CSC Reclassification: Moving from Class B to Class A When Your Condition Worsens

Who can be reclassified?

• MilitarySuper – you or CSC can start a review up to age 65; you can't be downgraded after 55.
• ADF Cover – reviews up to 65, including a mandatory review 12–36 months after transition.
• DFRDB – no age limit.
• Initial Class C – never reviewable.

The legal provisions are Rule 23 of the MilitarySuper Trust Deed, section 34 of the DFRDB Act and section 18 of the ADF Cover Act.

What triggers a change?

• Your conditions improving or worsening.
• Returning to work in a different kind of role.
• New skills or study that open up different work.

A review follows a similar process to your first classification.

How to win a Class B to Class A upgrade

You need to show your incapacity for civil employment is now 60% or more. Strong evidence includes:

• Treating specialist reports documenting deterioration with functional limits.
• Work history since discharge – jobs lost, reduced hours, failed return-to-work attempts.
• A clear link to your retiring impairments – an unrelated new condition may not help.
• A demand-by-demand analysis of the jobs named in your last decision.

When does an upgrade start?

A reclassification is generally effective from a date tied to the review. An earlier date is possible for a move to Class A (or Class C to B) where CSC accepts special circumstances. If your decline began well before you applied, argue this with evidence.

Protect yourself if CSC reviews you

• Answer fully and honestly – describe your worst days, not just your good ones.
• Provide current medical evidence.
• If working, explain accommodations, reduced hours and time off.
• A review decision can itself be reconsidered within 30 days – see CSC reconsideration.

Frequently asked questions

Can I ask CSC to move me from Class B to Class A?

Yes, if your retiring conditions have worsened and you are within the age limits for your scheme.

Can CSC lower my class?

Yes. A drop to Class C stops the pension immediately, though MilitarySuper classes can't be lowered after 55.

Can a reclassification be backdated?

Sometimes, where special circumstances justify an earlier date.

Get evidence for your reclassification

VHC prepares deterioration evidence anchored to CSC's test. Call 0429 146 039 or email reception@vhc.org.au.

General information only; not legal or financial advice. Effective-date rules differ by scheme.