New scheme for ex-ADF firefighters
In September this year, a new scheme was launched to support Australian Defence Force (ADF) firefighters who participated in fire training at Royal Australian Air Force Base Point Cook between 1 January 1957 and 31 December 1986.
The Scheme recognises the risks faced by these ADF firefighters who were potentially exposed to a wide range of hazardous and, at times, unknown substances during fire suppression training, at a time when personal protective equipment was not of the same standard available today.
ADF firefighters who are eligible under the Scheme can claim compensation if they are diagnosed with any of 31 specified conditions, including all cancers, without having to provide evidence that their condition is related to their service.
In addition, eligible veterans can automatically access:
- free screening for colorectal cancer and melanoma, for early detection and prevention purposes; and/or
- health and lifestyle advice that is tailored to the individual through the Heart Health Program for 12 months.
To submit an application under the ADF Firefighter Scheme and to read the full list of 31 prescribed conditions, please visit the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Firefighter Scheme page.