DVA Exercise Physiology Adelaide
Supporting Veterans Through Movement – No Wait Time for DVA Exercise Physiology in Adelaide
At Thrive Health Therapies, we proudly provide expert DVA exercise physiology services across Adelaide for veterans and their families. Our team of Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) delivers personalised, evidence-based programs designed to support physical function, injury rehabilitation, chronic condition management, and improved quality of life for current and former members of the Australian Defence Force. Whether you're recovering from injury, managing a chronic health condition, or seeking to maintain strength and independence, our team is here to help - offering clinic-based, home-based, and mobile services with no wait time.
What Is DVA Exercise Physiology?
DVA-funded exercise physiology supports eligible veterans under the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) with clinically prescribed movement programs that aim to:
Improve function and independence
Prevent or manage chronic disease
Aid recovery from injury or surgery
Reduce pain and improve mobility
Enhance overall wellbeing and quality of life
Our AEPs are registered with DVA and experienced in working with veterans. We deliver therapy in a way that is tailored, respectful, and aligned with your unique needs and service history.
DVA clients can access services at no out-of-pocket cost with an approved referral from a GP or medical specialist.
Who Is Eligible for DVA Exercise Physiology?
You may be eligible for DVA-funded exercise physiology if you are a:
Gold Card holder – fully covered for all clinically necessary exercise physiology services
White Card holder – covered for exercise physiology related to your accepted conditions
To access services, you’ll need a referral from:
Your GP
A medical specialist
A hospital discharge planner
Once approved, you can start services immediately - no waitlist, no upfront payment.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or the referral process, our friendly admin team can help guide you.
Common Conditions We Support
Our DVA exercise physiologists work with a wide range of conditions, including (but not limited to):
Osteoarthritis and joint degeneration
Chronic back or neck pain
Hip and knee replacements
Shoulder injuries
Diabetes and metabolic conditions
Stroke and neurological conditions
Cardiovascular disease
Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia
Falls risk and balance issues
COPD and respiratory limitations
Chronic musculoskeletal pain
If you’re unsure whether we can help with your specific condition, feel free to contact us directly for a confidential discussion.
How We Support Veterans
At Thrive Health Therapies, we take a holistic, client-centred approach to veteran health. We understand the complex physical and psychological demands of military service and the long-term impact it can have on physical health.
Our exercise physiology programs for veterans may support:
Post-surgical rehabilitation (e.g. hip/knee replacements, spinal procedures)
Chronic conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and COPD
Musculoskeletal pain – including back, neck, shoulder, and joint pain
Balance and falls prevention
Mobility and walking retraining
Mental health and wellbeing
Lifestyle modification, such as building physical activity habits or managing fatigue
All programs are designed with your health history, military service background, current goals, and preferred environment in mind.
What to Expect: Your Exercise Physiology Journey
Step 1: Referral
Get a referral from your GP, medical specialist, or hospital discharge planner. We can assist your provider with the correct DVA referral paperwork if needed.
Step 2: Initial Assessment
Your first session includes a comprehensive assessment:
Medical history and service-related conditions
Current function, mobility, and pain levels
Exercise tolerance, balance, and strength
Your personal goals and preferences
This session guides your tailored program and forms the baseline for progress tracking.
Step 3: Personalised Program
Based on your needs and goals, we’ll create a structured plan which may include:
Strength and resistance training
Cardiovascular fitness
Pain reduction strategies
Core stability and posture retraining
Stretching and mobility work
Falls prevention and balance training
Mental wellbeing through movement
Every program is evidence-based and designed to improve function, confidence, and overall quality of life.
Step 4: Ongoing Support
We deliver regular sessions in your chosen setting. Your AEP will:
Guide each session with expertise and encouragement
Monitor your safety and adjust exercises as needed
Review progress and modify your plan as you improve
Liaise with your GP and other health providers (as required)
Provide home exercise strategies between sessions
Your care is always guided by your goals, pace, and comfort.
Where We Offer DVA Exercise Physiology
We offer community-based, clinic-based and telehealth exercise physiology services to clients throughout Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills:
Community-Based Services: We provide community-based services in your home or at a location convenient to you across Adelaide. Learn more about our mobile exercise physiology services and our home visit exercise physiology services.
1:1 Clinic-Based Services: We provide clinic-based services in our specialised clinic and gym in Findon, which has been designed to be appropriate for a range of presentations and disabilities. Our fully accessible clinic and gym space has a range of specialised equipment, allowing individuals with significant physical disabilities the opportunity to work towards their goals.
Group classes: Our exercise physiologists also run small group classes at our clinic, focused on strength, balance, and conditioning - ideal for those with neurological or physical disabilities who want to build capacity in a supportive environment. Learn more about our exercise physiology group classes.
Telehealth Services: We also offer comprehensive telehealth services, providing clients in Adelaide with convenient, video-based therapy consultations for those who may have difficulty travelling to our clinic or prefer the convenience of remote support. Learn more about our teleheath services.
Funding and Cost
All eligible DVA services are fully funded - no out-of-pocket costs.
What’s required:
Valid DVA Gold or White Card
Referral from a GP, specialist, or hospital
Approved treatment cycle for exercise physiology (up to 12 sessions, renewable)
Need help understanding DVA funding or referral paperwork? Give us a call on 0474 248 081 and our friendly team will able to answer any questions.
Benefits of DVA Exercise Physiology
✔ Convenience
We offer flexible care at home, in our clinic, or via telehealth - removing the need for travel and making therapy more accessible for veterans.
✔ Personalised & Practical
Programs are tailored to your service history, health conditions, goals, and preferred environment - whether at home or in a fully equipped clinic.
✔ Veteran-Centred Care
We understand the physical and mental health challenges faced by veterans and provide respectful and inclusive support.
✔ Support After Surgery or Injury
Our programs assist recovery following surgery, injury, or hospital discharge - reducing complications and supporting a safe return to function.
✔ Holistic & Collaborative
We work closely with your GP, specialists, and other allied health providers to ensure integrated, consistent care throughout your treatment cycle.
FAQs - DVA Exercise Physiology Adelaide
If you can’t find an answer to your question, please contact our friendly team on 0474 248 081 or email enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com
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We work with a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and chronic health conditions. Our programs are always tailored to your situation.
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No. All approved DVA exercise physiology services are fully covered- no gap fees apply.
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Yes! We offer home visits throughout Adelaide. Learn more about our exercise physiology home visit services.
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Absolutely. We provide clear communication and ongoing updates, and we actively collaborate with families, support staff, and other allied health providers.
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Just ask your GP or treating specialist for a referral to exercise physiology under DVA. If you’re not sure what’s needed, we’re happy to help with the paperwork and guide you through the process.
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No! We can start working with new clients right away.
Ready to get started?
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Referral Form
Fill out our easy online referral form and we’ll be in touch!
