DVA Physiotherapy
Service-related physical injuries can significantly impact quality of life if left untreated. Our DVA Physiotherapy services aim to reduce pain and stiffness, increase mobility and reduce risk of re-injury.
If you have acute or chronic injuries, our Physiotherapists will provide tailored hands-on treatment and appropriate rehab programs that will meet your needs and support you through recovery.
Whether your conditions are mild annoying or debilitating to every part of your life we are here to help your journey to recovery and self-management. It doesn’t matter if your goal is just to get through your day pain free or to climb a mountain, we will work with you to reach your goals no matter your current fitness level.
Our physios are Defence familiar. We understand the unique loading that the job puts on your body. From your basic training, BFA, PESA, parachuting and even special forces selection we have seen it all.
We will work with you to reach your goals no matter your current fitness level.
Who is eligible for DVA Physiotherapy?
You may be able to receive physiotherapy services under the DVA Scheme if you have an assessed clinical need and a:
- a Veteran Gold Card; or
- a Veteran White Card(your treatment is for an accepted service-related condition)
Gold Card
- Provides you with clinically required treatment for all medical conditions.
- You can also access a range of services and support.
- The Gold Card is also known as a Veteran Gold Card or a Repatriation Health Card for all conditions.
- For more information please visit: Department of Veteran’s Affairs – Gold Card
White Card
- Provides you with medical treatment for accepted service-related injuries or conditions and all mental health conditions.
- If you are eligible the White Card can also provide you with medical treatment for:
- cancer (malignant neoplasm) covered under non-liability health care,
- pulmonary tuberculosis covered under non-liability health care.
- For more information please visit: Department of Veteran’s Affairs – White Card
Do I need a referral?
Yes, all DVA card holders require a valid referral which can be issued by:
- General Practitioner
- Local Medical Officer (LMO)
- Medical specialist
- Treating doctor in hospital
- Hospital discharge planner
- Physiotherapist with a current referral
A referral remains valid for up to 12 sessions or a year (whichever ends first).
DVA patients can have as many treatment cycles as their GP considers to be clinically necessary. The treatment cycle does not apply to veterans with a Total and Permanently Incapacitated (TPI) Gold Card.
For more information please visit: DVA Treatment Cycle
Please ensure that you have a valid referral before booking your appointment.
What DVA Physiotherapy treatment do I receive?
DVA Physiotherapy services might include:
- Pain Management education
- Balance Exercises
- Mobility Aids Prescription
- Prescription of Supporting Braces
- Rehabilitation before and after Orthopaedic Surgeries
- Falls Risk Assessment and Falls Prevention Program
- Dry Needling
- Kinesio Taping
- Soft tissue release to improve range of motion or relieve pain
- Exercise prescription to improve strength, movement and control
- Group Physio lead Pilates classes
Do I need to pay for DVA Physiotherapy services?
No. We will bill DVA directly on your behalf and there is no out of pocket costs for you.