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Developments in Defence Force Services

DVA continued to foster strong business relationships with the Department of Defence through the Defence and DVA Links Project, which seeks to develop potential efficiencies in the operations of the two departments. The project sets out a long-term course for the Department within the broader Defence portfolio, enabling it to reshape its traditional role to provide a broader range of services.

During 2001–02 the Department undertook the administration of the F-111 Deseal/Reseal Health Care Scheme, a Defence funded partnership which provides treatment and/or counselling to Defence personnel, ex serving members and civilian contractors who worked on F-111 fuel tank maintenance programs at RAAF Base Amberley. Partners and children of eligible personnel, and others who worked on the base are eligible to access counselling.

Developing closer links in the provision of health care has been a major objective of the project. Defence and DVA have agreed on a strategic alliance for the joint contracting of certain non-operational health services and have entered into joint contracts with private hospitals in Tasmania and Townsville. The Departments continue to explore possible joint arrangements in other areas not affected by the Defence Reform plans to outsource all non-deployed health services.

A Centre for Military and Veterans’ Health is under consideration. Some of Australia’s leading university medical schools and teaching hospitals have responded to a request for proposal to establish the centre, which will support improved health and well-being among ADF members and veterans. The centre will provide a cost-effective, national base of expertise in military health to maintain and enhance the health, fitness and deployability of ADF members. It also will provide a valuable opportunity for joint research into the impacts of military service on the health of serving members and veterans. A decision on a successful tenderer is expected later in 2002.

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