DVA White Card scheme

I am writing to you, to encourage a dialogue between the various Ambulance Services, Fire Services, Police Services, Unions and Politicians to improve the working conditions for First Responders.

In February 2019, the Parliament of Australia published a report titled ‘The people behind 000: mental health of our first responders’. The committee had many recommendations around access to mental health services for first responders, but also for retired first responders. The committee had the view that there was evidence to suggest that retired officers may be at higher risk of suffering mental health issues such as PTSD. They recommended that ongoing mental health support services be extended to all first responders who are no longer employees. 

But how can this be achieved?

The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) White Card is a system that covers members for clinically required medical treatment in Australia for accepted service-related injuries or conditions. It also covers treatment for mental health conditions. It is available for current or former Australian Defence Force (ADF) member, including reservists and cadets, with a service-related injury or condition accepted by the DVA. Cover for mental health issues is open for any ADF member with one full day continuous service and reservists who have completed disaster relief service, border protection service, or were involved in a serious service-related training accident.

First responders are repeatedly exposed to stressful situations, trauma, violence and death daily across Australia. For many responders, it is after retirement that they will experience mental health issues, because of their years of service for the community. At the completion of fifteen years’ service to the nation, first responders are rewarded with the Nation Medal, and little else. What is needed is the reassurance that they will be looked after through their service and into retirement. Inclusion into the DVA White Card scheme would guarantee this. The dedication and sacrifice of years of service needs to be acknowledged with more than just a pat on the back and an empty promise. 

The Parliamentary Committee recommended that ongoing and adequate mental health support services to be extended to all first responders who are no longer employees of first responder organisations around the country. The white card would be one option to ensure their recommendations are achieved. I would appreciate your support and feedback on this important issue, and assistance in making it a reality. 

Thank you. 

Andrew Bell 
Andrew.bell@ambulance.qld.gov.au
 
0414 883 348
Advanced Care Paramedic 
Queensland Ambulance Service