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Accessing DVA Mental Health Support

A practical guide to navigating the DVA system and accessing the mental health support you're entitled to

Navigating the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) system can feel overwhelming, particularly when you're already dealing with mental health challenges. The system is there to support you, but knowing where to start and what you're entitled to can be confusing.

If you've served in the Australian Defence Force, you're entitled to mental health support through DVA, regardless of whether your condition is service-related. This article breaks down the process, explains your entitlements, and provides practical steps to access the support you need.

Understanding Your DVA Entitlements

DVA provides mental health support through several pathways, depending on your service history and circumstances.

White Card Holders

A DVA White Card (Repatriation Health Card – For Specific Conditions) covers treatment for accepted service-related conditions only. If you have a mental health condition accepted under your White Card, DVA will fund your treatment for that specific condition.

Gold Card Holders

A DVA Gold Card (Repatriation Health Card – For All Conditions) covers treatment for all health conditions, whether service-related or not. This includes mental health support, GP visits, specialist appointments, and allied health services.

Non-Liability Health Care

Even if you don't have a White or Gold Card, you may still be eligible for mental health treatment through DVA's Non-Liability Health Care (NLHC) program. NLHC provides mental health support for any current or former ADF member, regardless of length of service or whether the condition is service-related.

This is an important pathway many veterans aren't aware of. You don't need to prove your mental health condition is linked to your service to access this support.

What Mental Health Support Is Available?

DVA-funded mental health support includes:

• Counselling and therapy – Sessions with psychologists, social workers, or mental health occupational therapists
• Psychiatry – Assessment, diagnosis, and medication management if needed
• Open Arms counselling – Free, confidential counselling available 24/7 for veterans and families
• Group programs – Structured wellbeing and recovery programs
• Crisis support – Immediate mental health support when needed

How to Access DVA Mental Health Support

Step 1: Contact Open Arms

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling is often the best first point of contact. They provide free, confidential counselling and can help you navigate the DVA system.

Call Open Arms: 1800 011 046 (24/7)

Open Arms can provide immediate counselling support and help you understand your DVA entitlements. They can also arrange referrals to external providers if ongoing support is needed.

Step 2: Register with DVA (If You Haven't Already)

To access DVA-funded services, you'll need to be registered with DVA. You can register online through the MyService portal or by calling DVA directly.

Call DVA: 1800 838 372 (Monday to Friday, 8am–5pm local time)

Step 3: Request Mental Health Support

Once registered, you can request mental health treatment through:

• Your GP – Your GP can refer you to a DVA-approved mental health provider
• DVA directly – You can request a referral by calling DVA or submitting a request through MyService
• Open Arms – They can arrange external referrals and help coordinate your care

Step 4: Choose a Provider

You can choose to see a DVA-approved provider, which means DVA will pay for your sessions directly. Alternatively, you can see a provider of your choice and claim reimbursement from DVA, though this may involve upfront costs.

Make sure the provider you choose is experienced in working with veterans and is familiar with DVA processes. At Mindful Mates Social Services, we're a DVA-approved provider and understand the system well.

What If My Claim Is Denied?

If your application for DVA support is denied or you disagree with a decision, you have the right to request a review. DVA decisions can be complex, and it's not uncommon for initial applications to be rejected, particularly if documentation is incomplete.

You can request an internal review through DVA or seek support from an advocate, such as:

• Veterans' Legal Service – Free legal advice for veterans
• Open Arms – Can provide advocacy support and help navigate the review process
• Ex-service organisations (ESOs) – RSL, Legacy, and other groups often provide claims support

You Don't Have to Navigate This Alone

The DVA system can feel bureaucratic and slow, especially when you're dealing with mental health challenges. It's okay to ask for help. Open Arms, ex-service organisations, and DVA-approved mental health providers can all assist you through the process.

At Mindful Mates Social Services, we work with DVA clients regularly and understand both the system and the unique challenges veterans face. If you're struggling to access support or just want to talk through your options, we're here to help.