From 1 July 2026, the current three-Act system will be simplified, so that all new compensation and rehabilitation claims lodged from this date will be determined under a single ongoing Act, an improved version of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA).
For the most part, there won’t be too many changes for veterans with service commencing after 2004. Importantly, there will be no change to any payments already being received.
Payments under the VEA and DRCA schemes will also continue uninterrupted and be indexed as normal, though both schemes will close to new claims on 30 June. Existing recipients will continue to receive their payments as usual.
All veterans and veteran families will then be able to make new claims under the improved MRCA from 1 July, regardless of when a veteran served, or when their injuries or diseases occurred. This will provide a single, clearer pathway for accessing support.
While the Department cannot provide personalised claims advice, a range of resources is available to help you make the most of the improved system from 1 July.
This includes:
- more than 20 fact sheets that provide information on specific topics and summaries of the impact for particular groups
- frequently asked questions
- scenarios that demonstrate how the improved MRCA may impact individual circumstances.
- The Making a Claim guide on the DVA website at www.dva.gov.au/claimguide
Advocates are also being supported to ensure they can continue to assist veterans with their claims.
These changes will enable veterans and their families to better understand their entitlements and receive the support they need, when they need it.
For everything you need to know about the changes from 1 July, go to: www.dva.gov.au/legislationreform