What is DVA? A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding the Department of Veterans’ Affairs

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) is the Australian government agency responsible for supporting current and former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), as well as their families. DVA provides financial assistance, healthcare, rehabilitation and compensation for service-related injuries and conditions.

For veterans navigating the DVA claims process, understanding what is DVA and what they do—and securing the compensation they are entitled to—can be overwhelming. This blog breaks down what their role is, the support they offer, and how to claim your entitlements.

What is DVA and What Do They Do?

The DVA supports veterans and their families by providing financial compensation, healthcare, and rehabilitation services for those impacted by their service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF). DVA administers claims under three key laws: 

• The Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA) for post-2004 service-related conditions
• The Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation (Defence-related Claims) Act 1988 (DRCA) for pre-2004 and non-operational injuries
• The Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA) for wartime and certain peacetime service. 

Beyond compensation, DVA offers pensions, mental health support, and rehabilitation programs and manages appeals through the Veterans’ Review Board (VRB).

Ways DVA Supports Veterans

Financial Compensation

DVA offers financial assistance to veterans whose service-related injuries or illnesses affect their ability to work or lead a normal life. This includes pensions, compensation, allowances, and incapacity payments.

Healthcare

DVA covers medical treatment for service-related conditions, ensuring you can prioritise recovery without financial stress. They assist with GP visits, specialist care, hospital care and more.

Rehabilitation

DVA’s rehabilitation programs focus on restoring independence and improving quality of life. Support includes physical rehabilitation, vocational rehab, and psychological support to manage stress and trauma.

Mental Health Care

Mental wellbeing is a priority. DVA offers tailored support for conditions like PTSD, anxiety, or depression. Support includes free counselling sessions with psychologists and social workers.

Others

More support is available through help returning to civilian life, commemoration and recognition, home care assistance, help with housing, and historical information.

How to Make a DVA Claim

The DVA claims process can be complex, but following the right steps can help veterans access their entitlements more efficiently.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Confirm that your service-related condition falls under MRCA, DRCA, or VEA.

Step 2: Gather Medical & Service Evidence
DVA requires medical reports, service records, and supporting documents to assess your claim.

Step 3: Lodge Your Claim
Submit your claim through MyService (DVA’s online portal) or with assistance from an advocate, such as KSC Claims.

Step 4: Review & Decision
DVA assesses the claim, which may take several months. If approved, payments or benefits will be processed.

How KSC Simplifies DVA Claims

As veterans ourselves, we’ve turned frustration into action. 

Here’s how we bridge the gap:

• Decoding Legislation – We translate MRCA, DRCA, and VEA requirements into plain language. No legal jargon—just clear steps.

• Evidence Support – We help gather and format medical reports, service records, and witness statements to meet DVA’s standards.

• Appeals Made Simple – If DVA rejects your claim, we handle VRB appeals with precision.

• Permanent Impairment Calculator – Our online tool here estimates potential entitlements, giving you clarity upfront.

Take Control of Your DVA Journey

Understanding what a DVA claim is is the first step. Taking action is the next. KSC is here to advocate for you—from lodging a new claim to appealing a decision or calculating permanent impairment. And we do so with respect, expertise, and zero upfront costs.

Ready to cut through the complexity? Book a free 30-minute consultation.