GARP Impairment Estimator
Impairment points from separate conditions are not added together — they are combined, so each additional condition contributes less than the one before it. This shows how that works, and why leaving conditions off a claim costs more than veterans expect.
Once you have a combined figure, the DVA payout calculator turns it into a weekly payment using the real GARP Chapter 23 factor tables.
Straight total: 0 points
Lost to combining: 0 points
Indicative only. GARP M combines impairment using the formula A + B(100 − A) ÷ 100 applied in descending order, then applies rules for related conditions in the same body system. A real assessment measures each condition against the correct table and accounts for those interactions.
Want this done properly, with your records?
This tool shows you the tables. The Permanent Impairment Estimate is the professional version: you complete structured questionnaires, a doctor works your answers and your medical records against the GARP criteria, and you receive a written report itemising the approximate impairment points by body region — in the structure of a DVA PI determination, with what you reported set against what the GARP requires for every rating. Paper-based, anywhere in Australia. $600 + GST physical · $600 + GST mental health.
Points, thresholds and what follows.
The scale
GARP M expresses whole person impairment from 0 to 100 points, where 0 is no or negligible impairment from accepted conditions and 100 corresponds to death.
The threshold
An initial permanent impairment payment under the MRCA generally requires at least 10 impairment points — or 5 points where the impairment relates to hearing loss, loss of a finger or toe, or loss of taste or smell.
The lifestyle rating
Separately from impairment points, the effect on your lifestyle is rated from 0 to 7. Both numbers together determine the compensation factor.
Dr Thomas Perkins
The expert in veterans’ medicolegal medicine — Expert DVA Doctor.
Dr Thomas Perkins is the founding doctor at the Veterans Health Centre in Ipswich, Queensland, and the leading expert in veterans’ medicolegal work in Australia. He has spent over 13 years working exclusively with current and former Australian Defence Force members — treating conditions, writing reports, and navigating the DVA system alongside them.
With 80,000+ DVA claims submitted and over 2,000 Permanent Impairment Assessments completed, Dr Perkins brings a depth of experience that simply cannot be replicated from a textbook. He understands the Statements of Principles, the GARP tables, the imaging that proves what a physical examination alone cannot — and the difference that a properly written report makes at every level, from initial liability through to the VRB.
Every chart review, every diagnostic assessment, and every impairment rating is personally overseen by Dr Perkins. If you’re looking for a doctor who knows veterans medicine inside and out, you’ve found the right clinic.
Contact us0429 146 039 reception@vhc.org.au
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