Retrospective Medical Discharge (A-RETRO) Explained

The legal basis by scheme

• MilitarySuper – Rule 30 of the Trust Deed.
• ADF Cover – section 31A of the ADF Cover Act 2015.
• DFRDB – section 37 of the DFRDB Act 1973. The relevant Service Chief decides first, so DFRDB applications start with Defence, not CSC.

The test

CSC must be satisfied that grounds existed on which you could have been retired on invalidity grounds at the time you left. Three points make this more accessible than many veterans think:

1. Your conditions don't need to be service-related. Causation is a DVA test, not a CSC one.
2. How you left doesn't bar you. A voluntary discharge is not fatal.
3. A later diagnosis can count if the evidence shows the condition was present and restricting you at transition.

Eligibility traps

• MilitarySuper members need a preserved employer benefit. Confirm with CSC on 1300 006 727.
• One application per period of service.
• Not if you were already medically transitioned and classified for that period.
• Statutory exclusions can apply, e.g. early discharge due to a pre-existing condition not aggravated by service.

Two decisions, not one

1. Rule 30 – did grounds exist to retire you on invalidity grounds?
2. Rule 22 – if so, are you Class A, B or C?

Approval at step one doesn't guarantee a pension: Class C pays nothing. See CSC Class A, B and C explained.

How to apply

Lodge the A-RETRO form with CSC, including:

• medical reports for each condition;
• your CV and full work and qualifications history;
• evidence from employers where your conditions affected work;
• ID and a TFN declaration.

CSC will usually obtain your Defence medical file and DVA file.

What evidence carries weight?

CSC wants evidence showing your situation at or around the time you left. The most important document is usually a doctor's letter built from a full chart review – see the Rule 30 letter of support.

How long does it take?

CSC reports a significant increase in applications and processing delays. Make sure your file is complete from day one.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a medical discharge after leaving the ADF?

Yes. Retrospective invalidity lets CSC treat you as medically retired if grounds existed when you left.

Do my conditions have to be caused by service?

No. CSC does not require service causation.

I'm DFRDB – where do I apply?

DFRDB retrospective applications start with Defence under section 37.

Start with an honest assessment

VHC's Rule 30 service is a Chart Review and Letter of Support, $600 + GST per stage. Call 0429 146 039 or visit CSC retrospective discharge.

General information only; not legal, financial or tax advice. Forms and pathways change.