates to conditions accepted under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act
2004 (MRCA) or the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (SRCA) your travel entitlements may
vary from those outlined in this Factsheet. Please contact DVA general enquiries using the details listed under
‘More Information’ at the end of this Factsheet.
What is DVA arranged transport under the Repatriation Transport Scheme? The Repatriation Transport
Scheme (RTS) allows DVA to provide a pre-booked taxi or hire car service under the Booked Car Scheme
(BCS) for travel to approved treatment locations from your permanent residence. If you are travelling away
from home and require medical treatment, DVA can also provide this service to and from your temporary
residence.
The Booked Car Scheme is an additional service provided under the RTS that assists more aged and frail
entitled persons with assistance to travel to their treatment.
To be eligible for any transport assistance under the RTS you must be a:
• DVA Health Card - For All Conditions (Gold) holder, you are entitled to assistance with transport for the
treatment of all health conditions; or
• DVA Health Card - For Specific Conditions (White) holder, you are entitled to assistance with transport for
the treatment of their DVA accepted disabilities.
Please consider taking out travel insurance if you are travelling away from your home.
Am I eligible for a DVA arranged taxi or hire car under the Booked Car Scheme?
• If you are aged 80 years of age or over, you are entitled to a DVA arranged car with driver to attend all
approved treatment locations.
• If you are suffering from dementia, or are legally blind, you are entitled to a DVA arranged car with driver to
attend all approved treatment locations.
If you are aged 79 years or younger you can declare your eligibility for a DVA arranged car with driver if you
have any of the following medical conditions:
J.25 Factsheet HSV02 – Claiming Travelling Expenses Under the Repatriation Transport
Scheme
Purpose
This Factsheet describes how entitled persons can claim for travelling expenses relating to travel for treatment
purposes under the Repatriation Transport Scheme (RTS).
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Am I eligible?
You are eligible if you hold a DVA Health Card — For All Conditions (Gold). DVA will provide assistance
towards travelling expenses to medical treatment.
You are eligible if you hold a DVA Health Card — For Specific Conditions (White). DVA will provide
assistance towards travelling expenses for the treatment of accepted disabilities.
If you are eligible under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA) or the Safety,
Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (SRCA), please contact DVA (details provided under More
Information on this Factsheet) to discuss your individual travel entitlements as they may vary from what is
shown in this factsheet.
J.26 Health Providers – Veterans’ Transport Information - Factsheet HIP80
Purpose
This Factsheet outlines travel assistance available to entitled persons under the Repatriation Transport Scheme
when they need to attend approved treatment.
Note: Persons with eligibility under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA) or the
Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (SRCA) may have entitlements that vary from those
outlined in this Factsheet.
They are advised to contact DVA using the general enquiries details listed under ‘More Information’ at the end
of this Factsheet for further information.
What assistance is available under the Repatriation Transport Scheme?
DVA may provide financial assistance with travelling expenses for entitled persons to attend a health provider
for medical treatment within Australia.
DVA may arrange transport under the Booked Car Scheme (BCS) for travel to approved treatment locations.
Under the BCS, DVA provides taxi or hire car transport to and from approved treatment locations and the
eligible persons permanent residence, or temporary residence if the person requires medical treatment when
travelling away from home.
The BCS provides a quality, timely and reliable service, using contracted local transport providers who are
committed to providing trained drivers aware of the needs of the veteran community, especially aged and frail
veterans and war widows.
Who is eligible for assistance under the Repatriation Transport Scheme? Eligible persons include: • DVA
Health Card - For All Conditions (Gold) holders eligible under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA) are
entitled to assistance with transport for the treatment of all health conditions; and • DVA Health Card - For
Specific Conditions (White) holders eligible under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA) are entitled to
assistance with transport for the treatment of their DVA accepted disabilities.
J.27
Community Transport
Many community-based organisations are funded through a range of government and charitable sources. The
purpose of providing community transport is to meet the needs of specific groups in the community including
isolated families, the frail aged, younger people with disabilities and their carers.
Volunteers usually work through community transport groups including Home and Community Care (HACC),
local councils, Lions, Rotary or other service clubs and some ex-service organisations. You or your health
provider will need to contact the local council, or Community Health Centre to see if community transport is
available in your area.
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When travelling for treatment, DVA may reimburse community transport contributions, where this amount is
considered reasonable.
DVA has online services called MyAccount. These online services include the ability to claim
for your travelling expenses online. You are able to claim reimbursement for return medical trips regardless of
which Act (VEA, SRCA or MRCA) applies. Using the online service also enables up to 10 trips to be claimed
at once. Further information about MyAccount online services is available at www.dva.gov.au
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Part K Veterans’ Access Network (VAN)
Through working in and with local communities, the Veterans’ Access Network (VAN) assists veteran
communities in accessing services and information for an independent and secure lifestyle. Members of the
Veterans’ Access Network work with the veteran community to develop services to address identified gaps in
local areas.
VAN will:
•
answer queries about entitlements and the Department’s services;
•
inform clients of the services available in their community;
•
assist in developing services in local communities;
•
educate service providers about the Department of Veterans’ Affairs;
•
work with local service providers to give veterans and war widow(er)s access to appropriate
services;
•
work with veterans, war widow(er)s and ESOs to develop programs to meet their lifestyle
and health needs;
•
represent and work with other Departmental services to ensure veterans and war
widow(er)s receives effective and efficient Departmental services (e.g. Veterans’ Health
Week, Health Advisers, Joint Ventures, etc).
VAN offices have been set up around Australia. Capital city offices will be operated from existing Branch
Offices with outposted offices located in areas where there are large veteran communities. To contact your
nearest Veterans’ Access Networking
General inquires
133 254
Non-metropolitan
1800 555 254
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Part L War Graves
War Graves-A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet WG01
The Office of Australian War Graves:
•
•
•
•
Provides and maintains official commemorations of veterans of the Australian armed forces
who have died in war or conflict, and of eligible veterans who have died after war or conflict
of causes related to their service in that war or conflict.
Provides permission, on behalf of the Department of Defence, to use the Service emblem on
the graves of all veterans;
Provides historical information in respect of those who have died in war or conflict; and
Provides and maintains official Australian memorials overseas.
For veterans who served in the Second World War, Korean War and Vietnam War, a letter of Permission can
be downloaded from the relevant Nominal Roll website – www.ww2roll.gov.au, www.koreanroll.gov.au,
www.vietnamroll.gov.au. The permission letter should then be given to whoever is arranging the memorial on
your behalf. In some instances the website may direct you to OAWG for the permission letter.
For veterans who served in the First World War and other conflicts, families can make
application to OAWG for use of the relevant Service emblem on the burial plaque or
memorial of anyone who has served in Australia’s military forces.
If you wish to apply, write to The Office of Australian War Graves, GPO Box 9998, Canberra
ACT 2601 or e-mail wargraves@dva.gov.au. Proof of service must be included with your application. If this is
not available provide as much detail as possible about the veteran’s
service (e.g. Service number, rank and unit). The Office will then provide a letter of permission
to be given to whoever is arranging the memorial on your behalf.
Permission to use the Service emblem or insignia is provided free of charge. However, all
costs and arrangements for erecting a private plaque or memorial are the responsibility of the
person making the arrangements.
How to Obtain a Memorial- A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website
www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet WG02
Official commemoration consists of provision of an official memorial at either the site of
interment or by placement of a plaque only in an official Office of Australian War Graves
(OAWG) Garden of Remembrance. The memorial is provided and maintained in perpetuity
by the OAWG for veterans of the Australian armed forces who die in war or conflict, or
eligible veterans who die after a war or conflict of causes related to their service in that war
or conflict. In this context war or conflict means service in a World War or Operational,
Peacekeeping, ‘Warlike’ or ‘Non-Warlike’ service after World War II.
In this context war or conflict means service in a World War or Operational, Peacekeeping, ‘Warlike’ or ‘NonWarlike’ service after World War II.
Who is eligible?
The following groups of Australian veterans are eligible for official commemoration:
•
•
•
•
A member of the Australian Defence Force who died whilst on War Service,
Operational Service, Peacekeeping Service or ‘Warlike’ or ‘Non-Warlike’ Service;
A veteran whose death has been accepted by the Repatriation Commission or the
Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission as being due to service in war or conflict;
or
A veteran in receipt of a Special Rate (T&TI) Pension, an Extreme Disablement
Adjustment (EDA), a Temporary Special Rate Pension (TSR) or an Intermediate Rate Pension
(INT) at the time of death and where the veteran has seen service in a war or conflict; or
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A veteran who is a multiple amputee as defined in Section 27.1 of the Veterans’
Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA) on maximum pension rate where service in a war or conflict has
been proven; or
An ex-prisoner of war; or
A Victoria Cross recipient.
•
•
•
What types of memorials are available?
The OAWG provides standard memorials in a:
•
•
•
Cemetery or lawn cemetery
Crematorium
Office of Australian War Graves Garden of Remembrance
In order to ensure that all veterans are commemorated equally and uniformly, all memorials
provided by the Office:
•
•
•
Are uniform in design for each type of memorial and to the area of the particular
cemetery where the memorial is to be placed
Remain the property of the Office of Australian War Graves
May not be altered or amended in any way
Memorial in a cemetery
The OAWG may only provide a standard memorial. It should be noted that the grave must
be completely bare of all monumental work such as kerbing, plaques, headstones before the
Office can provide an official memorial.
In a cemetery other than a lawn cemetery, the OAWG provides a standard concrete
memorial, consisting of kerbing, infill, headstone and bronze plaque.
In a lawn cemetery, depending on cemetery regulations, a bronze plaque can usually be
provided. The Office provides a single plaque only for the eligible veteran.
Bronze plaques for cemetery memorials are inscribed with the Service badge, initials and
Surname, Service details, date of death, age of the veteran and an optional personal message and/or religious
More information
If you need more information or further assistance you can ring, fax, e-mail or write to:
The Office of Australian War Graves
GPO Box 9998
CANBERRA ACT 2601
Fax: 02 6289 4861
E-mail: wargraves@dva.gov.au
Internet: www.dva.gov.au
• 133 254 – general inquiries
• 1800 555 254 – non-metropolitan callers.
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Chapter 3
Community Services
Important Information
This information is a guide only and should be confirmed by contacting the relevant Welfare
Agency and by reading the latest DVA Fact Sheets to ascertain the most recent information.
