Leaving the ADF is a significant life change, and that includes how you access and manage your health care.
Our Transition Gateway is here to make that shift simpler. It guides you step-by-step, from preparing for discharge through to setting up civilian health cover and connecting with ongoing support.
What do I need to do before I discharge?
Prepare for how your health care will change once you leave the ADF.
Where do I go when I need day-to-day health care?
Understand how everyday health care works and how to access it.
What government costs and incentives apply to me?
Learn about Lifetime Health Cover, private health insurance rebates and the Medicare Levy Surcharge.
What changes when I move to civilian life?
Learn about Medicare, what it covers and how to register for it.
What happens if I need to go to hospital?
Know where to go for emergency, non-emergency and everyday health care.
What support is available during and after I transition?
Learn how Defence Health supports you and your family, with mental health, counselling and tailored veteran support.
What support does the DVA provide?
Understand Gold Cards, White Cards and Non-Liability Health Care.
Do I need private health insurance after transition?
Learn how private health insurance fits alongside Medicare and DVA.
What changes on my transition date?
Download the Transition Checklist and prepare for how your health care will change once you leave the ADF.
As an Australian Defence Force (ADF) member, you may not have given much thought to the health system. But whether you're single or married with kids, it's something you'll need to get your head around when you transition.
Hear from two Defence Health members that transitioned out of the ADF and what steps they took here.
Why Defence Health?
Non-for-profit
Not-for-profit means we're for family, not shareholders
Veteran Discount
We recognise your service with an ongoing veteran discount of 7%
Tailored products
Defence is in our DNA and our Defence products are designed to support you and your family
Recognise serving families
Special recognition for serving families, transitioning ADF and veterans
Contact us
You can call us on 1800 840 266 if you want to chat about your hospital cover and options. We're here to help.
Already a member? Call us on 1800 335 425 to discuss your membership.