DVA funding for addiction recovery

No. If you hold a valid Gold or White DVA Health Card, your addiction treatment is fully funded. That means you won’t need to pay anything out of pocket for approved services, and there are no hidden fees. We want you to focus on getting better — not worrying about the cost.

DVA funding covers detox, inpatient rehabilitation, and relapse prevention programs. Some additional services — such as extended aftercare or mental health treatments — may require further assessment. Our team can review your needs and liaise with the DVA to determine what’s covered.

In most cases, DVA funding covers the full cost of your treatment. But if you need extra support, we can help you explore additional resources, including community programs or referrals to trusted organisations that work with veterans.

Recovery doesn’t stop when you leave our care. Many veterans continue their journey with the help of organisations like Open Arms, which offers ongoing mental health support and counselling tailored for former service members. We can help connect you to these services to ensure you feel supported well beyond your time at The Hader Clinic.

To apply, you’ll need a DVA Health Card (Gold or White) and a referral from a GP or DVA-approved provider. Once your referral is secured, The Hader Clinic will coordinate directly with the DVA to arrange funding. If you have questions at any stage, our team is here to help.

Yes, we do. Our team works closely with DVA case managers and healthcare providers to make sure your treatment is approved and aligned with your individual needs. We manage much of the admin on your behalf, so you can concentrate on your recovery journey.

The timeline for approval depends on your case and how quickly all required documentation is submitted. In most cases, funding can be arranged within a few weeks. Our team works closely with the DVA to speed up the process wherever possible.

Yes. Many veterans experience PTSD, anxiety, or depression alongside addiction. DVA funding may include integrated care plans that combine addiction treatment with mental health support, including counselling and trauma-informed therapies.

If you don’t have a Gold or White Health Card, you may still have options for funding addiction treatment. You can apply for a DVA Health Card based on your service history and medical needs. Other funding pathways, such as superannuation access or payment plans, may also be available. Contact our team, and we’ll help you explore your options.

While the DVA covers the full cost of approved addiction treatment, there are employer incentives available to help veterans transition back into the workforce after rehab. Under the DVA’s Employer Incentive Scheme (EIS), eligible employers may receive wage subsidies when they hire veterans participating in a DVA rehabilitation program. These payments can help veterans find sustainable work after treatment — but they don’t apply to funding the rehab program itself.