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Part A Concession Cards, Aged Support and Advocacy
A.1 Pensioner Concession Card (PCC)
Pensioner Concession Card- A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website
www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet IS125
This Factsheet provides information about some of the concessions available throughout Australia to all
Pensioner Concession Card (PCC) holders. Factsheets are also available for each state detailing concessions
offered to PCC holders in that state.
PCCs are issued by the Australian Government through DVA to:
• service pensioners
• age pensioners who receive their pension through DVA
• war widows and widowers receiving an income support supplement.
Note: To be eligible for a PCC you must:
•
be receiving one of the income support pensions mentioned above; and
•
be an Australian resident. Your Australian residency is determined primarily by the nature of your
accommodation in, and ties to, Australia, and your intention to remain in Australia permanently.
The cardholder’s name and address appear at the top of the card. If a cardholder has a partner and/or any
dependent children their names will be listed on the centre of the card.
Your PCC is proof that you receive a means tested pension and are eligible to receive certain concessions.
It is issued when you are granted any of the above pensions and then during October/November for each New
Year while you continue to be eligible for the pension.
Your DVA PCC has the same status as a PCC issued by Centrelink. Both cards provide access to the same
concessions.
The PCC entitles the card holder to benefits from the Australian Government, including:
•
Pharmaceutical Benefits
•
The Medicare Safety Net threshold available to Commonwealth concession card holders
•
Access to bulk billed GP appointments (at the discretion of the doctor)
•
National Diabetes Services
•
Hearing Services
•
Great Southern Railway Services
•
Discounts on mail redirection from Australia Post.
These concessions may also be available to dependants who are included on your PCC.
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Seniors’ Health Card
A.2
Commonwealth Seniors Health Card- A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA
website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet IS126
This Factsheet explains who is eligible for a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC), and what the card
entitles them to.
The CSHC entitles you to a quarterly payment from DVA of seniors supplement to assist with payment of
energy, telephone, internet, rate, water and sewerage expenses.
The CSHC may entitle you to the following concessions:
•
pharmaceuticals (prescription medicines) at concessional rate through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
(PBS)
•
PBS Safety Net threshold at concession cardholder rate
•
additional concessions from state and local government authorities. For more information contact the
relevant department in your state or territory
•
the Medicare Safety Net threshold available to Commonwealth concession card holders.
It may also give you access to bulk billed GP appointments. For more information visit your local Medicare
office, the Medicare Australia website at http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/dhs/medicare or phone
132 011.
Great Southern Railway Services
CSHC holders are eligible for a discount of up to 55% from Great Southern Railway (GSR) for the following
rail journeys:
•
•
•
The Ghan
The Indian Pacific
The Overland.
For more information regarding discounts, contact GSR on 132 147 or refer to their
websitehttp://www.gsr.com.au/.
A.3
Australian Pensioners’ and Superannuants’ Federation
The Australian Pensioners’ and Superannuants’ Federation (APSF) is a leading consumer voice for
pensioners and superannuants. APSF investigates researches and organises national campaigns on issues
important to their members.
The organisation is a nation-wide network, located in every State and Territory. The network includes
groups affiliated with APSF. Services differ between groups. Many provide information and advice. Some
organise social and other activities.
For more information contact the Federation. Contact numbers can be found in the telephone book.
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
A.4
Council on the Ageing (COTA National Senior Partnership)
COTA is Australia's leading seniors' organisation, with individual members and seniors organisation members
in all States and Territories.
COTA protects and promotes the well-being of all seniors.
COTA is an independent consumer organisation run by and for senior Australians.
COTA has been serving the interests of Australian seniors since 1951.
There is a COTA in every state and territory.
Select your State/Territory on the list to see the contact details for your local COTA Office and a link to the
website for your local COTA; alternatively select the links below on the right to see the details for our three
national bodies:The DVA web site has a link to COTA simply type in COTA in the search box.
Council on the Ageing (COTA) (www.cota.org.au)
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part B
Alcohol and Other Drugs
B.1 Alcohol and Other Drug Services
There are a range of government and community services dealing with alcohol and other drug issues.
These services aim to promote awareness of alcohol and other drug problems and to reduce their
prevalence in society. They are involved in training, education, prevention, early intervention and treatment
programs. Needle and syringe exchange programs are run in many city and regional areas.
Services differ between States. For more information, contact the Alcohol and Other
Drug Service near you. They are listed in the telephone book.
Further information can also be obtained from:
•
‘Smokers’ Information’;
•
directories listed under ‘Health/Community Services Information’ and ‘Welfare
Services information’, in this part of the Handbook;
•
your local council/shire;
•
your local Citizen’s Advice Bureau;
•
Local Hospital; and
•
State Health Departments.
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part C Carer Support
Carers’ Association
C.1
The Carers’ Association of Australia was set up in 1992. The aim of the organisation is to stimulate change
and foster an environment where carers will have access to the best possible quality of life. The Association
works at raising community awareness of carers and providing resources and information to carers.
The type of services offered varies from State to State. Generally the Association:
•
distributes the Carer’s Kit, in all States except WA, where this is done by other organisations;
•
offers support (in some States this extends to counselling);
•
runs support groups in some States; and
•
Organise seminars in some States.
As these activities vary greatly it is best to contact the Carers’ Association of Australia Inc. in your
State for more information. They can be found in your telephone book. Website:
www.carersaustralia.com.au
Veterans’ Home Care
C.2
Home and Community Care
A factsheet on this subject can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au, Factsheet MCS01
This Factsheet provides information to providers about the eligibility criteria for assessment for Veterans’
Home Care (VHC) services. It will also assist in identifying eligible VHC veterans and war widows/widowers,
using information on the new Repatriation Health Cards. The VHC program provides the following services to
eligible members of the veteran community:
• domestic assistance;
• personal care;
• safety-related home and garden maintenance; and
• respite care.
Meals on Wheels (delivered meals), community transport and other social support services are provided
through other programs such as the Home and Community Care (HACC) program, a joint Australian
Government, State and Territory initiative administered by the Department of Health and Ageing.
Other avenues for assistance could be provided through voluntary groups or the Ex-Service Organisation
(ESO) community in the veteran or war widow/widower’s local area.
Access to the VHC program is not automatic. Eligible veterans and war widows/widowers must be assessed as
needing home care assistance before they can receive these services.
Who is eligible to be assessed to receive services
To be assessed for VHC services a person must be:
•
•
•
•
an Australian veteran or mariner; or
a war widow/widower of an Australian veteran or mariner;
and have
a Repatriation Health Card — For All Conditions (Gold Card) or
a Repatriation Health Card — For Specific Conditions (White Card).
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Respite Care and Carer Support - Factsheet HSV06
•
To arrange an assessment call a VHC Assessment Agency on 1300 550 450^ Call from a
landline telephone, as calls from mobile phones cannot be connected to a VHC Assessment
Agency. Purpose This Factsheet provides information about Respite Care and carer support
services available to the veteran community.
•
Who is a carer? A carer can be a friend, partner or family member who provides ongoing
care to a person who is severely incapacitated or frail.
•
What is Respite Care? Respite Care gives carers a break by temporarily relieving them of their
caring responsibilities. DVA offers Respite Care to: • the carer of an eligible veteran, war
widow or widower or dependant (entitled person); • an entitled person who has carer
responsibilities; or • a self carer (residential respite care only).
•
Am I eligible to receive respite care through VHC? You are eligible to be assessed for respite
care through VHC if you have a Gold Card or White Card and are: • an Australian veteran or
mariner; • a war widow or widower; • a dependant of an Australian veteran or mariner; or • a
partner or carer of an entitled person.
Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS) Call VVCS (business hours) or Veterans Line
(after hours) on 1800 011 046*
Purpose This Factsheet provides information about services available to veterans and their families through the
Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS).
What services does VVCS provide? VVCS provides free and confidential, nation-wide counselling and support
for war and service-related mental health conditions, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety,
depression, sleep disturbance and anger. Support is also available for relationship and family matters that can
arise due to the unique nature of the military lifestyle.
VVCS counsellors have an understanding of military culture and can work with clients to find effective solutions
for improved mental health and wellbeing.
VVCS provides the following services: • individual, couple and family counselling and support for those with
more complex needs • services to enhance family functioning and parenting • after-hours crisis telephone
counselling through Veterans Line • group programs to develop skills and enhance support • information,
education and self-help resources • referrals to other services or specialist treatment programs.
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D.1 Family Assistance / Child Support - Projected Estimate
About this service
The new Child Support Scheme began on 1 July 2008. You can use this estimator service to calculate an
estimate of what your new child support and family assistance payments might be after 1 July 2008 when
these changes start.
Important information




You should not rely on an estimate as a guarantee for future income or payment.
This estimator does not affect your current records in any way. If you would like to discuss a change
to your current payments or details please contact us.
If you do not know the other parent's details, you won't be able to use this service. The Child Support
Agency and Family Assistance Office cannot provide the other parent's details to you.
The estimate will be based on the information you provide. If any information is incorrect, the
estimate will also be incorrect.
Estimator Disclaimer:
•
•
•
•
•
The combined child support-family assistance projected estimator is a basic guide to estimating child
support and family assistance under the new Child Support Scheme, which commenced on 1 July 2008.
This estimator uses the most current rates to give you an indication of your payments. The Family
Assistance Office and the Child Support Agency will determine your actual payments using the new rules
and new rates.
The results from using this service are only indicative and are not a guarantee of your child support or
family assistance payments.
You should not rely on an estimate as a guarantee for future income or payment. If you use or apply an
estimate, you are solely responsible for that use or application.
The information used in this estimator is not retained and any details entered are not recorded or used for
official purposes.
D.2 Child Support Review Office
First steps
You will be advised about most Child Support decisions in writing. Read any letters and attachments carefully.
If you think a decision is unclear or contains inaccurate information, contact us on 131 272. We’ll explain the
decision for you and let you know what options are available to you.
Objections
An objection is a request to formally review a decision. You may want to object if you believe we have:



used incorrect information
not considered all the relevant facts
overlooked relevant details or new information has become available
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015


not applied the appropriate law or policy correctly, or
made the wrong decision in the circumstances of your case.
