This report examines the demographic characteristics and prevalence of long-term health conditions among the children of veterans (both current and ex-serving). Data collected in 2021 was used to analyse the 238,000 children living with their veteran parents in Australia. This report and a companion report on spouses living with veteran partners were developed to assist stakeholders such as the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defence to gain a broad understanding of the life context of veterans.
- Cat. no: PHE 355
Key findings
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In 2021, there were 238,000 children living with veteran parents of which 15,900 (7%) had 2 veteran parents
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21% of veterans’ children, and 17% of children with non-veteran parents, had a long-term health condition
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Around half of the veterans’ children with a long-term health condition, aged 15+, had a mental health condition
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1 in 6 children (aged 15–24) of parents separated from ADF for involuntary medical reasons had mental health conditions