Research and Studies
Health research and social research publications
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs carries out a wide range of research to support the health and wellbeing needs of veterans and families of veterans. This page brings together a range of DVA commissioned research, evaluations and literature reviews.
Readers should note that some older publications may reflect the evidence base and policy context at the time they were produced and may not fully align with current research, practice, or priorities.
A list of current projects can be seen at Current Research Projects.
Intimate Partner Violence among current and ex-serving Australian Defence Force personnel and families
2023The findings highlight opportunities for continued action to address intimate partner violence in the veteran community, a national priority for the Australian Government and the DVA.
Emerging Treatments for Common Mental Health Conditions Affecting Veterans: Psychedelic Interventions
2023DVA commissioned Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation (GMRF) to undertake a rolling Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) of emerging and adjunct treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and
Emerging Treatments for Common Mental Health Conditions Affecting Veterans: Stellate Ganglion Block Interventions
2023DVA commissioned Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation (GMRF) to undertake a rolling Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) of emerging and adjunct treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and
Emerging Treatments for Common Mental Health Conditions Affecting Veterans: D-Cycloserine Interventions
2023DVA commissioned Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation (GMRF) to undertake a rolling Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) of emerging and adjunct treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and
Emerging Treatments for Common Mental Health Conditions: Medicinal Cannabis Interventions
2023DVA commissioned Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation (GMRF) to undertake a rolling Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) of emerging and adjunct treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and common mental health conditions affecting veterans.
PTSD Assistance Dogs research trial
2022DVA funded a four-year research trial through La Trobe University, in partnership with the Centre for Service and Therapy Dogs Australia (CSTDA), to provide detailed guidance and evidence to support best practice in the use of psychiatric assistance dogs for veterans with PTSD.
The current status of moral injury: A narrative review and Rapid Evidence Assessment (2022)
2022The aim of this project was to review the literature in relation to how moral injury is conceptualised, models of moral injury, linkages between moral injury and common mental health issues, and the effectiveness of moral injury interventions in veteran and military populations.
Environmental Scan – Rehabilitation Way Forward (2022)
2022This report documents the completion of the above research project.
Rapid Evidence Assessment to support active ageing for veterans
2022Findings from the REA identify strategies to support and sustain healthy behaviours as part of active ageing in Australian veterans. The research suggests that interventions that promote an active
Horizon Scan: Mental Health and Wellbeing Service Delivery (2022)
2022The Department of Veterans' Affairs commissioned the University of Newcastle via its College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing – Centre for Brain and Mental Health Research, to conduct a Horizon Scan