How to make a DVA claim in 2026
Every DVA claim follows the same path: a diagnosis, an initial liability claim, then a permanent impairment assessment. Here's each step in plain English.
Rates and rules checked October 2026
The short version
Get a diagnosis
DVA needs a diagnosis from a qualified health professional for each condition you claim. Your GP or treating specialist can provide it.
Lodge an initial liability claim
Lodge online through MyService (myGov linked to DVA) under "Initial Liability", or by paper form, phone on 1800 838 372 or email. This claim asks DVA to accept that your condition is related to your service.
DVA decides liability
DVA checks your service and evidence, usually against the Statement of Principles for the condition. Many conditions are now accepted on diagnosis if you meet the service test.
Claim permanent impairment
Once a condition is accepted and has stabilised, DVA assesses how much it affects you under GARP M 2026 and works out your compensation.
Choose weekly or lump sum
You're paid weekly for life, or you can convert some or all of it to a lump sum within six months of DVA's notice.
What evidence you need
- A diagnosis for each condition from a qualified health professional.
- Proof of identity, if you don't lodge through MyService.
- Your service details. DVA gets most of these from Defence, but your own records help if anything is disputed.
Specialist reports, audiograms for hearing claims and imaging for joint and spinal claims make a big difference at the permanent impairment stage.
Treatment while you wait
You don't have to wait for a decision to get mental health treatment. The Veteran White Card covers treatment for any mental health condition under Non-Liability Health Care, without an accepted claim.
Provisional Access to Medical Treatment (PAMT), which covered 20 common conditions while a claim was assessed, is closed to new claims: it only applies to claims lodged before 30 June 2026, and access ends on 31 December 2026 or when the claim is decided, whichever comes first.
Everything goes through the MRCA now
From 1 July 2026 every new claim is decided under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004, whenever you served. The VEA and DRCA are closed to new claims. What that means for you.
How long it takes
In the year to 31 July 2026, initial liability decisions under the MRCA took an average of 327 days. More on wait times.
Common questions
How do I lodge a DVA claim?
Does it cost anything to lodge a DVA claim?
Can I claim for more than one condition at once?
Sources
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