Personal Law: Veterans - Guides
Veterans
4. How to Make a Claim
Firm / Chambers:
Last updated: 27 Aug 2015
- In order to make a claim under either the Comcare or Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Scheme you must first complete the appropriate claim form.
- Claim forms are available from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) website at http://www.dva.gov.au/dvaforms as well as from all DVA offices.
- You must lodge your completed claim form and all supporting documentation at your nearest DVA office.
- You will be required to provide a range of documentation to support your claim. This documentation may include copies of:
- any relevant service medical records;
- any injury and witness reports;
- any other medical reports including reports from your current doctor;
- a statement that describes why you think the injury or disease relates to your ADF service;
- sufficient proof of your identity;
- your tax file number (TFN); and
- any other information or documentation that may help to establish your claim.
- If you have been unsuccessful in obtaining the information and documents requested on the claim form DVA staff or your lawyer will be able to help you. Often this will require liaison with various doctors and medical professionals with whom you have been dealing in relation to your injury or disease. A lawyer can assist you to get all of the documents together and advise you on the strength of your claim to any entitlements.
- If you believe that you are suffering from an injury or illness which is related to your defence service you should submit your claim as soon as possible. A failure to comply with legal timelines may result in your claim being denied.
- Even where no formal time limit applies it is generally more difficult to lodge a claim and obtain the relevant documentation and information as time goes on. Medical and other evidence which would normally be used to establish your claim may not be as readily available in later years. Submitting your claim as soon as possible will protect your interests.
- Once your claim is prepared for lodgement you should ensure you make a copy of your claim form and all supporting documentation for your personal records.
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