The Department of Veterans’ Affairs is finalising contracts with dog training organisations around Australia to provide highly trained assistance dogs for Australian Defence Force veterans suffering from mental health issues.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Darren Chester said the initiative had first been raised by veterans during several roundtable discussions across Australia.
“I am confident it will deliver long-term mental health benefits,” Mr Chester said.
“I’ve met many veterans over the past 12 months who’ve told me their dog has helped to save their life. Now the Government will take some of the financial pressure off individuals along with voluntary and ex-service organisations which have previously funded assistance dogs from their own fundraising efforts.”
Mr Chester said he expected eligible veterans would be matched with dogs in the coming months.
“This decision demonstrates we are determined to work with veterans and their families with a focus on the overall wellbeing of the individual and use more innovative approaches to issues like mental health,” Mr Chester said.
“The veteran community has been purchasing dogs for several years and the support from the Federal Government will extend the benefits to more veterans.”
He said the decision to fund assistance dogs for veterans came on top of a trial being undertaken by La Trobe University with Federal Government support.
Mr Chester said the $2 million trial would continue and inform future policy decisions.
“We will have up to 20 participants in that trial and it will take into account the specific needs of the participating veteran, including the most appropriate breed and temperament of dog, and the bonding process between the dog and participant,” the Minister said.
