Australian Defence Veterans' card: How it can serve you and your business

Ben Hayward • Mar 09, 2020

Defence service recognition widens with Defence Veterans' Covenant

The new look cards, with the white card now available to veterans who have served in the Australian Defence Forces.

The Australian Defence Veterans’ Covenant was announced by the Prime Minister, the Hon Scott Morrison MP, and the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, the Hon Darren Chester MP, on 27 October 2018.

The Covenant encourages the Australian community to acknowledge the unique nature of military service, and support veterans and their families.

Underpinning the Covenant is the Veteran Card, the Lapel Pin and the Oath.

Have you applied?

Firstly, you would think every ADF veteran would know about this card however I know many, myself included, who were a little slow on the uptake or heard about it second hand. If you've served in the ADF then you will be eligible to apply for one if you haven't already and yes, this includes reservists who meet a range of criteria.

Depending how you fit within the criteria matrix, you'll receive a card, lapel pin and a printed oath (mine turned up via courier).

There are a number of benefits for card holders (outside of traditional DVA services).

Translink (QLD)

PCC and Queensland Gold Veteran Card and Veteran White Card holders are entitled to a concession fare for travel on Translink and regional ferry services. A concession fare is 50% cheaper than an adult fare.

TPI and EDA Gold Veteran Card holders must have a TPI/EDA Veteran Travel Card to receive unlimited free travel on approved Translink and regional ferry services.

For more information phone Translink on 13 12 30 or visit their website at www.translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/concessions/pensioners-and-veterans.

More details

Do you offer a defence discount?

Businesses offering defence discounts is nothing new, particularly if you live in a town or city with a large defence presence however it is evolving into a coordinated nation-wide approach with services such as Australian Partners of Defence (APOD).

APOD is endorsed by DVA and run by veteran families in an effort to make it easier for business to engage with the veteran community.

Typically, you will have to show your card at participating businesses or other methods of proof as mentioned on the APOD site.

It's also worth checking in with your insurance and other utility providers to see if they offer a discount on services as well. For example, Defence Health provides an instant 5% off for white card holders.

Check out APOD

I'm a business owner - how do I get involved?

As we touched on above there are many ways to connect with the defence veteran community within your area by either simply advertising that you offer a veteran’s discount, or if you're wishing to cast a wider net, through partners such as APOD or your local chamber of commerce.

DVA estimates there are over 641,000 veterans living in Australia (2018) who have served either full or part time within the ADF. It's certainly a community and consumer cohort that you want to connect with.

As always, if you have any question on how to connect your business within the defence community you can contact me here.

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