BREAKING NEWS
DVA News
New VetAffairs
DVA recently released the latest edition of their newsletter, VetAffairs.
The opening pages of this content-rich publication provide some helpful advice regarding the new VETS Act and changes to payments under DVA rules. There is also an abundance of guidance relating to: Health and Wellbeing, Open Arms, Families, Transition and much, much more.
You can enjoy it in various forms, as:
• Magazine flipbook
• a PDF
• an audio file (MP3), or
• Web text (HTML)
Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency
The launch of the Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency responds to recommendations from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
The Agency supports a shift towards a more person-centred system that strengthens prevention and early intervention and broader wellbeing.
Veterans and the families of veterans will be better supported through transition from ADF service and at times of need.
The new Agency was launched on 1 July 2026 and is now in its initial stage of operations.
In line with the Royal Commission’s recommendations, the Agency is initially focused on supporting veterans and families most at risk during transition from the ADF.
Broader veteran and family support is available through website resources, a service directory and a phone line (a free-call 1800 number) to help find and connect people with the right support.
The Agency is acting as a connector and coordinator, linking veterans and families with the right support – including Hubs.
People remain in control of their information and how they engage with services.
The focus is on seamless transitions between services so people don’t have to navigate the system on their own.
The Minister announced the appointment of Brendan Cox as the inaugural Chief Executive of the Agency, who commenced in the role on 27 July 2026.
Find out all about the new Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency at www.veteranwellbeing.gov.au.
Allied Health Measure
The Budget provided $169.7 million over 5 years to increase allied health provider fees for Veteran Card holders from 1 July 2027 (Royal Commission Recommendation 71).
This is the largest investment in veteran allied health provider fees in more than 2 decades, improving choice and availability of services for veterans and families of veterans.
A $5,000 annual threshold for veterans’ allied health services is being introduced from July next year. Veteran Card holders will continue to access the treatment they need while ensuring they are not taken advantage of by providers looking to increase profits through overservicing.
Importantly, this measure includes flexibility for DVA to fund allied health services above the $5,000 threshold where there is a valid clinical need, ensuring veterans receive the care they require.
DVA will commence a consultation process from next month to inform the design and operation of the new arrangements.
Information about the consultation will be widely shared with stakeholders and veterans, as is DVA’s usual practice. You can register your interest to participate in allied health consultations on the DVA website.
Hot Issues
The new DVA Community Questions Answered page brings together current issues where there has been confusion or misinformation in the community.
This page is your up-to-date, straightforward and reliable source of truth to answer questions about how DVA support works.
Medicinal cannabis
The 6-month grandfathering arrangements for Veteran Card holders with medicinal cannabis prescriptions were put in place to allow veterans time to work with their doctor to meet new requirements, and will end on 31 August 2026.
Click here for more information.
Vietnam Kitbags
The kitbag includes a suggested order of service with flag protocols, music, the Ode of Remembrance and other poems, and a brief history of Australians who served during the Vietnam War.
Click here for your Vietnam War Kitbag.
