Safety Aids & Home Modifications

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Yes — but not under Household Services (HHS) alone. While DVA-funded Household Services covers tasks like cleaning, gardening, and laundry, more structural or safety-related modifications (like grab rails or shower chairs) fall under a different program: the Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP).

ADFV-OHS helps veterans access both.

Under DVA’s RAP guidelines, the following may be approved if clinically justified:

• Grab rails or handrails (bathroom, toilet, entrances)
   
• Fold-down shower seats
   
• Non-slip surfaces
   
• Step wedges or ramps
   
• Lever taps or mobility-enhancing fixtures
   
• Widening doorways or removing thresholds
   
• Bathroom remodelling to allow easier access
   
• Lifts, hoists, or stair aids (complex cases)

Under DVA’s RAP guidelines, the following may be approved if clinically justified:

To access safety or access-related home modifications through DVA:

1. You must have an accepted service-related condition that impacts your ability to safely perform daily tasks.
    
2. You need an assessment from a qualified Occupational Therapist (OT) who can confirm that the modification is clinically necessary.
    
3. DVA must approve the works in advance, they won’t reimburse you if you install something yourself or without following the process.
    
4. If you rent, your landlord must give written approval.
    
5. You must live at the residence long-term (temporary residences are not eligible).

We assist eligible veterans by:

• Organising OT or medical assessments
   
• Helping gather and submit the required DVA forms
   
• Liaising with qualified local tradespeople or suppliers
   
• Ensuring all modifications meet DVA safety, cost, and design standards
   
• Managing the paperwork and process from start to finish
   
• Making sure all support is delivered at no cost to the veteran

• HHS covers domestic services only — modifications must be claimed separately under RAP or other DVA programs.
   
• DVA will not fund upgrades for lifestyle reasons — only for functional or safety needs tied to an accepted medical condition.
   
• You can’t “bank” HHS funds and use them to fund grab rails or other modifications unless approved under a separate program.

If you're unsure whether your needs qualify, or if you're living overseas and unsure how to start, ADFV-OHS is here to assist.

We’ll guide you through the process, coordinate providers, and ensure you receive the full range of services you’re entitled to whilst living abroad.