How to object to Child Support decisions
Before you send us your written objection, call us on 131 272 to discuss it, as there may be other options
available to you.
An objection to a Child Support decision must be made in writing (except for an objection to a care percentage
decision see the following section). You can write us a letter or fill in an Objections Form[2], explaining why
you object and asking us to review the decision. To object to a care decision, see 'How to object to care
percentage decisions' below.
Your objection should include the following information:



the date of the letter advising you of our decision and the date you received the letter
the decision to which you’re objecting and the reasons why you think it’s incorrect, and
documents and evidence to support your objection (if available). You can call us to discuss what
evidence you need to provide.
You can post your objection to Department of Human Services, GPO Box 9815, Melbourne, VIC 3001 or
fax it to 1300 309 949*. We must receive your objection within 28 days of you receiving the letter about the
decision
How to object to care percentage decisions about child support and family
assistance
The percentage of care you provide to a child is worked out the same way for child support and family
assistance. This means that one care decision applies to both child support and family assistance.
If the original care percentage decision was made about your child support and you disagree with it, you
can lodge your objection by calling 131 272.
If the original care percentage decision was made about your family assistance and you disagree with it,
you can lodge your objection by calling 136 150.
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Chapter 3 - Page 09
Part E
E.1
Community Information Services
Citizens’ Advice Bureau
The Citizens’ Advice Bureau, sometimes called Community Information Centres & Referral Services,
operates in every State and Territory in Australia. The centres:
•
provide advocacy, information and support to all sections of the community. This may include
shopfront services and the production of information materials;
•
act as a referral agency between individuals and organisations;
•
maintain community information databases; and
•
distribute information for government and community agencies.
Contact your local Bureau for more information. Phone numbers for State Citizens’ Advice
Bureau/Information Centres are in your Telephone Book.
E.2
Local Councils/Shires
Local Councils/Shires are a source of information about local health and community services. They may also
have local directories of health and community services. For more information contact your local council or
shire.
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Part F
Counselling
NOTE: The religious organisations offering welfare services detailed in this
Section provide assistance regardless of any religious affiliation
F.1
Centacare
Centacare is a Catholic Organisation that provides a range of services, one of which is counselling. Mainly
professional counsellors staff Centacare, although trained volunteers provide some services.
Centacare specialises in providing counselling assistance to families and couples. They offer family
therapy, group therapy, marriage guidance counselling and mediation sessions for couples, adolescents
and families.
For more information on other services, call Centacare. The number can be found in your Telephone Book
Website: www.centacare.org.au
F.2
Lifeline
Lifeline is a Christian organisation, which provides a range of services to people, regardless of
religious belief.
The services Lifeline offer are:
•
Crisis Telephone Counselling
•
Face to Face Counselling
•
Financial Counselling
•
Youth Counselling
•
emergency financial relief;
•
marriage and family counselling;
•
TTY service for hearing impaired people;
•
rural crisis counselling;
•
grief and loss counselling;
•
alcohol and substance addiction counselling; and
•
gambling addiction counselling.
These services vary from region to region.
Lifeline can be contacted 24 hours a day on 13 1114 for more details, or for
counselling.
Website: www.lifeline.org.au
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F.3
Relationships Australia
Relationships Australia, previously known as Marriage Guidance Australia, is a national community
organisation which provides a range of relationship support services.
It is a non-profit organisation, which is partly funded by the Federal Attorney General’s Department. Clients
pay a fee on a sliding scale, according to their ability to contribute.
Among the services offered by Relationships Australia are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
education for relationships;
couple and family counselling;
domestic violence prevention services;
marriage enrichment courses;
separation counselling;
mediation for couples seeking a divorce settlement;
youth and family mediation;
re-building courses after separation;
communication skills and family skills courses;
gambling counselling (some States); and
counselling for sexual difficulties.
Services offered by Relationships Australia may differ between centres. For more information on any
services, contact the Head Office in your State, or look for a local office in your telephone book. Website:
www.relationships.org.au
F.4
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army provides a range of services to the needy, one of which includes counselling services.
Counselling/Support services include:
•
•
•
•
•
telephone counselling lines—Salvo Careline and Salvo Youthline;
face-to-face counselling;
drug and alcohol treatment programs, including counselling;
marriage and relationship enrichment groups; and
survivors of suicide groups.
Website: www.salvationarmy.org.au
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part G
Disability Services
G.1 Independent Living Centres
Independent Living Centres are a non-government, non-profit community service. Centres provide
information and advice on equipment and resources for people with disabilities and their carers.
The Independent Living Centres provide:
• an equipment display that contains a range of products and equipment for people with
disabilities of all age groups. Displays may include equipment to help with household or work
tasks, communication, continence, lifting, mobility, leisure and transport;
•
a team of health professionals, primarily Occupational Therapists, but also including
physiotherapists, speech pathologists and nurses can discuss practical problems with clients,
carers and service providers. It is usually necessary to make an appointment to see one of these
health professionals;
•
a telephone/fax/mail advisory service staffed by qualified personnel. Detailed information
is provided on product suitability, cost and suppliers;
a comprehensive computerised database on equipment and resources for people with
disabilities.
mobile units in some States which offer a display and information service to country
areas;
computer and communication equipment at some centres;
a reference library;
a wide range of publications such as booklets, pamphlets and videos; and
workshops and seminars.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Independent Living Centres can be used by any interested members of the community. Client
groups include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
the elderly;
people with disabilities;
carers;
self-help organisations;
students in related fields; and
architects, designers, engineers and builders.
Websites: www.ilc.gov.au
Fees are charged to clients with a compensable injury/illness and or work related injury/illness and/or
their representatives who visit the centres.
For more information contact the Independent Living Centre in your State. The phone number can be found
in your Telephone Book.
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G.2 Nican
Nican is a national non-profit, free, information service on recreation, sport, tourism, the arts and much
more, for people with disabilities. The service has a database of over 4,000 entries on organisations that
offer programs, activities and services, for everyone in the community but specifically for people with a
disability. The service will also provide information on wheelchair accessible accommodation throughout
Australia. Calls are free on 1800 806 769 and there is a reply paid postal service: Nican
Reply Paid 028
PO Box 407
CURTIN ACT 2605
Website: www.nican.com.au
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part H Domestic Violence
All States and Territories have some domestic violence crisis services that offer:
•
immediate referral to safe accommodation for victims of domestic violence;
•
varying levels of support in a crisis (most have a 24 hour line and 1800 lines for country
callers);
•
information;
•
referral to other agencies;
•
support; and
•
community education and awareness.
They are run on a State basis, so services differ. For more information contact your local service. They
are listed in the telephone book.
Chapter 3 - Page 15
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part I
Family and Parenting Support
Family and parenting information, education and support is available from a range of organisations.
Information may also be provided by:
•
Local Councils/Shires;
•
Citizens’ Advice Bureau; and
•
State government health and community services departments.
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part J Education, Employment and Financial
Assistance
NOTE: The religious organisations offering welfare services detailed in this
Section provide assistance regardless of any religious affiliation
J.1 Centrelink
Centrelink is an Australian government agency delivering a range of services to the community.
Centrelink is set up so that people can get more of the help they need in the one place.
Centrelink provides options to match personal circumstances with relevant payments and services.
These can include experiences such as having a baby, looking for work, planning for retirement or
arriving to settle in Australia.
Offices provide information and help previously delivered by several Commonwealth Government
Departments. Information on services provided by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs is also
available at some Centrelink offices.
One of the most useful links on this page is that to Community Group Publications, which lists
an extensive range of publications, newsletters, magazine and other publications, most of which
can be accessed via the internet.
Centrelink also has an ‘Individuals Index’ which will allow you to find out more
information, including payment and service information, about any one of the following
topics:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Are you a parent or a guardian?
Have you recently separated or divorced?
Are you looking for work?
Are you planning to study or undertake training (or currently studying or
training?)
Are you self employed or responsible for a farm?
Are you in a crisis or needing special help?
Have you recently moved to Australia to settle?
Are you someone who is ill, injured or has a disability?
Are you caring for someone who is frail, aged, ill or who has a disability?
Are you needing help after someone has died?
Are you planning for or needing help in retirement?
www.humanservices.gov.au
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
J.2
Welfare Agencies
A number of welfare agencies can provide financial assistance to the needy. Some examples of
national Organisations include:
•
The Salvation Army;
•
The Smith Family; and
•
The Society of St Vincent de Paul.
On a local or regional level there are many other groups who provide help and assistance.
See your local white pages or your local council/shire for more information.
Websites:
Salvation Army
Smith Family
St Vincent de Paul
www. salvationarmy.org.au
www.thesmithfamily.com.au
www.vinnies.org.au
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part K
Health/Community Issues
K.1 Medicare Card
Every Australian citizen and permanent resident is entitled to hold a Medicare card. All veterans and war
widows should hold a Medicare card as well as their DVA Treatment Entitlement Card. In certain
circumstances, it may be more advantageous or necessary for veterans and war widows to claim medical
and treatment costs through Medicare rather than DVA, for example, when travelling interstate or
overseas. White Card holders should have a Medicare card, as they are only covered by DVA for
treatment of service related disabilities.
To obtain a Medicare Card you must present the Medicare Officers with a Birth Certificate, Passport
or Australian Citizenship Document and 2 other forms of identification, e.g.: DVA card, driver’s
license, bank documentation, etc.
www.humanservices.gov.au
K.2 Nutrition
For information on nutrition and related services contact the National Heart Foundation,
National/State Cancer society’s/councils, local doctors, Community Health Centres or the
Dietitians’ Association of Australia.
Websites:
www.heartfoundation.org.au/
www.cancer.org.au
www.daa.asn.au/
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Part L
Health Promotion
There are a number of organisations that provide health promotion services. Some of these are described in
this section. Further information can also be obtained from your State Health Departments.
L.1
Cancer Societies/Councils
In each State and Territory there are is a Cancer Society or Council. The national body is the Australian
Cancer Society Inc. These organisations aim to reduce the incidence and impact of cancer in Australia. They
provide support for cancer sufferers and their families and undertake education programs for the public. For
more information contact the organisation in your State. The numbers can be found in your Telephone Book.
