THE HON. WARREN SNOWDON MP
Minister for Defence Science and Personnel
Tuesday, 19 May 2009
076/2009
ADF FAMILY HEALTHCARE TRIAL GETS UNDERWAY
The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, the Hon. Warren Snowdon MP,
today officially launched the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Family Health Care
trial in Cairns.
Mr Snowdon said that under the trial approximately 2,700 Defence dependants in
Cairns (QLD), Singleton (NSW), Katherine (NT), Sale (VIC) and the Pilbara
region in WA can access basic health care at little or no cost.
“Looking after Defence families is something this Government takes seriously and
this initiative will provide practical support to the dependants of ADF personnel,”
Mr Snowdon said.
“We are testing delivery models to ensure that ADF dependants will not only be
able to access basic medical care at little or no cost, but they have choice and
flexibility about who they consult with. Here in Cairns, 54 doctors have already
agreed to support the ADF Family Health Trial. Medicare Australia will administer
these services through bulk billing arrangements.
“The trial also has provision for dependants to claim up to $300 each for non-
cosmetic dental services, which can be accessed at any dentist in Australia.”
Dependants registered for the trial will be issued with an ADF Family Health card
which will enable them to submit claims electronically at most dentists, up to the
capped amount.
Navy Health Ltd has been engaged by Defence to provide the ADF Family Health
card, as well as customer service and claims processing. Navy Health Ltd come
to Defence with over 50 years experience in the health industry..
“The ADF Family Health Trial is one way we can support Defence families as
they support our Defence men and women.”
The trial will be expanded to include Townsville (QLD), Darwin (NT) and
Puckapunyal (VIC) in October, allowing about a further 13,300 ADF dependants
to benefit from this initiative.
Media Contact:
Kate Sieper (Warren Snowdon):
(02) 6277 7620 or 0488 484 689
Defence Public Affairs:
(02) 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664
NEWS 
