When a person serves in our ADF their family serves alongside them, that’s why it’s so important we invest in the wellbeing of the whole family.
The Hon Matt Keogh MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
Minister for Defence Personnel
Healthcare is set to become more affordable for Defence families, with the expansion of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Family Health Program from today.
Families can now claim more services than ever before, including ambulance cover, help to quit smoking and pharmaceuticals.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, The Hon Matt Keogh MP, said feedback from ADF members and Defence families was invaluable in informing the improvements.
“Direct feedback showed that while families value the ADF Family Health Program, more could be done to increase access to affordable healthcare,” Minister Keogh said.
“When a person serves in our ADF their family serves alongside them, that’s why it’s so important we invest in the wellbeing of the whole family.”
From mid-2023, Defence will also double the current annual allowance per dependant to $800 and further expand services that families can claim.
The expanded services align directly with the Government’s National Preventive Health Strategy to increase the overall health and wellbeing of Australians.
“We know our people are Defence’s most important capability, and this extends to our Defence families. This is one of many initiatives we are implementing to benefit our people and their loved ones,” Minister Keogh said.
The Albanese Government is committed to delivering cost of living relief for families all over Australia, including delivering on a better future for Defence families.
To sign up to or receive more information on the ADF Family Health Program, visit the website.
15 DECEMBER 2022
MEDIA CONTACT: Stephanie Mathews (Minister Keogh’s Office): 0407 034 485
Defence Media: media@defence.gov.au
