Veteran health research and tools
Understanding the unique physical and mental health impacts of military service to create practical tools and support for veterans and their families
Gallipoli Medical Research’s military connection is at the heart of what we do.
Based at the former war and repatriation hospital, now Greenslopes Private Hospital, GMR has built a reputation in Australia and internationally for leading innovative medical research.
We understand the unique physical and mental health impacts of military service, and through our groundbreaking veteran research, tools and programs, we aim to enrich the lives of current and ex-serving personnel and their families during service, transition from ADF, and beyond.
We do this through pioneering evidence-based research that addresses biopsychosocial health issues and wellbeing among veterans and their families.
Our areas of expertise are underpinned by our key research themes—healthy veterans, healthy families and healthy communities—and an enduring commitment to unlocking the value of research by translating knowledge into tools and programs that are useable in daily life.
Why we do what we do
60%
of ADF veterans have a long-term health condition
13%
of previous service members need assistance with core activities of self-care, mobility or communication
78
ADF veterans die by suicide each year (three deaths per fortnight for the past 10 years)
Our pioneering veteran research includes:
World-first PTSD research in Australian veterans (2013), which identified PTSD as a systemic disorder that impacts multiple organ systems, confirming the need for integrated healthcare that addresses psychological and physical health.
A multi-phased veteran reintegration study into contemporary veterans and their families, that included one of the largest global qualitative studies with data gathered from more than 1000 veterans.
The creation of world-first, evidence based psychosocial tools such as M-CARM and MT-Ready, which play a vital role in identifying and supporting those at risk of poor outcomes during their transition from the ADF. More than 3000 veterans have used the tools, with over 50% presenting with three or more needs.
A vision where every ADF member, veteran and their families are empowered for greater health and wellbeing, is paramount for all of us to lead together.
Research with real-world impact
We address contemporary health issues among veterans and their families, with the goal of translating our research into practical tools and programs for better community health outcomes.
Our world-first tools, MT-Ready and M-CARM, developed in partnership with RSL Queensland, are the only evidence-based programs in the world that holistically prepare current and ex-serving personnel for a successful transition from the ADF.
We are also aware that when a veteran serves, so do their families. We are the only Australian organisation conducting research into the needs of transitioning family members.
Image: courtesy of Department of Defence
Serving and ex-serving veteran health tools
MT-Ready is a quick, valid and reliable method to assess mental readiness for the transition from Defence.
M-CARM is a practical tool to assess how veterans are adjusting and reintegrating to civilian life after military service.
Go Beyond is a training program to help veterans navigate life beyond service.
An online program designed specifically for veterans to provide physical, mental, and emotional health information, tips and support.
This e-learning platform provides practitioners who support ex-serving personnel with training on the M-CARM and Go Beyond programs.
The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide
The most significant and comprehensive inquiry conducted into suicide and suicidality in the ADF and veteran community.
GMR supported the Royal Commission throughout the process, including our researchers giving evidence on research findings.
GMR is recognised in Volume 5 for its work in evaluating the ADF Transition Training Program Pilot. This program helps service members adjust to civilian life by addressing their unique challenges and preparing them for post-military careers.
The research and planning that GMR is already doing is consistent with a number of the Royal Commission’s recommendations.
A priority recommendation was the establishment of the Defence and Veteran’s Services Commission: to provide independent oversight and evidence-based advice to government to improve suicide prevention and wellbeing outcomes for current and ex-serving ADF members.
The commission will commence on 29 September 2025.
We are wholeheartedly committed to our role in turning the recommendations of the Royal Commission into action for the 580,000 current and ex-serving personnel in Australia, and their families.
Learn more about our partners and team
Our internationally renowned researchers and clinicians focus on creating knowledge through evidence-based research, and translating it into meaningful solutions to support current and ex-serving personnel.
We also maintain close relationships with research, government, not-for-profit and ex-service organisations to support the advancement of research and innovation.
