This report examines the demographic characteristics and prevalence of long-term health conditions among the civilian spouses of veterans. Data collected in 2021 was used to identify 315,000 civilian spouses living with veterans in Australia. This report and a companion report on children living with veteran parents 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 366
Key findings
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In 2021, there were 315,000 civilian spouses living with a veteran (94% were female)
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52% of spouses reported a long-term health condition, with mental health reported for 11% of females and 8% of males
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22% of spouses were providing unpaid assistance to a person with a disability, health condition, or due to old age
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36% (114,000) of veteran spouses had children (of any age) living with them on Census night