Exercise Physiology Funded Through Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)

Access clinically-led Exercise Physiology with eligible funding support

DVA Exercise Physiology funding may support eligible veterans, war widows, and dependants to access Exercise Physiology as part of their ongoing health management.

This page outlines how DVA funding applies to Exercise Physiology services at Healthsmart Exercise Physiology, including eligibility, referral pathways, and administrative processes.

How DVA Exercise Physiology Funding Works

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs administers funding to support the health and wellbeing of eligible veterans and their dependants through approved allied health services, including Exercise Physiology.

Exercise Physiology services under DVA are accessed via an approved referral, typically from a General Practitioner or relevant medical specialist, and are delivered in accordance with DVA clinical and billing requirements.

This funding pathway is designed to support ongoing management of health conditions, functional capacity, mobility, and physical independence.  These services are delivered in line with DVA Exercise Physiology referral and funding requirements.

Eligibility Criteria

  • You hold a DVA Gold Card, White Card (for approved conditions), or other recognised DVA eligibility
  • Exercise Physiology is clinically indicated for an approved condition
  • You have a valid DVA referral from a GP or medical specialist
  • Services are provided by an accredited Exercise Physiologist recognised by DVA

Eligibility and approval are subject to DVA guidelines and individual circumstances.

What Exercise Physiology Can Address Under This Funding

What’s Included in Your Sessions

  • Comprehensive initial assessment
  • Individualised exercise program tailored to your needs
  • Supervised exercise sessions where clinically relevant
  • Ongoing progress reviews and program adjustments
  • Communication and reporting to referring practitioners where required

Session Limits, Gap Fees & Billing

  • Session numbers and duration are determined by DVA referral guidelines
  • Some funding arrangements may have limits on the number of approved sessions
  • Gap fees may apply depending on referral type and funding approval
  • Billing is processed in accordance with DVA requirements

Please contact the clinic for clarification specific to your referral. Session approvals and delivery under DVA Exercise Physiology funding are reviewed periodically in accordance with Department of Veterans’ Affairs guidelines.

Referral & Booking Process

  1. Obtain a valid DVA referral from your GP or medical specialist

  2. Confirm your DVA eligibility and approved condition

  3. Contact Healthsmart Exercise Physiology to schedule your appointment

  4. Attend your initial assessment session

  5. Ongoing sessions are delivered in line with your referral and clinical plan

This process applies to clients, GPs, and DVA case managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. A valid referral from a GP or medical specialist is required for DVA-funded services.

White Card holders may be eligible if Exercise Physiology is required for an approved condition.

Yes. Home-based or clinic-based sessions may be provided, depending on referral details and clinical need.

Session limits depend on your referral and DVA approval. This can vary between individuals.

No. Standard gym memberships are not covered under Department of Veterans’ Affairs funding. However, in some circumstances, funding may be approved for  a gym  as part of an Exercise Physiology program. Eligibility depends on a number of factors.  Please contact us to discuss your individual circumstances.

There are no out of pocket costs for eligible White and Gold Card holders.

Yes. We liaise with referring GPs and DVA case managers as required.

Check Your Eligibility