Veteran & Defence Care
Our Promise to You
At Action Physiotherapy, we provide rehabilitation services in Newcastle designed to support current and former defence personnel through every stage of recovery. Our team understands the physical demands of military service and the impact of long-term injuries, chronic pain and musculoskeletal conditions. We deliver DVA-recognised treatment plans that focus on restoring function, building strength and improving quality of life — whether you’re newly discharged or managing service-related injuries over time.
Our clinic offers a respectful, supportive environment with tailored care, ongoing progress tracking and close coordination with GPs, surgeons and other specialists. We focus on helping you return to daily activities with confidence, independence and long-term mobility. Call (02) 4940 8300 to discuss your needs or book an appointment today.
DVA-Approved Treatments
Defence-Aware Team
Ongoing Rehab Support
Coordinated, Respectful Treatment
Support for Service-Related Conditions
Our rehabilitation programs are aligned with Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) entitlements and are delivered by experienced physiotherapists trained in managing complex and long-term conditions. Depending on your situation, we may support you with:
- Recovery from physical trauma or service-related injuries
- Chronic pain and reduced mobility
- Age-related musculoskeletal degeneration
- Pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation
- Mental health-informed movement plans
We prioritise your goals, communicate clearly and work within funding and referral frameworks to keep your treatment on track. We’re here to support those who’ve served, with care that’s collaborative, structured and built to last. Reach out today.
Support that heals
Boots, Braces & Casts
We offer a range of plaster and bracing options depending on the body part injured. Typically, the main indications for CAM boots are mild to severe leg, ankle & foot injuries, which can include:
- Stress fractures
- Ankle sprains
- Post-operative immobilisation
- Stable fractures of the foot and ankle
- Lisfranc injuries
- Soft tissue injuries (e.g. Achilles tear/rupture)
We work closely with your GP or specialist to select the most appropriate cast for your fracture and use the best materials to ensure lightweight comfort and secure healing. Please bring your GP or specialist referral with you to your appointment
FAQ
Everything You Need To Know
What types of injuries do veterans typically need physiotherapy for?
Veterans may seek physiotherapy for a range of service-related injuries, including chronic back or joint pain, mobility limitations, soft tissue damage or post-surgical rehabilitation. Long-term wear and tear from physical demands is also common, and targeted treatment can help manage these issues while improving quality of life.
Is physiotherapy covered by DVA for veterans?
Yes. If you're a Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) client with a Gold or eligible White card and a valid referral from your GP, physiotherapy services are typically covered. Approved treatment may include manual therapy, exercise prescription and pain management. Always confirm your eligibility and referral requirements beforehand.
What should I expect at my first physiotherapy session?
Initial sessions usually include a detailed assessment of your condition, medical history and functional limitations. From there, a physiotherapist will develop a tailored plan to restore mobility, reduce pain and support long-term recovery. Ongoing sessions may include hands-on treatment, supervised exercise or home-based strategies.
Who is eligible for DVA physiotherapy?
To access DVA physio services you must be referred to a physiotherapist who is able to provide services under the Medicare Benefits Scheme. A referral can be issued by:
- Local Medical Officer (LMO)
- General Practitioner
- Medical specialist
- Treating doctor in hospital
- Hospital discharge planner
A referral remains active for twelve months from the date of referral. Referral dates cannot overlap from one twelve-month period to the next. The number of services you receive depends on your clinical need. It is important to have the referral ready when you meet your physiotherapist for the first time - it’s how we bill for our services.
If you do not have a referral, you will not be able to access DVA-subsidised physiotherapy. DVA clients must also present:
- A valid (non-expired) white or gold card
- ID containing the date of birth, and your full name
If you cannot provide these details, you will not be eligible for subsidized rates at the time of your appointment. You will still be able to access physiotherapy services at standard rates, and you will be provided with receipts.
