DVA-Approved Footwear for Veterans

What Is Medical Grade Footwear?

Medical grade footwear (MGF) is a specialised type of footwear designed for people whose foot or ankle deformities or abnormalities make regular retail shoes unsuitable. Our DVA-approved options include:

• Ready-made footwear — extra-depth and/or extra-width shoes to accommodate your foot structure.
• Custom-made footwear — built to the specific measurements and needs of your feet for unparalleled comfort and functionality.

Unlike everyday retail shoes, medical-grade footwear is tailored to enhance mobility and accommodate specific health needs, making it a suitable choice for veterans requiring additional foot support.

Who Is Eligible for DVA Medical Grade Footwear?

Veterans may qualify for DVA-subsidised footwear if they hold a Veteran Gold Card or a Veteran White Card (for an accepted health condition), and have been assessed by a qualified health provider as having a foot or ankle deformity or abnormality.

Your eligibility ensures access to ready-made or custom-made footwear designed to address conditions like plantar fasciitis, diabetes-related foot problems, oedema (swollen feet) and flat feet.

Why Choose Barefoot Freedom?

We work closely with contracted MGF suppliers to ensure you receive footwear tailored to your specific needs — fitted in person at our St Leonards, Newcastle or Gosford clinics. Here’s what to expect:

• Wide range of DVA-approved footwear — from formal styles to extra-wide options, across a range of medical conditions.
• Custom fit solutions — whether you need ready-made shoes or completely custom designs, our team ensures a fit for you.
• Guidance through the process — our experienced team helps you understand DVA requirements and choose the right footwear.

How Does the DVA Footwear Program Work?

1. Clinical assessment — start with an evaluation by a podiatrist, orthopaedic surgeon, or another qualified health professional.
2. Prescription form — your health provider completes the official DVA Medical Grade Footwear prescription form (D0688).
3. Approval process — the prescription is sent to a contracted MGF supplier, who works with your health provider to design or select your shoes.
4. Follow-up — within 1-2 months, your health provider ensures the fit, quality and suitability of your new footwear.

Medical Grade Footwear for Active Veterans

Veterans participating in recreational activities like bowling or golf may be eligible for additional recreational MGF designed specifically for these purposes. At Barefoot Freedom, we offer options that balance functionality and activity-specific support.