DVA Heart Health Program: Veterans’ Free Path to Better Health

What Is the Veterans Heart Health Program?

The Veterans Heart Health Program is free and runs for 12 months. DVA funds it and Corporate Health Management runs it.

The program has supported eligible veterans for more than 20 years. It uses exercise, nutrition education and lifestyle support to help you build healthier habits.

It caters for many ages, fitness levels and levels of mobility. You can start at a pace that fits your health and goals. Health staff help you set goals and track your progress.

Why Heart Health Matters for Veterans

Heart health can change as you age and your routine shifts after service. AIHW data from 1997 to 2023 shows that coronary heart disease was the leading cause of death for permanent, reserve and ex-serving males aged 50 to 70. Your own risk still depends on your age, medical history and other individual factors.

In 2024, cardiovascular disease was the underlying cause of 42,300 deaths in Australia, or 23% of all deaths. It also accounted for almost 12% of Australia’s total disease burden. These population figures show why individual risk assessment and ongoing care with a GP matter.

The good news is that many heart health risks can be reduced. Regular activity, healthier food and support from your GP can help. I explain below how the Veterans Heart Health Program supports these changes.

Who Can Access the Veterans Heart Health Program?

Eligibility is fairly simple, but there are a few points to check before you register.

Eligibility Criteria

You may qualify if you served on operations or as a peacekeeper. You may also qualify under the ADF Firefighter Scheme.

You generally must not have previously participated in the program. However, the current eligibility checker states that some people who started and participated in or before 2021 may be eligible to re-engage.

Check your status with Corporate Health Management before assuming you can enrol again.

Getting GP Clearance First

Before you start, your GP must complete the program’s medical clearance form. Ask your GP whether you can also have a Veteran Health Check. My Veteran Health Check guide explains the types of checks and who may use them. 

How the Veterans Heart Health Program Works

The program is offered in group and individual formats, and both run for 52 weeks. The individual format is delivered remotely with a health coach, so you do not complete it without support.

Both formats include tailored exercise and 12 health education modules. The main differences are how support is delivered and whether you attend local group sessions.

The Heart Health Group Program

The group program usually includes 10 to 15 people. Sessions take place at a local gym or recreation centre. You attend weekly exercise sessions and monthly health workshops.

The group setting gives you regular contact with other veterans. This may help if you find it easier to stay active with set sessions. It may also suit you if peer support helps you stay motivated.

The Individual Heart Health Program

The individual program is delivered by phone, email, web and mail. Your GP and a health coach support you throughout the program. Your coach contacts you every two weeks.

You also receive monthly health education modules and a personal exercise plan. The personalised exercise resource may include help with the cost of a gym or pool membership, a small item of home exercise equipment or help accessing training gear. What you receive depends on your approved program plan.

Here is how the two options compare:

The group option may suit you if you prefer set weekly sessions and contact with other veterans. The individual option may be more practical if work, location or health makes group attendance difficult.

Both options include food diary reviews by a nutritionist, a participant manual and a certificate when you finish. You can call Corporate Health Management on 1300 246 262 to register or check your eligibility. DVA does not cover travel costs for group sessions.

Getting the Most From Your 12 Months

Because enrolment is generally a one-time opportunity, check that the format and location fit your routine before you commit. The program expects you to take part in at least 80% of scheduled activities over 12 months.

Use the medical clearance discussion to raise any health limits that could affect your exercise plan. Set a few practical goals with your coach or trainer and review them as your fitness changes.

Small steps are easier to keep. Move on most days, use the food diary feedback to adjust your meals and contact your coach when motivation drops. By the end, you should know which habits suit your health and routine.

Other DVA Support for Your Heart Health

The Veterans Heart Health Program may sit alongside other DVA-funded care. I do not provide healthcare or enrol veterans in these programs. I explain the options so you know what to discuss with your GP.

Coordinated Veterans’ Care Program 

Gold Card holders with a chronic health condition may qualify for the Coordinated Veterans’ Care Program. White Card holders may also qualify if they have a chronic DVA-accepted mental health condition.

In either case, you must live in Australia and in the community, have complex care needs and be at risk of hospitalisation. Your usual GP assesses your eligibility and enrols you.

The program gives eligible veterans support from a GP-led care team. It aims to help you manage your health and reduce avoidable hospital care. My guide to DVA care programs explains other services that may apply.

DVA-Funded Exercise Physiology 

Eligible Veteran Card holders may also receive DVA-funded exercise physiology. You need a referral from an authorised health provider. Gold Card coverage can apply to any condition, while White Card coverage is limited to accepted conditions.

Mental Health Support 

Changes in your physical health may also affect your mental wellbeing. Open Arms provides free and confidential counselling to eligible members of the veteran community and their families. My guide to veterans’ mental health services explains other support options.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000. You can also contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. These services are separate from the DVA claims support I provide.

When Your Heart Condition Is Linked to Service

Some heart conditions may be linked to military service. DVA must assess that connection before it accepts liability. 

How Initial Liability Is Assessed 

An initial liability claim asks DVA to decide whether your diagnosed heart condition is connected to service. DVA makes the final decision under the applicable law and evidence.

What I Check Before a Heart Condition Claim

Before I prepare the claim, I check the diagnosis, when symptoms or treatment began and the relevant service history. I then review whether the medical records explain the claimed connection or leave evidence gaps that need clarification.

Permanent Impairment and Claim Timeframes 

If DVA accepts the condition, you may be able to lodge a permanent impairment claim for its lasting effects. Eligibility and any compensation depend on the accepted conditions, medical evidence and DVA’s assessment.

New compensation claims lodged from 1 July 2026 are determined under the improved MRCA. Permanent impairment is assessed using impairment points, and DVA completes a needs assessment after accepting liability to identify relevant compensation, rehabilitation and support needs.

In my experience, the full permanent impairment claims process often takes around two to three years from the initial claim to the final decision. It may take longer if DVA needs further evidence or clarification.

I provide independent, paid support with preparing clear DVA claims and responding to evidence requests. DVA makes the final decision on liability, impairment points and compensation.

Putting Your Heart First

The Veterans Heart Health Program can give eligible veterans structured support to build healthier routines.

Use the program alongside your GP’s advice because it does not replace medical care. If your heart condition may be linked to service, contact Veterans First Consulting when you are ready to discuss a DVA claim.