Honouring Service: ANZAC Day, DVA, and the Role of Exercise Physiology in Veteran Care
Written by Georgia Saunders | Accredited Exercise Physiologist
Every year on April 25th, Australia and New Zealand pause to honour the courage, sacrifice, and mateship of our service men and women on ANZAC Day. Originally commemorating the landing of Australian and New Zealand troops at Gallipoli in 1915, ANZAC Day now serves as a broader tribute to all those who have served in military operations past and present.
While remembrance is a cornerstone of ANZAC Day, it also highlights our responsibility to support veterans beyond the battlefield. One of the many ways we do this is through healthcare services provided by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)—a vital support system for both current and former Australian Defence Force (ADF) members. Among the diverse services offered through DVA, Exercise Physiology plays an increasingly important role in helping veterans maintain their health, recover from injuries, and live well.
Exercise Physiologists (EPs) are university-qualified allied health professionals who specialise in using movement, physical activity, and lifestyle education to support individuals with chronic health conditions, injuries, or functional limitations. For veterans, this can make a significant difference in recovery and quality of life.
EPs work with DVA clients to address a wide range of physical and mental health issues, including:
- Chronic pain
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Diabetes and other metabolic conditions
- Balance and mobility challenges
Their approach is tailored, goal-oriented, and evidence-based—designed to build physical capacity while supporting mental resilience.
The transition from military service to civilian life can be physically and mentally challenging. For many veterans, structured exercise becomes not just a form of therapy, but a pathway to rediscovering purpose and control. Regular physical activity has been proven to:
- Improve sleep quality
- Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
- Enhance social connection
- Prevent future injuries
These outcomes are critical for long-term wellbeing—and they align with the broader mission of DVA and the values we honour on ANZAC Day: courage, endurance, and the enduring spirit of service.
Eligible veterans can access Exercise Physiology services through the DVA. This includes both individual and group-based sessions, depending on the client’s goals and needs. To access these services:
- A referral from a GP is required under the DVA Health Card system (Gold or White Card).
- The GP will outline the condition being treated, and the EP will work collaboratively to develop a safe, effective treatment plan.
- Progress is reviewed regularly to ensure goals are being met and to adapt the program as needed.
Through this system, DVA ensures that veterans aren’t just treated—but are actively supported in rebuilding strength, function, and confidence.
As we reflect on the sacrifices made by our service members this ANZAC Day, let us also renew our commitment to caring for those who return home. Exercise Physiology, supported by the DVA, is one powerful way we can help veterans live stronger, healthier lives.
If you or someone you know is a veteran struggling with injury, chronic illness, or adjusting to life after service, reaching out to an accredited Exercise Physiologist could be the first step toward a better quality of life.
Lest we forget.