Website: www.cancer.org.au
L.2
Heart Foundation
The National Heart Foundation is a research and health promotion program that aims to reduce the high
incidence of premature death and disability caused by heart disease. The Foundation produces many
information and education booklets covering a range of topics including:
•
healthy eating;
•
giving up smoking;
•
the need to have blood pressure and cholesterol levels checked regularly; and
•
regular exercise.
More information about the Foundation can be found in your Telephone Book.
Website: www.heartfoundation.org.au
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Part M
Health Support Groups
M.1 Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association exists to improve the quality of life of people with dementia and
their carers. The Association is self help, non-profit organisations that operate in all States and
Territories. The National Secretariat is based in Sydney.
The Alzheimer’s Association can assist people with dementia and their carers by providing
information, support, counselling and education.
You can call the Alzheimer’s Association for more information. The phone numbers can be found
in your Telephone Book.
Website: www.fightdementia.org.au/
M.2
Arthritis Foundation
The Arthritis Foundation of Australia provides information and resources on all aspects of arthritis
care. The Foundation can also runs arthritis self management courses to help people manage pain
and stress and exercise programs. Each State has a network of support groups.
The Arthritis Foundation publishes a large number of information leaflets, covering all aspects of
Arthritis. For more information contact the office in your State. The numbers can be found in
your Telephone Book
Website: www.arthritis.org.au
M.3
Diabetes Australia
Diabetes Australia is a community based organisation dedicated to servicing the needs of people
with diabetes.
The organisation is involved in many activities:
•
Membership services—These include information, subsidised products, support groups,
health education, camps and product demonstrations.
•
Advocacy Issues—Assistance, support and information to people with diabetes
who may have been discriminated against. These services are limited and each claim is
assessed on a case-by-case basis.
•
Commercial services—The movement negotiates commercial arrangements with respect
to life and travel insurance and other travel services.
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WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
•
NDSS Administration—This scheme provides subsidised essential supplies to
diabetics such as syringes and test strips. The scheme is administered by Diabetes
Australia and includes registration of participants, distribution of products and
collection of contributions.
•
Health Care and Education services—These vary depending on the individual
local service. They can include consultations, group discussions and
demonstrations on injecting insulin and using blood glucose monitors.
•
Research—Involved in fund-raising.
•
Literature—a wide range of approved books and leaflets is available
and discounted for members.
•
Public awareness—National Diabetes Week is held on the third week in July
each year.
•
Liaison with governments.
For more information on any of these services, contact the office of Diabetes
Australia in your State. The number can be found in your Telephone Book.
Website: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/
Chapter 3 - Page 22
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part N Housing/Accommodation
Housing assistance may include:
•
Cash payments;
•
Short term accommodation (such as refuges and hostels); or
•
Longer term assistance (such as accommodation for families, homeless youth, aged
people and people with disabilities).
This section covers both emergency and non-emergency housing.
N.1 Crisis Accommodation
N1.1
Refuges/Hostels
There are many refuges/hostels in the community. These offer shelter to people who are in danger if
they stay in their usual place of residence, or are homeless. Different refuges and hostels offer
services to different groups of people. For example some refuges are for single women, some are for
families and others for teenagers. Some hostels may accommodate single males. Although people
can contact refuges and hostels directly many people are referred to refuges by a government
department, a health professional, the police, a social worker, or a community agency for example; a
domestic violence, incest or sexual assault service.
Phone numbers are usually listed under the heading of ‘Accommodation’,
‘Emergency Shelter’ or ‘Refuges’ in the telephone book under the health and community
information pages.
N1.2
Welfare Organisations
Many Welfare organisations offer emergency accommodation. These include:
•
St Vincent de Paul Society
www.vinnies.org.au
•
Salvation Army
www salvationarmy.org.au
•
The Smith Family
www.thesmithfamily.com.au
•
Anglican welfare organisations.
www. anglicare.org.au
For more information see:
• your local white pages, particularly the Community Services page;
• your local council/shire; and
• your State Housing Department.
Chapter 3 - Page 23
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
N.2
Veterans’ Emergency Accommodation
A number of ex-service organisations have established emergency accommodation hostels for
short-term emergency accommodation for veterans and their families who:
•
are homeless as a result of crisis;
•
•
are away from home to attend counselling or medical treatment in the City;
need assistance to move towards independent living; or
•
need assistance to re-establish themselves in the community. The
hostels are located as follows:
Western Australia
Cypress Cottage
14 Falkirk Avenue
Maylands WA 6051
Administration: (08) 9221 7010
Northern Territory
Coral House
107 Bagot Rd
Ludmilla NT 0820
Ph: (08) 8948 0050
Zac’s Place (Townsville)
715 Ross River Road
Kirwan QLD 4817
Ph: (07) 4773 6980
Queensland
Angus House
52 Bayliss St
Toowong QLD 4066
Ph: (07) 3870 8743
3-24
Chapter 3 - Page 24
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N.3
Housing Assistance
N3.1
Commonwealth Housing Programs
N3.1.1 Mortgagee and Rent Assistance Program
This program supports tenants experiencing housing-related poverty in the private
rental market. It is particularly available for those who need short-term help for various
reasons, such as illness or unemployment. Other groups serviced by this program are
sole parents and custodial parents after marital or partnership breakdown.
While both the Commonwealth and the States provide the money, the program is
administered differently in different States. Some States provide a general test for
eligibility while others set limits according to loan size and family income.
The scheme is also administered by different organisations in each State. For more
information contact:
ACT ACT Housing and Community Services Bureau
NSW Department of Housing
NT
Department of Land, insert
QLD Department of Public Works and Housing
SA
HomeStart Finance and the South Australia Housing Trust
TAS Department of Health and Community Services.
VIC
Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure)
WA
Department of Housing
N3.2
State Housing Programs
State Departments may provide a variety of housing assistance to eligible people. The
names of these Departments differ from State to State. The numbers are listed in the
telephone book.
Chapter 3 - Page 25
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part O
O.1
Legal Advice
Veterans and Legal Aid
Veterans are entitled to the same legal aid assistance as is available to the rest of the community.
A veteran may apply for legal aid for any legal matter that is not directly related to their war service “For
legal aid for claims regarding their service see para 01.1 below. However, such applications will be
considered on the same merits and means test as any other Australian (e.g. an application for legal aid for a
family law custody matter). For cases in a federal court (i.e. Family Court, Federal Court, High Court), a
veteran may also apply for a grant as assistance towards legal costs.
O1.1 Extra concessions
For AAT cases, veterans may apply to the Commonwealth for legal assistance under section 69 of the AAT
Act 1975 (Cth) (i.e. legal aid to assist appeals to AAT from the VRB). The Commonwealth Legal Aid
guidelines recognise the war service rendered by veterans and offer them non-means tested legal aid for AAT
cases. This is potentially a very generous provision, as apart from Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders, no
other people in Australia are entitled to non-means tested legal aid. Further if the Legal Aid Commission
considers that there is a reasonable prospect of success on appeal, then legal aid may be provided to assist
appeals to the Federal Court or High Court.
O1.2
Applications
A veteran must apply to the Commonwealth Legal Aid Commission for non-means tested legal aid under
section 69 of the AAT Act. The Legal Aid Commission in each State processes the requests by considering
only the merits of the case.
O.2
Community Legal Centres
Community Legal Centres provide free advice and are independent from the government and the Legal Aid
Commission. They are staffed by qualified workers and trained volunteers and are run by management
committees elected from the community.
Community Legal Centres provide:
•
•
•
Legal advice and information;
Community legal education; and
Law reform work.
Generally Community Legal Centres are advice and referral organisations that do not usually represent clients
in court. Most centres give general legal advice. However some centres deals with specialist areas of the law
like immigration or tenancy and some have social or welfare workers available. The services are not means
tested.
For more information contact your local centre. They are listed in the telephone book.
Websites:
QLD
TAS
NSW
SA
VIC
WA
NT
ACT
www.legalaid.qld.gov.au
www.legalaid.tas.gov.au
www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/
www.lsc.sa.gov.au
www.legalaid.vic.gov.au
www.legalaid.wa.gov.au
www.ntlac.nt.gov.au
www.legalaide.act.org.au
Chapter 3 - Page 26
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
O.3
Legal Aid Commission
Legal Aid gives assistance in many areas of the law and is staffed by experienced solicitors.
Services include:
•
legal advice and referral (means test);
•
legal assistance (such as court representation); and
•
a duty solicitor (available to help those who have been arrested and are being held in
custody).
To decide whether a person is eligible for legal aid the Commission looks at:
•
•
•
their income and assets;
their chance of success (merit test); and
the legal problem itself.
(There are certain guidelines for which cases are not likely to get legal aid. For example to get a grant
in a criminal case the client must be likely to get a jail sentence or to lose their job). Some Legal Aid
Centres specialise in providing a specific service, for example services dealing with mental health,
children, prisoners, veterans and child support.
The cost of legal assistance varies depending on the client’s income. If they can afford it, clients
make a contribution towards legal costs. The commission may also place a charge over any property
that the client owns, so that they will be required to pay the contribution when it is sold.
To obtain more information on Legal Aid, see the resources in the back of this file, or contact the
office nearest you. They are listed in the telephone book.
O.4
Veterans’ Advocacy Service (NSW) Legal Aid Commission
The Legal Aid Commission in NSW offers a specialist Legal Aid Centre for veterans. This service provides
advice, assistance and representation at the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and higher courts. It deals with
cases particularly relating to veterans’ pensions, allowances and treatment.
The service is open to:
•
•
•
•
all Australian war veterans and their dependants;
members of the Australian Defence Forces who served after December 1972 and their
dependants;
Australian Mariners and their dependants; and
allied veterans and their dependants (income support pensions only).
In disability and war widows’ pension matters no means test applies, but in all other matters the Legal Aid
Commission means test applies. In addition the normal legal aid merits test applies. The contact numbers
can be found in your Telephone Book. Website: www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/
Chapter 3 - Page 27
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part P
P.1
Mental Health
GROW
GROW is Australia’s only national peer support organisation. GROW is a grass roots organisation
with participants of GROW providing the leadership of the organisation at the branches and the
national Board.
GROW has operated for over 50 years and was established and developed by people living with a
mental illness. GROW’s program of personal growth, group method and sharing,
caring community has been developed from the findings and experience of people with a mental
illness in the course of their recovery and rebuilding their lives.
GROW members share their own experiences and coping strategies in order to help one another.
