Learn about DVA chiropractic care and how to access chiropractic services as a Veteran Card holder.
What Is It & How To Apply
Serving in the Australian Defence Force places unique physical demands on the body. Many veterans experience ongoing pain, reduced mobility, or musculoskeletal conditions long after service ends. Being supported by allied health services such as chiropractic care can make a real difference to comfort, mobility, and long-term health outcomes.
At Centenary Chiropractic Centre, we are proud to provide DVA-approved chiropractic services for eligible veterans throughout Brisbane’s western suburbs. This blog explains how DVA chiropractic care works, who is eligible, what to expect from treatment, and how to access care with confidence and clarity.
How Does DVA Chiropractic Care Support Veterans?
Many veterans develop musculoskeletal conditions from the intense physical demands of service. Back pain, joint stiffness, postural issues, and movement limitations are common, particularly from repetitive strain, carrying heavy loads, or sustaining service-related injuries.
Chiropractic care focuses on improving spinal and joint function to relieve discomfort, restore movement, and support everyday activities. It’s a safe, hands-on approach that can make daily life more manageable. As part of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) allied health network, chiropractic care can be funded for eligible veterans under specific guidelines.
What Is DVA Chiropractic Care?
DVA chiropractic care refers to treatment provided by a DVA-recognised chiropractor to eligible veterans. These chiropractic services are funded under the Department of Veterans’ Affairs allied health programs, which also include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and dietetics.
Veterans who hold the appropriate DVA gold or white card and have a valid referral can receive chiropractic care aimed at improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing long-term health.
Who Is Eligible for DVA Chiropractic Services?
Eligibility depends on the DVA card type:
- Gold Card holders are eligible for chiropractic care for any clinical need, regardless of whether the condition is related to military service.
- White Card holders can access chiropractic care for conditions that are accepted by DVA as being service-related, such as injuries sustained during military service.
In both cases, a valid referral from a GP or medical specialist is required to begin care.
How Many Chiropractic Sessions Are Covered by DVA?
Under the Allied Health Treatment Cycle, DVA funds up to 12 chiropractic sessions per referral cycle.
- After 12 sessions, the chiropractor must send a written report to the referring GP.
- The GP can then issue a new referral if further care is needed.
- There is no limit to the number of treatment cycles a veteran may have each year.
- Each referral is valid for 12 sessions or 1 year, whichever comes first.
- Veterans in residential aged care may also be eligible if they are part of a multidisciplinary care plan.
This ensures continuous care, regular progress monitoring, and open communication between your chiropractor and GP.
Do I Need a Referral for DVA Chiropractic?
Yes. A referral from a GP or specialist is required for each 12-session treatment cycle.
This ensures that the care you receive is targeted, appropriate, and compliant with DVA's standards. The referral must be presented before or at your first visit.
Once your 12 sessions are complete or the referral expires, your GP can issue another referral if continued care is required.
What Conditions Can Be Treated with DVA Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic treatment is highly effective in supporting common musculoskeletal issues experienced by veterans, including:
- Chronic back pain
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Joint pain and mobility restrictions
- Postural issues
- Service-related musculoskeletal conditions
Care is tailored to your health history, goals, and the specific condition outlined in your referral.
What Should I Expect at a DVA Chiropractic Appointment?
At your first visit, your chiropractor will:
- Take a full history, including service background
- Perform a thorough musculoskeletal and spinal assessment
Treatments may include:
- Spinal adjustments
- Soft tissue therapy
- Postural or movement advice
- Home exercises
Your chiropractor will monitor your progress, report back to your GP, and work within DVA's clinical documentation guidelines.
What Is the Cost of DVA Chiropractic Services?
Eligible veterans with a valid referral and card entitlement will have their treatments billed directly to DVA.
That means:
- No out-of-pocket costs
- No need to claim rebates
- No upfront payment
Just bring your DVA card and referral to your appointment and we’ll handle the billing.
Can Veterans Use Private Health Insurance Too?
Yes. Many veterans have private health cover alongside their DVA entitlements.
You can use private health:
- If your condition is not covered under your DVA card
- After using your 12 funded DVA sessions
- For additional services beyond the DVA scope
We offer on-the-spot claims using HICAPS where applicable, so you can access the care you need with minimal hassle.
Can Veterans in Aged Care Access DVA Chiropractic?
Yes. Veterans in residential aged care are eligible if:
- They have a Gold or White DVA card
- Their GP has contributed to a multidisciplinary care plan
- A valid referral is provided
Chiropractic care in aged care focuses on maintaining independence, mobility, and quality of life in coordination with other allied health professionals.
How to Book a DVA Chiropractic Appointment
Booking is simple:
- Visit your GP for a referral.
- Bring your DVA Gold or White Card and referral to your appointment.
- Contact Centenary Chiropractic Centre to schedule your first session.
Our team will confirm your eligibility, help you understand the process, and take care of all the paperwork so you can focus on your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral every time?
Yes. A new referral is needed every 12 sessions or annually, whichever comes first.
What does a White Card cover?
It covers service-related conditions only. Check with your GP if you’re unsure.
How many sessions can I have?
Each treatment cycle includes up to 12 sessions, and your GP can issue additional referrals as needed.
Can I combine DVA and private health?
Yes. Private health can be used when DVA funding doesn’t apply or additional treatment is needed.
We’re Here To Help!
To sum up:
- Chiropractic care is funded by DVA for eligible Gold and White Card holders
- A valid GP or specialist referral is required
- Each referral allows 12 sessions, and new referrals can be issued as needed
- There are no out-of-pocket costs for eligible DVA services
- Private health cover can be used for non-DVA care
- Our clinic handles billing, documentation, and communication with your GP
As your local chiropractor for Camira, Ipswich, Brisbane and all surrounding areas, we’re here to help.
If you are a veteran seeking supportive chiropractic care, we are honoured to support your health journey.
Contact Centenary Chiropractic Centre today and let us help you access the care you deserve.
References
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (Australia). (2025). Veteran Cards, Prior Approval and Referrals. Retrieved from https://www.dva.gov.au/providers/veteran-cards-prior-approval-and-referrals
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (Australia). (2025). Chiropractors (Provider Information). Retrieved from https://www.dva.gov.au/providers/information-for-dental-psychology-allied-health-providers/chiropractors
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (Australia). (2025). Allied Health Treatment Cycle for Allied Health Providers. Retrieved from https://www.dva.gov.au/providers/information-for-dental-psychology-allied-health-providers/allied-health-treatment-cycle/treatment-cycle-information-for-allied-health-providers
