DVA Information
Understanding Your DVA Nursing Entitlements
If you hold a DVA Gold or White Card, you may be entitled to community nursing services funded by DVA. All services are subject to DVA approval and clinical assessment.
DVA Gold Card
Gold Card holders may be entitled to a range of health services for all medical conditions — not just those related to service. This includes community nursing services where clinically required and approved by DVA.
- Community nursing where clinically required and DVA-approved
- Wound care, medication management, and more
- Palliative and post-hospital care
- Allied health services — subject to separate DVA approval
- DVA-funded services subject to DVA approval and clinical assessment
DVA White Card
White Card holders may be entitled to treatment for accepted service-related conditions. Community nursing services related to those accepted conditions may be funded by DVA. Entitlements are subject to DVA acceptance of the specific condition.
- Nursing care for accepted service-related conditions
- Wound care and medication management
- Post-hospital care for covered conditions
- Allied health for service-related needs — subject to DVA approval
- DVA-funded services subject to DVA approval and clinical assessment
How DVA Community Nursing Works
Your GP, specialist, or DVA case manager submits a referral. We then coordinate with DVA as required. All services are subject to DVA approval and clinical assessment.
Get a Referral
Your GP, specialist, or hospital discharge team submits a referral to SWAST CARE. DVA case managers can also refer directly.
DVA Approval
Where DVA approval is required, SWAST CARE will liaise with DVA on your behalf. Approval is subject to DVA assessment of clinical need and eligibility.
In-Home Assessment
A registered nurse visits your home to conduct a comprehensive assessment and develop a personalised care plan.
Care Commences
Nursing visits begin at a schedule that suits you. Your care plan is reviewed regularly and adjusted as your needs change.
Important — DVA Entitlement Information
The information on this page is a general guide only. DVA entitlements are subject to individual assessment by the Department of Veterans' Affairs. Eligibility for specific services depends on your card type, accepted conditions, and clinical need. SWAST CARE is a contracted community nursing provider — we do not determine DVA entitlements. For authoritative information, contact DVA directly on 1800 838 372 or visit dva.gov.au.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay anything for DVA-funded nursing care?
No. Eligible DVA cardholders pay nothing for approved community nursing services. SWAST CARE bills DVA directly for all funded services.
Who can make a referral for DVA nursing services?
Referrals can be made by your GP, a specialist, or a hospital discharge team. DVA case managers may also refer directly. Please contact us to discuss your specific circumstances.
How quickly can care start after a referral?
We aim to respond to all referrals within one business day and commence care as quickly as clinically appropriate, subject to DVA approval and service availability.
What if I need care that isn't covered by DVA?
If a service is not covered under your DVA entitlements, we will advise you accordingly. Our team will always be transparent about what is and is not covered under your DVA entitlements. Please contact DVA on 1800 838 372 for further information about your specific entitlements.
Can SWAST CARE provide care in rural and regional areas?
SWAST CARE provides services across Australia, subject to service availability in your area. Contact us to discuss whether services are available in your location.
What happens if my care needs change?
Your care plan is reviewed regularly by your nurse. If your needs change, we will update your care plan and, where required, seek revised DVA approval for additional services.
Not Sure What You're Entitled To?
Call our team and we'll help you understand your DVA entitlements and how to access funded nursing care.