If you’ve been injured or fallen ill while serving in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), either in the reserves or as a permanent member, you may be entitled to financial compensation and benefits.
Military compensation schemes exist to support current and former ADF members, cadets, instructors, and AFP members with approved service.
Our experienced military compensation lawyers can guide you through the claims process to ensure you get the compensation you’re entitled to.
Types of DVA claims
Military compensation claims cover a range of physical and psychological injuries. We've achieved successful outcomes for clients with:
Emotional and behavioural disorders, such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety
Heart and lung related disorders including heart attacks and asthma
Neurological issues, such as stroke and loss of senses (including speech)
Loss of all or part of hearing and/or eyesight, such as cataracts
What are my entitlements?
Our legal teams understand the different military compensation and rehabilitation schemes. However, the scheme you are covered by will largely depend on the dates and places of your service. You and your family may be eligible for benefits, including:
- Medical treatment
- Return to work support
- Incapacity payments if you are unable to work
- Lump sum compensation to cover permanent injuries
- Permanent impairment payments
If you’re a dependent of an ADF member who has passed away because of their service-related condition, you may be eligible for compensation. Dependents can include spouses, children, partners, and relatives.
Why do I need a military compensation lawyer?
When lodging a military compensation claim, your claim will be overseen by the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission (MRCC). It’s important to remember that as an independent legal body, the MRCC and their legal teams’ interests may not align with your own. Consequently, the MRCC may only offer you the bare minimum.
By contacting an experienced military compensation lawyer, you can ensure all your rights are protected and you receive your full compensation. Additionally, a dedicated legal team can help organise medical assessments, lodge paperwork, and challenge decisions from insurers or the MRCC.
It's especially important to seek legal representation in the following circumstances:
- If you have been, or will be, medically discharged from the ADF.
- If your claim has taken more than 3 months to be determined or reconsidered.
- If your claim has been rejected or you have been told you have no entitlements.
How we can help
Unlike RSLs, we’re qualified to run matters in the Federal and High Courts, ensuring you have the representation you need at every level.
Additionally, we’ve advised the Government on proposed legislative changes, appeared before Senate inquiries, and served on key committees shaping the future of veterans’ support.
How to make a DVA claim
Claiming military compensation can be complicated, but we can help you every step of the way. We recommend lodging your claim and contacting our team as soon as possible to give you the best possible chance of maximising your compensation and benefits.
We're here to help. Make an enquiry now.
If you have a question, want some more information or would just like to speak to someone, make an enquiry now and our Military Compensation team will be in touch with you as soon as possible.
We are the original No Win, No Fee* Military compensation lawyers
This means that if you don’t win, you don’t pay the fees for the work we do on your case.
What if my military compensation claim was denied?
The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) receives thousands of claims each month, with a rejection rate of around 16%. Even if your claim is denied, you still have options through a range of appeals with the Veterans’ Review Board (VRB) and the Administrative Review Tribunal.
If your claim has been rejected, or if you’re considering making a claim, we strongly recommend reaching out to our experienced Military Compensation team as soon as possible as your legal rights may be subject to strict time limits.
Likewise, our legal team can represent your best interests during the appeals process and guide you through your claims journey for the best chance of success.
Meet the team
Our team has intimate experience in military compensation law, having helped thousands of injured serving and ex-serving members with their DVA claims.
Superannuation and Disability Insurance claims
If you are no longer performing your normal work duties because of your injury, you may be entitled to a disability benefit through your superannuation fund. We can organise an obligation-free assessment to see if you’re eligible.