Members don’t just benefit from one another’s experience but, through mutual sharing, and the
establishment of trust. The mutual support and friendship developed creates a an ongoing network
of support and a community of caring and sharing.
People come to GROW because they have experienced mental illness; depression, anxiety, panic
attacks, and mental and emotional distress.
GROW participants can join in weekly GROW meetings; attend social activities, and education and
information sessions which are structured to assist participants with their personal growth and
development. We also encourage and support GROW participants to undertake leadership
roles and discover their potential.
GROW also provides specialised services including:





Carer groups
Prison groups
Early intervention for youth provided in schools
Supported accommodation
Dual diagnosis (Drug and Alcohol and Mental Illness)
Website: www.grow.net.au
Telephone
1800 558 268
Chapter 3 - Page 28
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part Q
Reproductive Health
Q.1
Family and Parenting Australia
The Family Planning Australia is the national body for the eight individual
State/Territory Family Planning organisations.
The number of Family Planning locations in a State or Territory can range from one
(ACT) to eight (NSW).
Family Planning organisations offer a broad range of services in the area of sexual and
reproductive health. There is a degree of variation in these services between States and
Territories, but the following are core services that would be provided by all Family
Planning organisations.
Q1.1
Clinical Services
Clinical Services which fall into the following categories:
Contraceptive Services
•
oral contraceptives
•
IUDs
•
condoms/spermicide
•
Diaphragm/caps
•
postcoital contraception
•
Periodic abstinence
•
Depo Provera
Sexual and Reproductive Health Management
•
menstrual problems
•
STD/PID
•
cervical smear tests
•
breast examinations
•
HIV testing
•
Rubella and Hepatitis B Immunisation
•
ante and post natal checks
•
pregnancy testing
•
testicular examinations
Chapter 3 - Page 29
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Counselling
•
Pregnancy
•
Sterilisation
•
Subfertility
•
Menopause
•
PMS
•
Sexuality/Relationships
•
Sexual
•
HIV/AIDS/STDs
Referral to other agencies
•
Medical
•
Social
•
Pregnancy Termination
•
Ante natal care
Q1.2
Education and Training Services
Family Planning Centres also offer community and professional education. Professional courses are
available to doctors, nurses, teachers and health and welfare workers. Community Education is
available to schools, tertiary institutions, parents and disability workers. Sessions are also available
for any community group such as women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and youth.
Q1.3
Information Services
All centres have libraries and either bookshops or books available for sale. In addition a wide range of
posters, brochures and videos are available on reproductive and sexual health issues.
Services will vary between Centres, so contact your local centre for more information. They are listed
in the white pages of the telephone directory.
Website: www.shfpa.org.au
Chapter 3 - Page 30
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part R Rehabilitation
R.1
Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service
The Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service (CRS) provides vocational and social rehabilitation for
people with a disability, to assist them in gaining paid employment or living independently in the
community. Disabilities can include physical, sensory, psychiatric and intellectual impairment.
About 80 percent of the CRS clients have paid employment as their primary goal. The remaining 20
percent are assisted to live independently. The CRS has 160 locations throughout Australia.
The CRS employs a wide range of health workers including counsellors, vocational instructors,
social workers, physiotherapists, speech pathologists and occupational therapists, using case
management techniques. Consequently CRS case management techniques target the specific needs
of clients through individually tailored rehabilitation programs conducted in partnership with the
clients.
CRS can offer:
•
individual assessment of the client’s case (including an assessment of functional capacity);
•
vocational counselling;
•
therapy to increase physical tolerance and strength (eg. physiotherapy);
•
formal re-training (e.g. TAFE);
•
on-site work training;
•
employment placement for clients with a disability;
•
the provision of aids and workplace modifications; and
•
vehicle modification and driver training. To take
part in a CRS program a person must:
•
be an Australian resident between 14 and 65 years;
•
have a disability or injury which significantly affects his/her ability to work or live
independently; and
•
after participation in the program, be likely to gain or regain employment or
substantially increase independence.
In most cases rehabilitation services are free. In some cases clients may also be eligible for a
number of allowances from Centrelink, including Training Allowance and living away from home
allowance (if the client has to leave home to do a training course).
Clients do not have to be referred by a doctor. Employers, insurers, doctors, unions can
refer them, or they can refer themselves.
For more information contact the CRS office in your local area. They are listed in the
telephone book under ‘Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service’.
Website: www.crsaustralia.gov.au
Chapter 3 - Page 31
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part S Rural Services
THE Department of Infrastructure and regional Development
Service provided by the “Department of Regional, Local Government, Arts and Sport”. It aims to
increase access to the range of government services and programs that are available to people who
live outside metropolitan areas. Provides information on government services, particularly geared
towards the special needs of rural people. This includes:
• social security pensions and benefits;
• employment, education and training;
• taxation;
• industry assistance and exporting;
• research and development;
• health and community services;
• transport and communications;
• energy conservation; and
• landcare.
Australian Government Regional Services offers:
A toll free line on 02 6274 7111, which is staffed between 8am to 5:30pm
Monday to Friday;
•
a community information stand—an information display unit which is provided to community
groups allowing them to inform people of services and activities;
•
the Australian Government Regional Services shopfront—a team of trained officers
familiar with rural needs who travel to shows and field days throughout Australia; and
Fully trained workers staff the Department of Infrastructure and regional Development
media@infrastructure.gov.au or 02 6274 711
Chapter 3 - Page 32
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
S.2
Multi-Purpose Service Program and Multi-Purpose Centres
S2.1
Multi-Purpose Service (MPS) Program – Department of Health and
Ageing
The objective of the Commonwealth-State Multi-Purpose Service Program is to provide
improved aged and health care services in small rural and remote communities. It enables the
pooling of Commonwealth and State aged care and health funding to provide a more flexible,
co-ordinated and cost effective framework for service provision. The Multi-Purpose Service
Program has three main objectives:
•
provision of an appropriate mix of services to meet individual client needs;
•
improved quality of care for clients; and
•
provision of an appropriate level and mix of service delivery in a cost effective and
coordinated manner. Website: www.health.gov.au then search MPS
S2.2
Multi-Purpose Centres (MPCs)
A Multi-Purpose Centre is a collection of health and community services that are coordinated to meet the needs of a community. Religious, charitable, community-based and
local government bodies can get financial assistance to bring a range of services together into
one centre to provide a base for home and community care services. A number of centres
have been established across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia,
Tasmania and the Northern Territory. The Centres serve as a base for a range of services,
including aged care, acute hospital care, Home and Community Care (HACC), and specialist
medical services.
The MPC strategy is targeted at rural and remote areas that are not able to sustain existing
services or establish new services on a stand alone basis. The strategy is designed to
provide a greater range of services, to improve the quality of services or to increase the
scale of service delivery in a rural and remote area.
A MPC must involve a minimum of three service types, of which the Commonwealth
Department of Health and Aged Care must fund at least one service and Health (including
services funded under joint Commonwealth/State programs, such as HACC).
Examples of services provided through MPCs:
•
•
•
•
community health services;
acute hospital care;
primary health care;
paramedical services and allied health eg physiotherapy, podiatry, nutritional
counselling, occupational therapy, dental service;
•
health promotion;
• community care services e.g. meals on wheels, home help, domiciliary nursing,
palliative care, attendant care, community transport services;
Chapter 3 - Page 33
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
•
aged care;
•
adult day care or day activity services;
•
social work and family counselling;
•
tenancy advice, consumer advice and financial counselling;
•
drug and alcohol counselling;
•
rehabilitation services (through Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service);
•
sexual assault counselling services;
•
emergency housing and crisis accommodation services;
•
childcare services; and
•
child health services.
Note: not all of these services are available through every MPC.
For further information concerning their strategy, the contact numbers can be found in the
Telephone Book or by web search internet
Chapter 3 - Page 34
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part T Sexual Assault
Sexual assault services differ between States. Collectives run some services, while others
are run as part of State health departments.
Generally centres have two types of services:
•
•
24 hour crisis assistance. This service offers counselling, and will also accompany
women to the police and doctor whenever possible;
9 to 5 non-crisis counselling. This provides face-to-face long-term
counselling.
Both services are available for anyone who has been abused, regardless of type of assault
and how long ago the assault took place. Some centres only treat women, but these centres
will refer men to other services who can help.
Services include:
•
Support for survivors of rape, incest and sexual harassment;
•
24 hour crisis service;
•
information about the legal, medical and police process;
•
practical and confidential support;
•
ongoing counselling; referral services;
•
support groups for survivors; and
•
education workshops for the community.
Services may differ from region to region. Contact the centre near you for extra information.
They are listed in the telephone book. Many centres list both a business and a counselling
number.
Chapter 3 - Page 35
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part U Smokers’ Information
U.1
Quit Smoking Agencies
Quit smoking agencies operate independently in each State. They aim to:
•
help people give up smoking; and
•
reduce the exposure of non-smokers to the harmful effects of tobacco smoke. Quit
campaigns use a range of strategies that include:
•
preventing young people taking up smoking (through education, lobbying for
legislative changes etc);
•
encouraging and assisting smokers to quit (through education and self-help
material);
•
reducing exposure to and increasing awareness of passive smoking (through
education materials and lobbying for legislative changes); and
•
supporting legislative and policy change aimed at smoking control.
A range of information resources is available, although these vary from State to State. They
include:
•
general resources for adults such as self help books, quit smoking courses and
information about the effects of smoking;
•
special resources targeted at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, teenagers,
children, parents and people from non-English speaking backgrounds; and
•
information on tobacco advertising, current research and legislative and policy
changes.
For more information contact Quit on 13 78 48
Website: www.quitnow.gov.au
Chapter 3 - Page 36
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part V Sport and Recreation
For more information on sport and recreation services contact:
•
your local Citizens Advice Bureau;
•
your local shire/council; and
•
your State Department concerned with sport and recreation.
Chapter 3 - Page 37
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part W Support Groups for Victims of Crime
There are a number of organisations throughout Australia that provide support to victims
of crime. Support is provided to the direct victims, their families and the wider
community.
The organisations aim to:
•
promote community awareness of victims of crime;
•
lobby for the development of better services for victims of crime and their
families; and
•
promote the rights of victims of crime and their families.
