Veteran Card - Pharmaceuticals Only
The Veteran Card – Pharmaceuticals Only (colloquially known as the Veteran Orange Card) is for Commonwealth and allied veterans of the Second World War. It gives access to concessions for prescriptions, wound care products and nutritional supplements.
Back to topWhat is the Veteran Card – Pharmaceuticals Only
The Veteran Card – Pharmaceuticals Only is for Commonwealth and allied veterans and mariners providing access to concessions on:
- prescription medicines
- wound care items
- nutritional supplements.
Your card cannot be used for medical or other healthcare treatment.
Back to topWho can receive it
To qualify for a Veteran Card – Pharmaceuticals Only, you must:
- be a Commonwealth or allied veteran, or mariner
- have qualifying service from the Second World War
- have lived in Australia for 10 years or more.
What you can receive
The card entitles you to concessions at pharmacies in Australia.
When buying prescription items, you will need to pay $7.70 for each item until you reach your Safety Net Threshold for the calendar year.
If you choose a non-generic brand, you may need to pay more. Talk to your pharmacist about the costs associated with medicines.
You may also get the Veterans Supplement, this is paid automatically if you are eligible. You do not need to apply for this.
Back to topHow to use it
When you go to your doctor for a prescription, show them your Veteran Card. This allows your doctor to give you medicine through the Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS).
When you take your prescription to the pharmacy, remember to show your card to the pharmacy staff.
If you forget to show your card, you might have to pay more for your medicine, and it won't count towards your Safety Net Threshold under the RPBS.
Back to topThings you should know
Our Veteran Cards Privacy Collection Notice explains how information about you is collected, used and disclosed under the Veteran Card arrangements.
Back to topWhat to tell us
If something changes that might affect what you received, let us know within 14 days (or 28 days if you get Remote Area Allowance or live overseas).
You should tell us if:
- your card is lost or stolen
- you change address
- any other changes that could affect your benefits.