February 17, 2014
The National Australian Defence Force (ADF) Family Health Program is underway and benefiting families in Gippsland.
Federal Member for Gippsland and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence Darren Chester said the program would provide additional support to Defence families accessing health services.
“The Coalition made a key election commitment to establish the National ADF Family Health Program to assist Defence families with the costs of health care,” Mr Chester said.
“The program acknowledges the sacrifice that service men and women make to protect our nation as well as the efforts by their loved ones to support them as they undertake their duties.
“Defence families face unique challenges, such as regular postings every two to three years, which can disrupt access to regular health care.
“This program will see eligible Defence dependants reimbursed for their out of pocket expenses when visiting their local general practitioner and, in addition, they may claim up to $400 per year for allied health services such as physiotherapy, dentistry and mental health support.”
Mr Chester said every dependant of full time ADF members, and Reservists on Continuous Full Time Service, will be eligible regardless of where they live in Australia.
Further information on the National Australian Defence Force (ADF) Family Health Program can be found at www.defence.gov.au/health/dependant_healthcare/i-healthcare