30 March 2017
The Government has launched a digital advertising campaign to inform current and former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) about accessing free treatment for five mental health conditions.
“Anyone who has served at least one day of full-time service in the ADF is eligible for free treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety and alcohol and substance abuse,” Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Dan Tehan said.
“The program is uncapped, fully-funded and you do not have to prove your condition is related to your service to access treatment.
“This important Government initiative is helping veterans access free mental health and we want to reach as many people as possible with this advertising campaign.”
Mr Tehan said the campaign would run online and across social media targeting current ADF members, veterans and their families.
Anyone wanting more information on how to access this treatment can phone DVA on 133 254 (metropolitan callers) or 1800 555 254 (regional callers) or visit www.dva.gov.au/nlhc.
Immediate assistance can also be provided by the Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS), which provides free and confidential counselling service for veterans and their families 24/7 on 1800 011 046.
Media enquiries:
Minister Tehan’s Office: Byron Vale, 0428 262 894
Department of Veterans’ Affairs Media: 02 6289 6203
Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS) can be reached 24 hours a day across Australia for crisis support and free and confidential counselling. Phone 1800 011 046 (international: +61 8 8241 45 46). VVCS is a service founded by Vietnam veterans.