Yes. If you believe your DVA decision is incorrect, you may be able to request a review or lodge an appeal. The review pathway depends on the type of decision and the legislation that applies to your claim. Veteran Appeals Australia helps review your decision, identify potential grounds for appeal and prepare a strong, evidence-based case.

Many DVA decisions may be reviewed or appealed, including those relating to liability for an injury or disease, permanent impairment compensation, incapacity payments, rehabilitation, household or attendant care, service pensions, Special Rate Disability Pension and other reviewable entitlements. The available review pathway will depend on your individual circumstances.

The Veterans' Review Board (VRB) is an independent body that reviews certain DVA decisions. It provides an informal, veteran-friendly and non-adversarial review process where new evidence can be considered. The Board has the power to affirm, vary or substitute the original decision.

The Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) is an independent tribunal that conducts a fresh review of eligible DVA decisions. It can consider new evidence, obtain independent medical reports and replace the original DVA decision where appropriate. Matters that proceed to the ART are often more complex and require detailed preparation.

Yes. New evidence can often be provided during the appeal process. Depending on your circumstances, this may include specialist medical reports, vocational assessments, occupational therapy reports, witness statements, service records and other supporting documentation that strengthens your case.

Every appeal is different, but strong evidence is often the key to a successful outcome. Depending on your circumstances, supporting evidence may include independent specialist reports, psychiatric assessments, functional capacity evaluations, occupational therapy Every appeal is different, but strong evidence is often the key to a successful outcome. Depending on your circumstances, supporting evidence may include independent specialist reports, psychiatric assessments, functional capacity evaluations, occupational therapy reports, vocational assessments, service records, witness statements, family statements, employment history and DVA clinical records.

Time limits vary depending on the legislation and the type of decision you've received. Some appeals must be lodged within specific timeframes, although extensions may be available in certain circumstances. It is generally best to seek advice as soon as possible after receiving your decision.

Veteran Appeals Australia specialises in preparing evidence-based DVA appeals. We review your original decision, identify appealable issues, prepare detailed submissions, help coordinate supporting evidence and guide you through the review process with a clear strategy tailored to your circumstances.

While you can lodge an appeal yourself, preparing a strong appeal often involves more than completing forms. Identifying evidentiary gaps, obtaining the right medical and vocational evidence and preparing detailed submissions can make a significant difference to the strength of your case.

We'll discuss your circumstances, review your DVA decision and explain the review options available to you. If we believe we can assist, we'll outline the next steps and develop a strategy to help prepare the strongest possible appeal.