VETERANS’ HEALTH WEEK

23 Oct 2017

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Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Dan Tehan today encouraged current and former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and their family members to take part in events across Australia as part of the annual Veterans’ Health Week (VHW).

Mr Tehan said this year’s theme was ‘Physical Activity’ to promote the fitness, social and mental health benefits of staying active.

More than 200 events will be held across Australia from 21-29 October, with almost 14,000 veterans and their families expected to participate in various activities, including family fun days, golf, kayaking, surfing, cycling, yoga and bush walking.
“I encourage all current and former ADF members and their families to take part in a local event, get active and meet new people who share a common experience,” Mr Tehan said.
“The Government is committed to supporting the physical and mental health of our veterans. The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) has a range of programs in place to promote the health and wellbeing of the veteran community.”

Some of the health resources and support services include:
 The Heart Health Program which aims to help increase physical health and wellbeing through practical exercise, nutrition and lifestyle management support.

 Eligibility for a referral from a GP to see an Exercise Physiologist to help develop an exercise plan.

 The Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP) that provides access to items to help eligible veterans get back to playing sport and being active.

For more information on any of this support visit www.dva.gov.au or phone 133 254.

For information about Veterans’ Health Week 2017, including event details, visit http://www.dva.gov.au/health-and-wellbeing/health-events/veterans-health-week.
21 October 2017

 

Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS) can be reached 24 hours a day across
Australia for support and free and confidential counselling. Phone 1800 011 046 (international:
+61 8 8241 4546). VVCS is a service founded by Vietnam veterans.