Advocate for the Physiotherapy Profession.
DVA Pricing Template:
[Your Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State, Postcode]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
Date: [Insert Date]
To:
The Hon. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
GPO Box 9998
Canberra ACT 2601
Email: [Insert appropriate DVA email, e.g., generalenquiries@dva.gov.au]
Subject: Inadequate Remuneration for Physiotherapy Services under DVA Schedule
Dear Minister,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the inadequate pricing structure the Department of Veterans’ Affairs currently offers for physiotherapy services under the DVA schedule. As a veteran I am now becoming aware that the current rates do not reflect the true cost, complexity, and professional standards required to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care. More and more physiotherapy clinic are limiting or declining to accept referrals.
The discrepancy between DVA rates and those recommended by the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) or charged within the private sector is both significant and unsustainable. It not only places financial strain on physiotherapists but is also now reducing the availability and quality of care for veterans—many of whom present with complex, chronic, or service-related conditions that require comprehensive treatment.
In recent years, inflation, increasing operational costs, and professional development requirements have only widened this gap. Yet, the DVA pricing structure has remained largely stagnant. This undervaluation directly impacts the viability of physiotherapists continuing to offer services to DVA clients, with many considering withdrawal from the scheme altogether.
I respectfully urge the Department to:
Conduct a comprehensive review of the current DVA physiotherapy fee schedule;
Engage meaningfully with professional bodies such as the APA to develop fairer remuneration standards;
Implement pricing reforms that reflect the clinical expertise, time, and care physiotherapists invest in our veteran population.
Our veterans deserve timely access to the highest standard of care. This cannot be achieved without adequate support and fair compensation for the healthcare professionals who serve them.
It should also be noted that the low financial value attributed to physiotherapy services is having knock on effects with other bodies sighting this low value as an indication of standard treatment costs. I appreciate your attention to this matter and welcome the opportunity to discuss this issue further or provide input into any review processes.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Position/Title]
[Your Provider Number (if applicable)]