Gold Card and White Card
- Gold Card: covers health care for all of your medical conditions, whether or not they are related to service
- White Card: covers treatment for conditions accepted by DVA as related to service, and for some other conditions depending on your circumstances
Your card, your eligibility and what it covers are decided by DVA, so check your card and DVA’s information if you are unsure.
How funding works
DVA pays approved providers directly at DVA rates. If the clinic is a DVA provider and your treatment is covered, you may pay nothing for the appointment. Some clinics bill DVA directly; others may not be registered to treat DVA clients.
Referrals and treatment cycles
For allied health services such as physio, DVA generally requires a referral from your GP or specialist. The referral covers a block of treatment, called a treatment cycle, which has a limit on sessions and time. When a cycle ends, you go back to your GP for a new referral if you need more care.
The exact limits and rules can change, so ask your GP or the clinic and check DVA’s website for current arrangements.
What to ask a clinic
- Are you registered to treat DVA clients?
- Do I pay anything, or do you bill DVA directly?
- Do you need a referral before the first appointment, and what should it say?
- Can you provide home or hospital visits if I need them?
- Have you worked with veterans and do you offer programs for my condition?
See our referral guide for how referrals work for physio more generally.
Common reasons veterans see a physio
Veterans and families commonly see physios for back, neck, knee and shoulder problems, after injury or surgery, for chronic pain, and for balance and strength. You may also be eligible for exercise programs.
If you have a health condition affecting your daily life, ask your GP about other supports, and see our guide on falls prevention and balance physio.
Support if you need it
Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling offers free and confidential counselling and support on 1800 011 046. If you or someone you know is in danger, call 000.
Other funding options
If DVA does not cover your care, other options include private health extras. See our cost guide and Medicare guide.
Common questions
Do I need a referral for DVA physio?
Generally yes, from your GP or specialist. It covers a set treatment cycle.
What happens when the treatment cycle ends?
You see your GP for a new referral if you need more care.
Will I pay anything with a Gold Card?
If the clinic bills DVA directly and your treatment is covered, you may pay nothing. Confirm with the clinic first.
Looking for a physio who treats DVA clients? Find a physio and ask about DVA when you call.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or physio about your own situation.
More guides
Does Medicare cover physio?
What Medicare, private health and other schemes can cover.
Read the guideDo you need a referral to see a physio?
When you can book directly and when a referral helps.
Read the guideHow much does a physio cost in Australia?
Typical fees, what changes the price, and ways to pay less.
Read the guideReady to book?
Find a physio near you
Compare clinics by cost, rebates and opening hours, then call your top three.