Veterans urged to check eligibility for ADF Firefighters Scheme
By APDR
Veterans who served as firefighters at RAAF Base Point Cook between 1 January 1957 and 31 December 1986 are being urged to investigate their eligibility for the ADF Firefighters Scheme. To date, some 268 of DVA’s clients have an accepted eligibility under the scheme, an initiative launched by the Australian Government in 2021.
The Air Force Association (AFA) is encouraging former ADF members who served as ADF Firefighters to determine if they qualify for health care and compensation benefits designed to address service-related challenges.
Deanna Nott, National Vice President and Director of Communications for AFA, highlighted the scheme’s importance, crediting former AFA President Carl Schiller OAM CSM for convincing the Government to agree to its creation. “A significant part of what Carl achieved for veterans from the three Services was getting this scheme established,” said Nott.
The program targets ADF Firefighters who may have been exposed to risks during their service at Point Cook, offering health care and compensation support. As of 10 February 2025, 161 of the 268 eligible veterans have lodged claims for compensation, a notable number for this specialised group but others may be eligible for health care and compensation. The scheme provides access to fully funded health screenings for conditions like colorectal cancer and melanoma, alongside compensation options for a range of prescribed health issues. For those who qualify, the process is simplified – veterans don’t need to prove every detail of causation and previously rejected claims can be resubmitted for review.
Nott emphasised the need to reach more veterans. “We want to ensure everyone who’s eligible knows what’s available,” she said.
The AFA, which supports serving and former aviators and their families through advocacy, connection and community, is actively working to raise awareness. If you served as an ADF firefighter at Point Cook between 1957 and 1986, it’s worth exploring your eligibility. Contact the DVA at 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) or check their website for details at https://www.dva.gov.au/get-support/financial-support/compensation-claims/claims-if-you-were-injured-1-july-2004/australian-defence-force-adf-firefighter-scheme.
