Australian military and veterans' mental health care: improving assessment of military personnel and veterans.

OBJECTIVE: To describe key practical knowledge and skill components required for clinicians involved with the assessment of military personnel and veterans. CONCLUSIONS: Assessment of military and veterans' mental health issues involves a tailored history-taking process that includes specific aspects of service, transition and reporting requirements. Recommendations for the detailed assessment of military personnel and veterans are provided. Comorbid conditions, chronic pain and the needs of both women and older veterans are also discussed.