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.
Is stepped care an effective model for the delivery of treatment for depression and anxiety?
2014The aim of this review was to examine the efficacy of stepped care for the treatment of adults with depression or anxiety disorders.
Peacekeepers' health study (2014)
2014This study investigated the health of Australian veterans of deployments on United Nations sanctioned peacekeeping missions to Rwanda, Somalia, Cambodia, Namibia, Western Sahara and East Timor over the period 1989-2002.
Health Risks and Occupation as a Firefighter
2014On 9 September 2013, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) commissioned a study into firefighter exposures in response to health concerns voiced by ex-serving Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) firefighters and a concurrent legislated review of the Fair Protection for Firefighters Act 2011 by the Department of Employment.
Effectiveness of off-the shelf footwear in reducing foot pain in DVA recipients
2014In Australia, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) covers the costs of medical grade footwear for veterans who have severe foot deformity. However, there is a high demand for footwear by veterans with foot pain who do not meet this eligibility criterion.
Rwanda Deployment Health Study (2014)
2014This study aimed to examine the health and compensation outcomes of Rwanda veterans and investigate whether there were differences in outcomes between the different groups deployed.
Vietnam Veterans Family Study (2014)
2014The Vietnam Veterans Family Study (VVFS) is the most significant research program ever undertaken by the Australian Government into the health of the families of Australia’s Vietnam veterans
Exploring future service needs of Australian Defence Force Reservists
2013DVA commissioned this study in 2011 to gain a better understanding of the experiences of reservists.
What strategies are effective for reducing the stigma associated with mental health disorder?
2013This aim of this review was to assess the current standing of public and self-anti-stigma interventions and investigate what has been shown to be an effective intervention to reduce stigma at the public and individual level.
What emerging interventions are effective for the treatment of adults with PTSD?
2013The aim of this review was to examine the evidence for the effectiveness of a number of therapies considered to be emerging interventions for the treatment of adults with posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD).
What is the prevalence rate for substance use disorder in contemporary ex-serving veterans?
2013The aim of this review was to determine the prevalence rate of substance use disorder in contemporary ex-serving veterans.