FAQ
This page answers the most common questions about eligibility, confidentiality, the two NCDT funds, and what happens when you reach out. If you cannot find what you are looking for, contact us directly.
You do not need to have all the answers before reaching out. If something on this page raises more questions, use the contact details at the bottom.
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Eligibility and Who We Help
Who can request support from NCDT?
Current and former Royal Australian Navy Clearance Divers, their partners, and their dependants can request support. You do not need to be in active service or in a formal transition period.
Do I need to be in crisis to ask for help?
No. You can reach out at any point. NCDT exists to provide support both in moments of genuine hardship and as part of longer-term prevention and resilience. Early contact is encouraged.
My family member is a Clearance Diver. Can I request support?
Yes. Partners and dependants of serving and ex-serving Clearance Divers can access support. Family members are a recognised and important part of the community we serve.
I am no longer serving. Can I still access support?
Yes. Ex-serving Clearance Divers remain eligible for support. There is no minimum service requirement or time limit on eligibility once you have served as a Clearance Diver.
Confidentiality and Privacy
Yes. Your information is handled with care and confidentiality. NCDT has a dedicated CD Community Development Liaison role that is separate from the trustees, specifically to protect your privacy.
Your contact and details are handled by the CD Liaison. Information is only shared with trustees to the extent required to assess and respond to your request.
Your information is not shared outside NCDT without your consent. NCDT complies with applicable Australian privacy obligations. For full details, see our Privacy Policy.
Understanding the Two Funds
The NCDT Relief Fund provides immediate, practical financial relief to Clearance Divers and their families facing unexpected hardship. This may include emergency costs, urgent bills, or short-term financial pressure resulting from a crisis or health event.
ABN: 22 993 178 951
The NCDT Transition and Resilience Fund supports prevention-focused programs designed to help Clearance Divers navigate transition, build long-term resilience, and maintain their identity and wellbeing beyond service. Programs include professional coaching, scholarships, and a mentoring initiative.
ABN: 11 636 620 638
If you are facing immediate financial hardship or a crisis, the Relief Fund is the starting point. If you are looking for coaching, career support, or a scholarship, the Transition and Resilience Fund applies. If you are unsure, simply reach out and we will help direct your enquiry.
How to Apply and What Happens Next
Complete the short form on our Request Support page or contact our CD Liaison directly by phone or email. You do not need a referral and you do not need to have your situation fully documented before reaching out.
To triage your request, we ask for basic contact details, your relationship to the Clearance Diving community, and a brief description of what you need help with. You do not need to share sensitive personal details upfront. We will follow up to understand your situation.
We aim to respond within two business days. If you have a pressing situation, contact the CD Liaison directly:
Email: cdliaison@ncdt.org.au
Chair: chairman@ncdt.org.au
NCDT will work with you to explain any decision and, where possible, identify alternative pathways, including referral to relevant services such as DVA or Open Arms. Not every request will fall within our current capacity, but we will not leave you without direction.
Programs and Prevention
Through the Transition and Resilience Fund, NCDT currently offers:
- CD Professional Coaching Program (CDPC): one-on-one coaching for Clearance Divers navigating career transition and identity shift.
- NCDT Scholarship: financial support for further education or professional development.
- CD Identity Management Pilot: a structured program supporting identity and resilience during and after transition.
- Mentoring Program: a new peer mentoring initiative launching in 2026.
Contact us via the Request Support form or directly through the CD Liaison. Program eligibility and availability are confirmed at time of enquiry.
Current programs are primarily designed for serving and ex-serving Clearance Divers. Family member eligibility varies by program. Contact us to discuss your situation.
NCDT Alongside Other Services
No. NCDT support is provided independently of DVA entitlements. Receiving support from NCDT does not affect your eligibility for, or the amount of, any DVA benefit.
Yes. NCDT is designed to complement, not replace, existing Defence and government support systems. Many of the people we support also receive DVA assistance. We can assist with referrals if needed.
NCDT is not a crisis service. If you or someone you care about needs urgent mental health support, please contact one of the following services. They are free, confidential, and available around the clock.
- Open Arms (Veterans and Families Counselling): 1800 011 046
- ADF All-Hours Support Line: 1800 628 036
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
If you are safe but would like to discuss support from NCDT, use the Request Support form or contact us directly.
Governance, Donations and Transparency
Yes. Both NCDT trusts are registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). You can view our registrations at the ACNC website.
- NCDT Relief Fund ABN: 22 993 178 951
- NCDT Transition and Resilience Fund ABN: 11 636 620 638
NCDT receives no government funding. We operate entirely through the generosity of individual donors, corporate sponsors, and community fundraising.
Donations to the Relief Fund go directly to supporting Clearance Divers and families facing hardship. Donations to the Transition and Resilience Fund support prevention programs, coaching, and scholarships. You can choose which fund to support on our Donate page. NCDT publishes annual reports for transparency.
