Australian Defence Veterans’ Covenant

The Australian Defence Veterans’ Covenant serves to recognise and acknowledge the unique nature of military service and the contribution of veterans and their families. The Covenant is supported by the Veteran Card, Lapel Pin and Oath.

The Veteran Card provides access to specific health treatment services. The Lapel Pin provides the opportunity for Australians to identify veterans when they are not in uniform or wearing their medals. The Oath is a declaration on behalf of the Australian people to give enduring and formal recognition of veterans and families.

Veteran cards

Veteran Card

Use your Veteran Card to gain access to treatment for service-related conditions or injuries that DVA has approved, and access to DVA-funded mental health treatment, if required.

Support or benefits from participating businesses and organisations.

Lapel pins in boxes

Lapel Pin

The Lapel Pin allows the wider community to acknowledge your service regardless of whether you served in the Navy, Army or Air Force.

Oath

Oath

The Oath is a declaration on behalf of the Australian people recognising the valuable contribution that current and former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and their families make and have made for our country.

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How veterans can apply

Those who have served in the Permanent Forces or Reserves of the ADF can apply for the Covenant, including the Veteran Card, Lapel Pin and Oath. Depending on your type of service, you may be eligible for all, or some, of the Covenant items.

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How to support veterans

Employers, businesses, local community groups and the broader Australian public are able to commit their support for the Covenant to recognise and acknowledge the contribution of veterans and their families.

Screenshot of Veterans' Employment Program website

Veterans' Employment

The Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program was initiated in 2016 to raise awareness of the value and unique experience of veterans. Find out more about how the program assists veterans and employers on the Veterans' Employment web site

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Ex-Services Organisations

Find out more about community groups and Ex-Service Organisations and their work to support veterans and their families.