Services include:
•
counselling, advocacy and support;
•
information about victim’s rights and criminal injuries compensation claims;
•
support groups;
•
court preparation programs;
•
community and professional education;
•
de-briefing after traumatic events;
•
support for people going to court; and
•
advocacy for reform of the criminal justice system.
Services may differ between groups. For more information, numbers can be found in
the Telephone Book or by via internet search.
Chapter 3 - Page 38
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part X Welfare Services Information
NOTE: The religious organisations offering welfare services detailed in this
Section provide assistance regardless of any religious affiliation
The following agencies are examples of key national welfare agencies. More information
on local agencies can be obtained from the telephone book, especially the community
services pages in the front of the white pages.
X.1
Anglican Community Services
Anglican operates in all states but operate separately.
The services provide a range of support, care and training for disadvantaged or poor
Australians. Services include:
X1.1 Housing, Income and Labor Market programs
•
emergency financial and material assistance;
•
financial counselling;
•
labour market training; and
•
emergency and short term housing.
X1.2 Community Programs
•
life skills education; and
•
neighbourhood houses.
X1.2.1 Families and youth, family support:
•
personal counselling (family, individual, adolescent);
•
youth housing and support;
•
support to prisoners and their families; and
•
pregnancy support.
X1.2.2 The aged:
•
hostels, nursing homes and independent units;
•
respite care;
•
dementia care; and
•
day programs.
Chapter 3 - Page 39
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
X1.2.3 Other specialised programs:
•
intellectual disability programs and housing;
•
drug and alcohol support and housing;
•
HIV/AIDS programs; and
•
palliative care.
To find out more Google Anglicare which will bring up the Anglicare site in your state.
X.2
Centacare
Centacare is a Catholic organisation, providing generic welfare services to the needy.
The emphasis of the programs is on empowering people to take control of their lives.
There is a strong emphasis on preventative and therapeutic types of programs. Centacare
is staffed mainly by professionals, with trained volunteers providing some services.
The range of services offered include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Counselling services including family therapy and group therapy;
Children’s services such as foster care and respite care;
Programs for the disabled or aged, e.g. community options;
Employment and industrial programs, e.g. Assessment, Training and Employment;
Educational services, e.g. early childhood programs for children with disabilities;
Skillshare programs; and
•
Mediation Programs for couples, adolescents and families.
Generally there is a sliding scale of payment for services, based on the income of the
recipient. However people who cannot afford to pay a fee are never turned away. The
range of services varies greatly from region to region. If your area has a Centacare
service it will be listed in your telephone book.
X.3
St. Vincent De Paul Society
The Society of St Vincent de Paul is a Catholic organisation providing assistance to the
needy, regardless of religious affiliation. The Society is a volunteer organisation that
also runs a wide range of professional services across Australia. While all services will
not be available in all areas, they include:
X3.1
•
•
•
•
Families
Child care
Holiday camps
Budget counselling
Pregnancy counselling centres
Chapter 3 - Page 40
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
X3.2
•
•
•
•
Youth
Drug and alcohol rehabilitation
Crisis centres
Adoption service
City homes for country students
X3.3 Homeless Persons
•
•
Hostels and refuges
Meal centres and meal vans
X3.4 Disabled and Mentally Ill
•
•
•
Community homes
Activity centres
Work centres
X3.5 The Aged
•
•
•
Hostels and nursing homes
Home care services
Retirement villages
X3.6 Prisoners
•
•
Visitation
Half-way houses
X3.7
•
•
Migrants and Refugees
Visiting and accommodating new arrivals
Assistance and counselling
The Society also operates ‘Centres of Charity’ in most areas of Australia. These shops
sell cheap second hand clothing, furniture and goods, as well as provide referral to all
other Society services.
Society members are extensively involved in home visitations, which are made in
response to calls of assistance. The assistance provided varies and may include
financial aid, counselling, companionship, and referral to other Society services or to
other agencies.
To find out what services they provide in your area, ring your local office of the
Society. They are listed in the telephone book (under Saint Vincent...).
Website: www.vinnies.org.au/
Chapter 3 - Page 41
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
X.4
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army provides a range of welfare services to needy people across
Australia. The services they offer include:
•
telephone and face-to-face counselling;
•
crisis accommodation such as emergency shelters for the homeless, youth
refuges and accommodation for women escaping domestic violence;
•
medium term accommodation;
•
long term accommodation for the aged or disabled;
•
drug and alcohol services such as treatment programs, detoxification centres
and education programs;
•
family welfare services, such as food vouchers and other forms of
emergency relief;
•
marriage and relationship enrichment groups;
•
employment services such as training programs, employment creation
programs and supported employment programs;
•
youth services such as drop-in centres and support programs;
•
aged care services such as nursing homes, hostels and community outreach; and
•
survivors of suicide groups.
Services offered by The Salvation Army differ from region to region. For more
information contact your local Salvation Army Office, which is listed in the telephone
book.
Website: www.salvationarmy.org.au/ - Salvo Care Line 1300 36 36 22.
X.5
Smith Family
The Smith Family is a national organisation that provides emergency relief for
individuals or families in need.
Services of the Smith Family include:
•
•
•
•
•
Financial assistance;
Accommodation (for the aged and families in crisis);
Advice and referrals;
Home visits;
Vouchers for electricity (NSW);
Chapter 3 - Page 42
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
•
Vouchers for water rates (Sydney, Illawarra and Blue Mountains areas);
•
Financial Counselling;
•
Clothing;
•
Household goods;
•
English lessons for migrants;
•
EDU-CATE scheme (assistance for high school students); and
•
Christmas hampers and toys.
Services provided may differ from region to region. Contact Number 1800 024 069
Website: www.thesmithfamily.com.au
Chapter 3 - Page 43
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Chapter 4 Abbreviations and
Medical
Classifications
Chapter 4 - Page 01
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part A
Service Abbreviations
AA
AA
AAF
AAMC
AAMWS
AANS
AAOC
AAPC
Anti-Aircraft
Army Act
Australian Army Form
Australian Medical Corps
Australian Army Medical Women’s Service
Australian Army Nursing Service
Australian Army Ordinance
Australian Army Pay Corpd
AASC
AAT
AATTV
Australian Army Service Corps
War Pensions Assessment Appeals Tribunal—(Defunct)
Australian Army Training Team Vietnam
AS
ACD
Able Seaman
Australian Convalescent Depot
ADC
ADMS
ADS
Assistant Deputy Commissioner
Assistant Director Medical Services
Advanced Dressing Station
AFC
AFI
AFPD
AFSR
AFU
AGH
AGX
AIF
Alb +/AJ +/AJ ++
AJ +++
AMD
AME
AMES
AMD
Australian Flying Corps (1914 War)
Australian Field Hospital (First)
Application for Pensionable Degree
Application for Special Rate
Advanced Flying Unit
Australian General Hospital
Act of Grace—1939 War
Australian Imperial Forces
Albumen present/absent
Ankle Jerks present/absent
Ankle Jerks increased
Ankle Jerks markedly increased
Army Medical Directorate
Aero Medical Evacuation Squadron (RAAF)
Aero Medical Evacuation Squadron (USAF)
Army Medical Directorate
AMF
AMR&O
Australian Military Forces
AMS
ANGAU
ANMEF
ANZAC
ANZUK
AOiC
Australian Military Regulations and Orders
Adequate means of support
Australian New Guinea Administrative Unit
Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force, New Guinea
Australia New Zealand Army Corps
Australia New Zealand & United Kingdom
Assistant Officer-in-Charge
Chapter 4 - Page 02
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
ARL
Annual Recreation Leave
Art
ARVN
A&SD
AS(A)
Arteries
Army of the Republic of Vietnam
Administrative and Special Duties—RAAF (normally ground
staff)
Assistant Secretary (Appeals)
ASH
Australian Special Hospital
AV MED
ASH
Aviation Medicine (RAAF)
Australian Special Hospital
AV MED
AWAS
AWL
Aviation Medicine (RAAF)
Australian Women’s Army Service
Absent Without Leave
AWOL
Absent Without Leave (Army and RAAF)
B
Ba
BAGS
BCOF
Board
Barium
Bombing and Gunnery School (RAAF)
British Commonwealth Occupation Forces
Repatriation Board for a State
BO
Branch Office
BP
BP 120/80
BPX
BS
B&T
Blood pressure
BP Systolic 120 millimeters Mercury & Diastolic 88mm Mercury
British pension—1939 War
Breath Sounds
In Boots and Trousers
BMH
BTM
BU
BW
British Military Hospital
Benign Tertian Malaria
Bring up
Bullet (or Bomb) Wound
C
Ca
CAN
CARO
CB
CCP
CCS
CDMS
CDS
CH
C 2 H60 or C 2
H5OH
CiC
CMF
CMO
CMR
Carcinoma
Canada
Central Army Records Office
Confined to Barracks (punishment)
Chronic Catarrhal Otitis Media
Casualty Clearing Station (medical)
Chief Director, Medical Services
Camp Dressing Station (medical)
Camp Hospital
Alcohol
Clerk-in-Charge
Citizens Military Forces
Commonwealth Medical Officer
Central Medical Records (Service Documents)
Chapter 4 - Page 03
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
CO
CO
CO
CPO
Creps
CSF
CSS
CZ
Central Office, Veterans’ Affairs
Complains of
Commanding Officer (Army and Air Force)
Command Pay Office (Army)
Crepitations of
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Cerebrospinal Syphilis
Combat Zone
C&V off
Coat and Vest off
D
DA
DAH
DAPU
D&R
DCM
DCM
DCDMS
DCP
Del
Div 10
DMO
DMS
DMU
DMZ
DRO
DR&Q
DSO
DWS
Domestic Allowance
Disorderly Action of the Heart
Discharged as Permanently Unfit
Diagnosis and Report
District Court Martial (a Military Court)
Distinguished Conduct Medal (an award for gallantry)
Deputy Chief Director, Medical Services
Deputy Commissioner of Pensions, London
Delegate of the Repatriation Commission
Division 10
Departmental Medical Officer
Director, Medical Services
Discharged Medically Unfit
Demilitarised Zone
District Records Office (or Officer)
Discipline Rations and Quarters
Distinguished Service Order
Due to War Service
E
EA
EAT
EATS
ECG
ECT
ED
EEG
EFTS
EMS
ENT
ETA
ETM
Education Allowance
War Pension Entitlement Appeal Tribunal (Defunct)
Empire Air Training Scheme
Electro-cardiogram
Electro-convulsive Therapy
Embarkation Depot (RAAF)
Electro-encephalogram
Elementary Flying Training School (RAAF)
Emergency Medical Services
Ear, Nose and Throat
Evacuate to Australia
