CoupleCARE for Defence and Veteran Couples
Strengthen your relationship with CoupleCARE
Military service presents unique challenges for relationships. Frequent postings, periods of separation, the transition to civilian life, and the impact of physical or mental health concerns can place significant pressure on couples. These issues can make it more difficult to maintain strong connections, communicate effectively, and navigate challenges together.
CoupleCARE is a new and innovative initiative being trialled through Open Arms. Developed through a co-design process with current and former ADF members and their partners, it is a free relationship education program tailored to the unique experiences of military and veteran families. The program provides practical, evidence-based skills to help couples strengthen communication, maintain connection, and work together to manage life's challenges.
The CoupleCARE pilot program is currently available between September 2026 to December 2027 for residents of North Queensland, Sydney/ Greater New South Wales, and Western Australia.
How CoupleCARE works
CoupleCARE combines online learning with one-on-one support from a Relationship Educator.
You and your partner will:
- complete six guided online modules at your own pace
- learn practical strategies to support a healthy relationship
- receive personalised support from an Open Arms Relationship Educator after each module, either online or face-to-face where available
- apply new skills to everyday life and future challenges
Benefits of CoupleCARE
The program is designed to help couples:
- communicate more effectively
- strengthen connection and understanding
- recognise relationship strengths and challenges
- build practical skills for managing difficulties
- strengthen emotional and physical intimacy
- build confidence and resilience for the future
Is CoupleCARE right for us?
CoupleCARE is a relationship education program CoupleCARE is not:
- couples counselling or therapy
- a group program
- suitable for relationships requiring more intensive and urgent professional support
If you or your partner needs urgent support, call Open Arms on 1800 011 046.
Register your interest
For more information about CoupleCARE or to register your interest:
- Email: COUPLECARE@dva.gov.au
- Phone: For more information about the program, eligibility criteria, or to refer, please contact Open Arms on 1800 011 046 and ask to connect with the CoupleCARE Project Coordinator in North Queensland.
- Download the program flyer
About the project
CoupleCARE for Defence and veteran couples builds on the established Couple Commitment and Relationship Enhancement (CARE) program and has been adapted through a co-design process led by La Trobe University in partnership with Open Arms.
La Trobe University has been commissioned to undertake an independent evaluation of the CoupleCARE trial to assess whether the program improves relationship satisfaction, relationship functioning and individual wellbeing, and to determine whether the program is acceptable and feasible for delivery through Open Arms.
The project has been approved by the Departments of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs Human Research Ethics Committee (Ref: 723-26).
Further information on research into relationship education programs for Defence and veteran couples is available here.