Program Key Messages

Defence Community Dogs is the only independent program in Australia that trains dogs to Assistance Dog level and provides them at no cost to Australian Defence Force Veterans.

: Over 7 years experience training assistance dogs specifically for the Defence Community

: Professional dog trainers, certified and led by world renowned dog trainer Steve Austin

: We train our dogs with low security inmates at Correctional facilities for training continuity

: Our dogs are individually paired with a Veteran's mental and physical requirements; to ensure suitability for successful placement and better long term well-being outcomes

: We provide an intensive in person 8-day inmate/Veteran supported handover of the dogs

: We give ongoing support to Veteran Recipients for the duration of their time in the program; including supervision and enabling Veteran preparations for the Dog's Public Access Test

Veterans who have received Defence Community Assistance Dogs have described their dogs to be a truly invaluable part of their rehabilitation; reporting improved sleep patterns, reduced episodes of stress and anxiety, reduced reliance on medication, greater independence and a renewed ability to reconnect with family, friends and within society.

" It’s changed my life. It’s brought me back to the person I used to be. This program is just absolutely amazing. I wouldn’t be here today without it. Lola was one day off being euthanased and now she has saved my life."

Mick and Lola

Every dog in the Defence Community Dogs (DCD) program is a rescued or re-homed dog and must pass a strict health and temperament assessment, before being accepted to undergo training. A DCD dog undertakes at least 8 to 10 months of training; a minimum 250 hours of professional dog training, before becoming a service dog.

To graduate, the Defence Community Dog must pass numerous assessments.

Each dog is allocated to a specially selected, low security inmate handler for the duration of their time within the program, spending 24 hours a day together to allow for intensive training ... ready to meet the needs of their Veteran recipient

The dogs are specifically trained in behaviours that assist in reducing PTSD anxiety. These include turning on a portable light following a night terror, scanning rooms before entry, and a ‘Block’ command which provides a physical personal space barrier; such as when using an ATM or in large crowds. Most importantly to the Veterans, the dogs are loyal, provide unconditional love and always have their owners back.

There are many other ways these dogs assist Veterans, who are injured or suffering from PTSD, include tackling some of the everyday tasks we take for granted such as opening doors, turning on lights and taking washing out of the machine.

Defence Community Dogs are trained by low security inmates, to allow for consistency and dedication of training - 24 hours, 7 days a week. The dogs will mirror this dedication to their own Veteran. Not one inmate who has graduated the program has reoffended.

“This program has changed my life; it’s taught me to be kind and patient, as well as the importance of being a role model for someone in your duty of care... there’s a prominent sense of trust and honour in being able to train and nurture a Labrador for a life-changing purpose."

"I got involved because I saw how it changes lives of Veterans and their families. It's helped me learn new skills, like leadership, consistency, love ... and to be able to communicate. I could not do that before this program. I've come a long way."