Evacuate to Mainland
Chapter 4 - Page 04
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
F
FDS
FESR
FGCM
FIELD
FMB
FND
FP
FSU
FTD
Field Dressing Station
Far East Strategic Reserve
Field General Court Martial (a Military Court)
(or ‘In the Field’ Army—indicates that at the time stated soldier was
not in a hospital, GDD, LTD, etc)
Final Medical Board
Flinders Naval Depot
Field Punishment
Field Surgical Unit
Full-time Duty
G
GA
GD
GDD
GIT
General Anaesthetic
General duties—RAAF (normally air-crew)
General Details Depot (base area)
Gastrointestinal
GOA
GOE
GOGA
Gon
GOP
GOR
GOT
GSW
General Orders Accounts
General Orders Entitlement
General Orders General Assistance
Gonorrhoea (VD 20)
General Orders Pensions
General Orders Registry
General Orders Treatment
Gun Shot Wound
H
HKK
Hong Kong 1939 War
I
ICT
IFBA
IMI
IP
I&R
IR
IVP
Infected Subcutaneous Tissue (Army)
Interim Forces Benefits Act
Instructions for Medical Institutions
In-patient
Investigation and Report
Intermediate Rate
Intravenous Pyelogram
K
KIA
KJs +/KJs ++
KJs +++
KLB
Killed in Action
Knee Jerks present or absent
Knee Jerks increased
Knee Jerks markedly increased
Klebs Loeffler bacilli (Diphtheria)
Chapter 4 - Page 05
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
L
LA
LA
Living apart
Living Allowance
L&A
LC
LDH
LDO
LF
Light and Accommodation
Life Certificate
Lady Davidson Hospital, Turramurra, New South Wales
Local Dental Officer
Letter Form
LO
LOE
Liaison Officer
Loss of Earnings Allowance
L of C
LTD
Lines of Communication (base area)
Leave and Transit Depot
Lues
LWOP
LWP
Syphilis, leutic syphilitic
Leave Without Pay
Leave With Pay
M
MAETU
MACV
Medical Air Evacuation Transport Unit
Military Assistance Command Vietnam
MAL
MASH
MCS
MCS
MEDCAP
Malaya
Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
Military Compensation Scheme
Medical Clearing Station
Medical Civic Action Program
MD
MDS
Military District
1 MD Queensland
2 MD New South Wales
3 MD Victoria
4 MD South Australia
5 MD Western Australia
6 MD Tasmania
7 MD Northern Territory
8 MD New Guinea
Main dressing station
ME
MEDEVAC
Middle East
Medical Evacuation
MF
MI
MIA
MID
MLO
MO
Medical Form
March In (to a unit, GDD, LTD, etc)
Missing in Action
Mentioned in Dispatches (award)
Medical Liaison Officer
Marched Out (from a unit, GDD, LTD, etc)
Chapter 4 - Page 06
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
MO
Medical Officer
MOSU
MLO
Medical Operational Support Unit (RAAF)
Medical Liaison Officer
MRU
MS
MTM
MU
Medical Rehabilitation Unit
Medical Superintendent
Malignant Tertian Malaria
Medically Unfit
N
NA
Not Applicable
NAD
NB
Nothing Abnormality Detected or No Appreciable Disease
New Britain
N/C
N/D
New Claim
New Disability
NDF
NEI
NFD
No Disability Found
Netherlands East Indies
Newfoundland
NG
New Guinea
NGAWWC
NH
New Guinea Air Warning Wireless Co
Naval Hospital
NHL
NICA
NIE
NIF
NME
Non Hodgkins Lymphoma
Netherland Indies Civil Administration
No Incapacity Established
No Incapacity Found
Non Military Employment
NOLD
NPD
NPI
NSR
No osseous lesion detected
Not of Pensionable Degree
Nil Pensionable Incapacity
Non Service-related
NSU
NVA
NWTB
Non specific urethritis
North Vietnam Army
Non War TB
NYD
NZ
NZR
NZX
Not yet Diagnosed
New Zealand 1914 War
New Zealand Regiment
New Zealand 1939 War
Chapter 4 - Page 07
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
O
OBU
OCTU
Operational Base Unit (RAAF)
Officer Cadet Training Unit
OE
On Examination
OiC
Officer-in-Charge
OP
OPC
OPD
OTC
OTU
Out-patient
Out-patient Clinic
Out-patient Department
Officers Training Course
Operational Training Unit
P
PC
PCB
PD
PF
Pension Certificate
Procurement and Contracts Board
Personnel Depot—RAAF (Similar to Army GDD)
Pension Form
PM
Post Mortem
PMRAFNS
PMRB
Princess Mary’s Royal Air Force Nursing Service
Permanent Medical Referee Board
PN
Percussion note
PO
POP
Petty Officer
POW (E)
POW (J)
PR
Plaster of Paris or Paired Organs Policy
Prisoner-of-War (Europe)
Prisoner-of-War (Japan)
Per rectum
PT +
PTD
PTE
Pte
PU
Pulse Tension High
Part-Time Duty
Prior to Enlistment or Prior to Eligibility
Private
Permanently Unemployable
PUGS
PUHS
PUO
Pupils=
PV
PWO
Permanently Unfit—General Service
Permanently Unfit—Home Service
Pyrexia of Unknown Origin
Pupils equal
Per Vagina
Pre-war Occupation
Chapter 4 - Page 08
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
QQ Q
QAINS
QAIMNS
QARANC
QARNNS
Queen Alexandra’s Imperial Nursing Service (British)
Queen Alexandra’s Imperial Military Nursing Service
Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Service
Queen Alexandra’s Royal Naval Nursing Service
R
RAA
RAAF
RAAFNS
RAAMC
Royal Australian Artillery
Royal Australian Air Force
Royal Australian Air Force Nursing Service
Royal Australian Army Medical Corps
RAANC
Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps
RAASC
RAE
Royal Australian Army Service Vorps
Royal Australian Engineers
RAEME
RAF
RA Inf
Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
Royal Air Force
Royal Australian Infantry
RALAC
RAN
RANNS
Repatriation Artificial Limb and Appliance Centre
Royal Australian Navy
Royal Australian Navy Nursing Service
RANS
RANVR
RAP
RAPWI
RAR
Royal Australian Nursing Service
Royal Australian Navy Volunteer Reserve
Regimental Aid Post (Medical, Army)
Repatriation of Allied POWs and internees
Royal Australian Regiment
RBS
RCAF
RCD
RD
R/E
Regs
RGH
RMO
RN
RNZAF
RNZNC
RRD
Right Border Sternum
Royal Canadian Air Force
Right Cardiac Dullness
Receiving Depot (RAAF)
Review of entitlement
Repatriation Regulations
Repatriation General Hospital
Regimental or Resident Medical Officer
Royal Navy
Royal New Zealand Air Force
Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps
Recruit Reception Depot
RR & GDD
RRT
Recruit Reception and General Details Depot
Repatriation Review Tribunal
RTA
RTA
RTO
RTU
RVN
Returned to Australia
Recreation Transport Allowance
Rail Transport Officer
Returned to Unit
Republic of Vietnam (South)
Chapter 4 - Page 09
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
S
SA
South Africa—1914 War
SA
SAI
Supplementary Assistance
Standard Allowed Income
SAP
SAS
Standard Allotment Pension
Special Air Service
SAX
South Africa—1939 War
SCES
SEAC
SFTS
Soldiers’ Children Education Scheme
South East Asia Command
Special Flying Training School
SMR 6/12
Blood Test
SOS
SPOA
SPPU
SPTB
Struck Off Strength or Special Overseas Service
Service Pension—Old Age
Service Pension—Permanently Unemployable
Service Pension—Pulmonary Tuberculosis
SR
Service-related
SSQ
STS
Station Sick Quarters (RAAF)
Soft tissue sarcoma
SVN
SWP
SWPA
South Vietnam
Seamen’s War Pension
South West Pacific Area
SWP &AAct
Seamen’s War Pension and Allowance Act
T
T&A
TB
TCDD
TMB
TOS
TOW
TPE
Tonsils and Adenoids
Tuberculosis
Tetra-chloro-dibenzo-paradoxin (dioxin) Agent Orange
Travelling Medical Board
Taken on Strength
Theatre of War
Termination of Period of Enlistment
U
URTI
UTI
Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
Urinary Tract Infection
Chapter 4 - Page 10
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
V
VAD
VC
VDC
VDH
VDU
Volunteer Aid Detachment
Victoria Cross
Volunteer Defence Corps
Valvular Disease of the Heart
Visual Display Unit
VMO
VR
Visiting Medical Officer
Vocal Resonance
W
WAAAF
WAG
WAGS
WO
WOAS
WPAAT
WPEAT
WRAAC
WRAAF
Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force
Wireless Air Gunner
Wireless Air Gunnery School
Warrant Officer
While on Active Service
War Pensions Assessment Appeal Tribunal—(Defunct)
War Pensions Entitlement Appeal Tribunal—(Defunct)
Women’s Royal Australian Army Corps
Women’s Royal Australian Air Force
WRANS
WS
Women’s Royal Australian Naval Service
War Service
X
‘X’ List
(Transfer to or from) Non effective service (eg hospital, detention, leave,
etc)
Chapter 4 - Page 11
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part B Department of Veterans’ Affairs Abbreviations
A
AAT
ACAT
AFI
Administrative Appeals Tribunal
Aged Care Assessment Team
Application for Increase
BP
British Pension
CCPS
CSHC
Compensation Claim Processing System
Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
DC
DHA
DMO
DP
DSH
DFCSIA
DVA
Deputy Commissioner
Department of Health and Ageing
Department Medical Officer
Disability Pension
Defence Service Homes
Department of Family, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
EDA
ESO
Extreme Disablement Adjustment
Ex-service Organisation
FOI
Freedom of Information
B
C
D
E
F
G
GARP
Guide to the Assessment of Rates of Veterans’ Pension
H
HACC
Home and Community Care
ISS
Income Support Supplement
LDO
Local Dental Officer
LMO
Local Medical Officer
LOE
Loss of Earnings
LPR
Legal Personal Representative
I
L
Chapter 4 - Page 12
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
M
MCS
MRCA
Military Compensation Scheme
Military Rehabilitation & Compensation Act
NHRC
Nursing Home Resident Contribution
OAWG
Office of Australian War Graves
PBS
PCC
PTEC
PTSD
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
Pensioner Concession Card
Personal Treatment Entitlement Card
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
RA
RAP
RGH
RMA
Rental Assistance
Rehabilitation Appliances Program
Repatriation General Hospital
Repatriation Medical Authority
RPBS
RPPS
RTA
Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
Repatriation Private Patient Scheme
Recreation Transport Allowance
SDA
SOP
SP
SRCA
Specific Disability Allowance
Statement of Principles
Service Pension
Safety Rehabilitation & Compensation Act
N
O
P
R
S
T
TA
TFN
TIA
TTI
TPI
Telephone Allowance
Tax File Number
Temporary Incapacity Allowance
Temporarily Totally Incapacitated
Totally & Permanently Incapacitated
Chapter 4 - Page 13
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
V
VAFIS
VAN
VAS
VCES
VEA
VITA
VRB
VVCS
VVRS
Veterans’ Affairs Financial Information Service
Veterans’ Access Network
Vehicle Assistance Scheme
Veterans’ Children Education Scheme
Veterans’ Entitlements Act
Veterans’ Indemnity and Training Association Inc
Veterans’ Review Board
Veterans’ and Veterans’ Families Counselling Service
Veterans’ Vocational Rehabilitation Scheme
Chapter 4 - Page 14
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part C
Navy, Army and RAAF Medical
Classifications
C.1 Army Medical Classifications—World War I
The following is a list of the medical classifications of members of the AIF, which
appear in the medical history and other service documents, particularly those of AIF
Depots in the United Kingdom:
A1
Fit for Active Service
A2
Fit for Active Service when fully trained
A3
Fit for overseas training camp, to which transferred for hardening,
prior to rejoining unit overseas
A4
Fit for Active Service when of age (Military)
B1A1
Fit for light duty only—4 weeks
B1A2
Fit for overseas training camp in three to four weeks
B1A3
Fit for overseas training camp in two to three weeks
B1A4
Fit for overseas training camp when passed dentally fit
B1B
?B2B or ?B1A1 ‘Observation’
B2B
Unfit for overseas training camp six months, and temporarily unfit
for Home Service
C1
Fit for Home Service only
C2
Unfit for Overseas Temporarily unfit for Home Service
C3
Permanently Unfit for service
Note: Practically all those coming under the classification of B2B, C2 and C3 were
sent back to Australia.
