Occupational Therapy Support for Veterans | Onward Health
Occupational therapy is available to eligible veterans through DVA. Learn what support is available and how the referral process works.
Owen Clark
11/2/20261 min read
DVA Services: Occupational Therapy Support for Veterans
Veterans and eligible members of the Australian Defence Force community can access occupational therapy support through the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA). For many, navigating what's available and how to access it is the first hurdle. Here's an overview of how DVA-funded OT support generally works.
Who Is Eligible?
DVA support is available to eligible veterans, current serving members in certain circumstances and some dependents, depending on individual entitlements and the type of DVA card held (Gold or White). Eligibility and the specific services covered can vary, so it's worth confirming individual entitlements directly with DVA.
What Occupational Therapy Support Can Cover
DVA-funded OT support can address a wide range of needs, including:
Functional assessment — understanding the impact of physical or psychological conditions on daily function
Assistive technology and equipment — prescription of aids and equipment to support independence
Home modifications — assessment and recommendation of changes to support safety and accessibility
Complex seating and positioning — for veterans with significant mobility impairment
Attendant care assessment — determining appropriate levels of personal care support
The Referral and Assessment Process
Accessing OT support through DVA typically begins with a referral, often from a GP or treating specialist, followed by an assessment to establish current function, needs and goals. From there, a treatment or support plan is developed, with reports and recommendations provided back to DVA to support funding decisions.
Supporting Complex and Long-Term Needs
Many veterans accessing DVA-funded OT support are managing complex, long-term conditions including physical injuries, chronic pain or the functional impact of psychological conditions such as PTSD. Effective support recognises this complexity, taking a holistic view of how physical, psychological and environmental factors interact, rather than addressing needs in isolation.
Why Experience with DVA Processes Matters
Like other funding schemes, DVA has its own specific processes, documentation requirements and terminology. Working with an OT familiar with these processes can help ensure requests are well-supported and processed efficiently, reducing delays in accessing needed equipment or support.
Getting Started
If you're a veteran, family member, or referring GP considering an OT referral through DVA, it helps to have a clear picture of current DVA entitlements and any existing treatment plans before the assessment begins. Onward Health provides DVA-funded occupational therapy services for eligible clients across the Sunshine Coast and surrounding region. Get in touch to discuss a referral.
