DVA claims FAQ

The clinic, not an advocacy mill

Are you DVA advocates or a law firm?

Neither. We are a medical practice. We write the medical evidence a claim is decided on — diagnosis, Statement of Principles factors, impairment ratings. An advocate lodges and argues the claim, and a free accredited one can do that at no cost. How the two differ.

Do you charge a percentage of a DVA payout?

No, never. Every fee is fixed and quoted before the work starts. Nothing is deducted from your compensation and nothing is invoiced after a determination. All fees.

Can I still lodge the claim myself, or use an ESO?

Yes, and most veterans should. Our documents are built to be handed to whoever lodges the claim, including you.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can contact us directly.

Records, diagnosis and SoPs

What does a chart review actually add?

It finds conditions that are documented but unclaimed. Most veterans claim what they remember; the record usually holds considerably more. What a chart review covers.

Can I claim while I am still serving?

Yes. Serving members can lodge claims, and a separation health examination before discharge is the single most useful thing you can do for a future claim.

Do I need a specialist diagnosis, or will a GP do?

It depends on the condition. For many, DVA requires a specialist diagnosis with test or imaging reports. The DVA Diagnosis Form (D9287) carries a declaration about exactly that.

What is a Statement of Principles, in clinic language?

A legislative list of the factors that can connect a condition to service. DVA can only accept a claim if at least one factor is met and connected to your service. Every SoP, every factor.

Can a condition that started before I enlisted still be accepted?

Yes — through aggravation or worsening by service, which is a separate pathway to causation.

Impairment points, GARP M and money

What is the difference between impairment and incapacity?

Impairment is a permanent loss of function, rated in points under the GARP. Incapacity is loss of earning capacity. They are assessed separately and paid separately.

How do points become money?

Points are combined on a whole-person scale, adjusted for age and lifestyle effects, then converted using the compensation tables. How the scale works, or try the points calculator.

What does a permanent impairment assessment cost?

$1,500 + GST, fixed. What it involves.

If a claim is refused

Can a refused claim be appealed?

Yes, and review by the Veterans' Review Board is free. Time limits apply and one of them costs veterans money — the appeal guide sets them out.

Should I appeal, or lodge again?

Appeal when the decision misread evidence already on the file. Lodge again when the evidence never existed.

Still have a question?

Call 0429 146 039 or email reception@vhc.org.au — Veterans Health Centre, Ipswich.