Changes to initial liability claims processing under a simpler, single Act compensation system from 1 July 2026 will help veterans get the support they need when they need it.
When all new claims come under the improved Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA) from 1 July 2026, providing DVA with a confirmed medical diagnosis and other essential information (such as your service history) will help us progress your claim and support you with earlier access to relevant treatment, rehabilitation or compensation.
Changes to liability under the improved MRCA include:
- Presumptive Liability
The Repatriation Commission will be able to specify injuries and diseases known to have a common connection with military service on a presumptive basis from 1 July 2026. - Medical event on duty
Liability will be accepted for an injury that occurs while the person is ‘on duty’ as a defence member (such as heart attacks and strokes), regardless of whether or not the injury was caused by service. - Accrued rights at review
Where the Repatriation Medical Authority updates a Statement of Principle (SoP) between the veteran’s primary and reviewable decision, the version of the SoP which is most beneficial to the veteran’s circumstances will be applied. - Injuries or deaths arising from treatment
Serving members will be covered for unintended consequences of any treatment provided under Defence health arrangements, including for pre-existing conditions or preventative treatment. - Conditions relating to tobacco use
Claims for conditions relating to tobacco use prior to 1 January 1998 may be accepted as service related from 1 July 2026, ensuring no disadvantage for veterans with VEA and/or DRCA service.
Lodging a claim through MyService also makes it quicker and easier for veterans to manage claims with DVA, with resources to use MyService available on the DVA website.
A range of resources are also available on the DVA website to help the veteran community understand the changes from 1 July 2026.