DVA Simplifies Veterans’ Claims with One New Compensation System

The Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) has implemented a simplified system for veterans' compensation and rehabilitation claims, effective from 1 July 2026. Key points include:

• All new claims will be processed under a single Act, the improved Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA), which replaces the previous tri-Act system (VEA, DRCA, MRCA) for claims made before this date.

• This reform aims to make the system easier to use and ensure consistent compensation outcomes for Defence personnel, veterans, and their families.

• The changes align with recommendations from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide to provide clearer, more accessible support.

• The Veterans' Entitlements Transition Scheme (VETS) Act offers greater clarity on benefits and entitlements for veterans and their families.

• DVA provides various resources, including information booklets, fact sheets, and scenarios, to help understand the reforms and their impact.

• The consultation process for these legislative reforms involved extensive engagement to ensure the changes meet the needs of the veteran community.

For more details, visit the Veterans' Legislation Reform page.