Krystal joined the ADF as an Aircraft Technician, a passion she still holds today. She loved the recruitment phase, loved the discipline, and threw herself into the role. But when she was injured, everything changed.
Medically downgraded for around a year, she was put to one side. The sense of pride and purpose she had built quickly eroded. She was accused of lying about the severity of her pain, despite attending medical twice a week. Rather than feeling supported, she felt dismissed and began neglecting herself as a result.
The pain never faded. It became chronic, present every single day. When it reached its lowest point, Krystal decided she had to do something for herself. “How is it fair not to do anything at all,” she said.
Take the first step by contacting our dedicated team of experts, who stand ready to simplify the process, advocate for your rights, and provide the holistic support you need for a brighter future.
Leaving the ADF was not straightforward. While some parts felt manageable, others left Krystal lost and without direction. There were no updates on her paperwork, she had to chase those herself. There was no guidance on what came next. And there was an overwhelming volume of information being thrown at someone already carrying enormous weight, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Her understanding of DVA and compensation entitlements was close to zero. She had attempted the paperwork alone and found it deeply stressful. “God, was that stressful. I hated every moment of it.”
Krystal came across VetComp through a family member who suggested she speak with an advocate. From that first contact, things opened up. Her eligibility, the process, what she was actually entitled to. The burden she had been carrying alone began to lift.
She also noted how meaningful it was to have female representation available within the VetComp team. As a woman who had at times found serving in the ADF uncomfortable, knowing there were options and that veterans like her did not have to navigate sensitive conversations without a choice mattered deeply.
But what struck Krystal most was something simpler. For the first time, she felt validated. Heard. Understood. “It gave me a sense of purpose back, in a way.”
Her advice to other veterans, especially younger ones, is straightforward: don’t neglect yourself, and don’t wait. “They were there, they listened, they had understanding. As a veteran, that’s all you need.”
Take the first step by contacting our dedicated team of experts, who stand ready to simplify the process, advocate for your rights, and provide the holistic support you need for a brighter future.
All Hours Support – 1800 628 036
Defence Family Helpline – 1800 624 608
All Hours Support – 13 11 14
Help Line – 1800 737 732
