Start Your DVA Claim – A Practical Guide for Veterans

A Practical Toolkit for Veterans

Leaving Defence doesn’t come with a clear explanation of how DVA claims actually work.
Many veterans delay claims, rely on conflicting advice, or spend thousands of dollars simply trying to understand the process.

Start Your DVA Claim is designed to change that.

The information is there — this toolkit simply puts it together in one clear, practical place.

This toolkit brings together existing DVA information in plain English and sets out a clear, step-by-step pathway from “Where do I start?” to “My claim is ready to submit.”

What this toolkit helps you do

• Understand what conditions you can (and can’t) claim
• Identify the correct legislation and Statements of Principles (SOPs)
• Understand the standard of proof that applies to your service
• Gather the right medical and service evidence
• Write a clear contention that links diagnosis, service, and SOP factors
• Avoid common mistakes that delay claims
• Submit your claim with confidence through MyService

What’s included

• Templates
• Resource links
• Clear explanations of MRCA, DRCA and VEA (including 1 July 2026 changes)
• Step-by-step guidance on SOPs and standards of proof
• Guidance on claimant reports and exposure spreadsheets
• DVA diagnosis form
• Contention examples
  

Who this is for

• Veterans lodging their own DVA claims
• Serving members preparing to transition
• Veterans who want to understand the process before seeking advocacy support
• Anyone who wants clarity before submitting a claim

Important to know

This toolkit is for guidance only and does not constitute legal or advocacy advice.
It is designed to empower veterans to submit their own claims if they choose.

If you are unsure, feel overwhelmed, or your circumstances are complex, you are encouraged to seek support from a qualified advocate, legal professional, or medical practitioner at any stage.