C.2 Army Medical Classifications—World War II
Up to 7th August 1942, the medical classification of recruits was as follows:
Class 1
Fit for active service with field formations
Class 11A
Fit for specified duties in any unit in which the particular disability
was no bar
Class 11B
Fit for any duty other than with field formations
Class 111
Labour Units, CMF
Temporarily Unfit; Unfit
Chapter 4 - Page 15
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
By amendment (A287 of 7842) to the publication ‘Instructions for the Medical Examination of
Recruits’ (3091941), issued by the Military Board, the following medical classifications of recruits
were adopted:
A1 Medically fit for all active service duties
A2 Medically fit for active service for which the particular disability is not a bar
B1
Medically fit for active service, except with field formation
B2
Medically fit for sedentary duties only
B3
Fit for service in labour units only
C
Temporarily unfit
D
Permanently unfit for military service
The above was cancelled by A546, of 13111942, and replaced by:
A1
Medically fit for all duties
A2
Medically fit for all duties for which the particular disability is not a
bar
B
Medically fit to carry out certain duties which require only
restricted medical fitness. These duties will be shown in war
establishments
C
Temporarily medically unfit
D
Medically unfit for military service
C.3 Royal Australian Naval Medical Classifications—World War II
(Navy Order 412/1942 {which cancelled No 103/1941})
Naval personnel who have been the subject of medical survey, or who have
undergone or are undergoing a period of medical treatment were, for drafting
purposes to be placed in one of the following categories:
(A)
Medically fit for draft anywhere
(B)
Medically fit for draft to a ship of establishment where a medical
officer is borne
(C)
Under medical treatment, unfit for draft or duty anywhere
(Anticipated period to be stated)
(D)
Medically unfit for sea service temporarily, but fit for duty in a
shore establishment (Anticipated period to be stated)
(E)
Medically unfit for sea service permanently but fit for duty in a
shore establishment as a result of survey
Chapter 4 - Page 16
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
(X)
Permanently unfit for sea service or for service in a shore
establishment or depot ship north of Brisbane or Fremantle on the
recommendation of a Board of Medical Survey
(Y)
Temporarily unfit for sea service or for service in a shore
establishment or depot ship north of Brisbane or Fremantle
(Anticipated period to be stated)
(M)
Temporarily medically unfit for appointment or draft to a
potentially malarious area
In all signals and correspondence referring to these cases, the letters indicated above
follow the name of the individual concerned.
Categories (D) and (E): Personnel in these categories were temporarily or
permanently unfit for service in sea-going ships. They were fit for duty in all shore
establishments, whether in the tropics or not, and were also fit for duty in harbour
craft unless specifically stated to be unfit for this duty.
Categories (X) and (Y): Personnel in these categories were permanently or temporarily
unfit for service in sea-going ships or shore establishments and depot ships north of
Brisbane and Fremantle. They were fit for duty in shore establishments south of and
including Brisbane and Fremantle, or in harbour craft in the same area unless
specifically stated to be unfit for such duty.
The term ‘Harbourcraft’ did not cover local defence vessels that kept at sea for any
appreciable time.
Invaliding categories:
PUNS
Physically unfit for naval service
BNPS
Below naval physical standard
C.4 Royal Australian Air Force Medical Classification, World
War II
The letter ‘A’ represents fitness for air duties, and the letter ‘B’ fitness for ground
duties. Numerals qualifying fitness for air duties were added as requisites after the
letter ‘A’ as follows:
1
Full duties as pilot
2
Limited flying
3
Combatant passenger (piloting excepted), such as wireless, air
gunner or observer
4
Non-combat passenger
Letters were subsequently added after both ‘A’ and ‘B’ for the purpose of indicating
limitations of fitness as follows:
h
Home service only
t
Temporarily unfit
b
Permanently unfit
Chapter 4 - Page 17
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Hence:
A1B
Fit full flying duties as pilot and fit ground duties
A2B
Fit limited flying duties and fit full duties on ground
Limitations vary for various reasons and the reason is always indicated. Thus a pilot
might be classified:
A2B
Non-operational flying
A2B
Limited flights, one hour daily
A2B
Limited to flights of 10,000 feet and so on
A3B
Fit air gunner and air observer and fit ground duties
A man over 72 inches tall or over 175 pounds cannot be assessed fit air gunner.
Therefore, you will sometimes come across ‘A3B’ (AO only), that is, air observer
only:
A1b-A3B
Fit both pilot and air gunner and observer
A4B
Fit ground duties and fit to fly as non-combatant passenger. An
assessment used mostly for A and SD officers
A1hBh
Fit fly as pilot in Australia only and fit ground duties in Australia
only
A3HBh
Fit air gunner or observer in Australia only and fit ground duties in
Australia only
AtBt
Temporarily unfit for all duties
AtB’\
Unfit flying duties temporarily but fit ground duties
ApB
Unfit flying permanently but fit ground duties
ApBp
Permanently unfit all duties
Chapter 4 - Page 18
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
Part D
Australian Defence Force Medical
Employment Classifications
In accordance with the principles of a joint organisation and the Defence Reform
Program, a new joint system of medical employment classifications (MEC) was
introduced in 1990. The system consisted of (4) MEC) Levels. With effect from 1 July
2011, a five MEC system was introduced for use within the Australian Defence Force.
D.1 Medical Employment Classification
The five (5) MEC Levels are:





MEC 1:
MEC 2:
MEC 3
MEC 4:
MEC 5:
Fully Employable and Deployable;
Employable and Deployable with Restrictions;
Rehabilitation;
Employment Transition;
Separation.
Sub Classification
Within each MEC there are a number of sub-classifications. These are reflected via an
alphanumeric code that, combined with Employment Restrictions, indicates the member’s
fitness for deployment and employment in their employment group.
Subclassifications and their overviews are as follows:
MEC 1:
Fully Employable and Deployable
MEC
J11
J12
MEC 2:
Summary
Fully employable and deployable
Fully employable and deployable with an identified requirement
for limited materiel re-supply
Employable and Deployable with Restrictions
MEC
J21
J22
J23
M24
M25
M26
L27
L28
J29
Summary
Defined limitations
Defined limitations, and/or required materiel support
Defined limitations, and/or required materiel support, and/or
access to health support to Medical Officer support
Maritime Environment:
Defined limitations, and/or required materiel support, and/or
access to health support – minimum of advanced Medical
Assistant (AMA) or Nursing Officer (NO) support.
Maritime Environment:
Defined limitations, and/or required materiel support, and/or
access to health support – minimum of Clinical Manager Support
Maritime Environment:
Defined limitations, and/or required materiel support, and/or
access to health support – minimum Nurse Practitioner, Physician
Assistant or Medical Officer support
Land Environment
Restricted deployment
Land Environment
Restricted deployment
Defined limitations, and/or required materiel support and defined
access to Role 2E Health Services
Chapter 4 - Page 19
WELFARE REPATRIATION OFFICER HANDBOOK CORRECT AS AT 14 SEPTEMBER 2015
MEC 3:
Rehabilitation
MEC
J31
J32
J33
J34
MEC 4:
Employment Transition
MEC
J40
J41
J42
J43
J44
MEC 5:
Summary
Rehabilitation for a period up to 12 months
Extended Rehabilitation for a period up to 24 months
Pregnancy
Temporarily non-effective for a period between 28 days and four
(4) months
Summary
Holding Temporary – awaiting MECRB consideration
Alternate employment
Employment at service
Extended Transition – duration up to 3 (3) years to support
transition from the ADF
Extended Non Effective
Not fit for work for a defined period four (4) and 12 months
Separation
MEC
J51
J52
Summary
Not employable on medical grounds
Not employable on medical grounds
Chapter 4 - Page 20