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.
Gender differences in mental health among serving and ex-serving military personnel: A Review of the literature
2013The aim of this literature review, conducted by Australian Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health (ACPMH), was to provide information on gender differences across key mental health topics relevant to military personnel and veterans. These topics included the type and prevalence of mental health and related problems; treatment seeking attitudes and behaviours; treatment preferences; and access to, and barriers to, treatment.
Gender Differences in Outcomes - Trauma-focused Interventions for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
2013The aim of this study was to undertake a systematic review and meta – analysis to examine whether gender modifies the intervention effect of trauma-focused psychological interventions for PTSD.
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.
Comparison of DVA clients’, ADF members’ and the general population’s responses to the 2007 National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing
2013The aim of this research was to compare the prevalence of affective, anxiety and substance use disorders, and the use of mental health services, between respondents identifying with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) and the general population. The reserach used 2007 National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing (NSMHW 2007) data (a nationally representative household survey of 8,841 respondents aged between 16 and 85).
Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) Health Studies (2013)
2012The key findings of the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) Census and Prospective Health Studies were launched by the Chief of the Defence Force on 8 August 2013.
Timor-Leste Family Study (2012)
2012This study investigated the effects on the health and wellbeing of the families of Australian Defence Force members who were deployed to Timor-Leste, and a control group of those who were eligible to deploy to Timor-Leste but did not.
Analysis of the Lifecycle Package
2012The mental health Lifecycle Initiatives were implemented as a 2008-09 budget measure. The goals included enhancing psychological resilience among service personnel, improving mental health surveillance, supporting successful transition from defence to civilian life, and providing effective rehabilitation and support.
The health and wellbeing of female Vietnam and contemporary veterans 2012
2012The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) commissioned Dr Samantha Crompvoets to lead a study in 2009 into the health and wellbeing of female Vietnam and contemporary veterans.