An Independent Voice
The Defence Force Welfare Association is an independent voice for Australian Defence Force members, veterans, and their families.
We advocate to government on matters affecting the welfare of this group of Australians, including:
The Defence Force Welfare Association is funded by branch membership fees and donations.
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Our Current Focus
In February 2020, the Prime Minister announced the creation of a new National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention. The proposed National Commissioner recognised that too many Defence members and veterans take their own lives, and that action is needed to ensure that everything possible is done to prevent these…
In March 2018, the Prime Minister announced that the Productivity Commission was to inquire into whether the system of compensation and rehabilitation for veterans (Serving and Ex-serving Australian Defence Force members) is fit for purpose, now and into the future. The Report The report of the inquiry – A Better Way…
Invalidity benefits paid through Defence Force superannuation schemes are generally taxed at a higher rate than invalidity benefits paid through civilian superannuation insurance schemes.
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Latest Updates
From 24 January, veterans can access free Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs). This scheme is available to all holders of eligible Australian Government concession cards: Department of Veteran’s Affairs Gold, White or Orange CardCommonwealth Seniors Health CardHealth Care CardLow Income Health CardPensioner Concession Card. You can access up to 10 RATs over a 3 month period (max 5 over a 1 month period) through community pharmacies. You will need to attend a participating community pharmacy in…
If you are receiving a Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits (DFRDB) or Military Super (MSBS) Class A or B Invalidity Benefit, you may be able to pay less tax if you have your benefits classified as Disability Superannuation Benefits. In some cases, the tax savings are substantial. Tax savings may be available in one of two ways: Modification for Disability Superannuation Benefits orDisability Superannuation Benefit Tax Offset. Both ways are outlined below, including how…
Updated 06 January 2022 Key Points Don’t panic.Government will introduce legislation to reverse the Federal Court decision in Douglas.Veterans who were better off because of Douglas will receive a new non-refundable tax offset.Legislation has not been released. Minister has advised bill will be introduced in February 2022.DFWA and other ESOs will absolutely oppose any legislative change that removes any tax or other benefits flowing from the decision in Douglas, particularly in relation to pensions classed…
DFWA is seeking feedback on our proposed policy objectives. Let us know what you think, what the priority should be, or if we have missed an important issue.