Defence and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) worked together to develop a joint Defence and Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy.
The strategy sets out the joint approach of promoting and supporting wellbeing, through early intervention and prevention, timely access to care and support, and a positive and connected community, while focussing on suicide prevention, and using data to drive positive outcomes.
Consultation
Serving personnel and veterans were consulted during development of the strategy.
In February 2025, all Australians were encouraged to have their say on the Defence and Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy Exposure Draft. Consultation closed in March 2025.
The feedback received helped finalise the Defence and Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2025-2030, launched on 4 September 2025.
Support
All personnel and their families should know if they need support they can contact:
- Defence All-hours Support Line: 1800 628 036
- Defence Member and Family Helpline: 1800 624 608
- Open Arms: 1800 011 046 or visit www.openarms.gov.au
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au
Additional Helplines are also available.