If DVA rejected your claim or assessed your entitlements lower than expected, you may have the right to challenge the decision. Strict time limits can apply, and the correct pathway depends on the type and date of the decision.
Our experienced team helps veterans understand what went wrong, strengthen the evidence and prepare their matter for the Veterans’ Review Board. If the matter needs to go further, we can represent you at the Administrative Review Tribunal.
Contact our team today or call 07 2112 4752.
The appeal pathway, step by step
For most eligible DVA compensation decisions, the review pathway begins at the Veterans’ Review Board. Earlier decisions and some decision types may follow a different process, which is why we first check your determination letter and confirm the correct pathway.
Veterans’ Review Board (VRB)
The first external review for most eligible DVA decisions. The VRB is independent, generally informal and has no application fee. We prepare your case, address claims gaps and help present the full picture.
Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)
If you disagree with a VRB decision, you may be able to apply to the ART. The process is more formal, and experienced legal representation can be particularly valuable.
Federal Court
In some cases, an ART decision may be appealed to the Federal Court on a question of law rather than the facts of your case.
You can challenge more than a rejected claim
You may also be able to challenge a decision affecting the amount, timing or type of compensation or support you receive.
Initial liability
A decision not to accept an injury, disease or death as service-related.
Permanent impairment
A decision about your impairment points, lifestyle rating or compensation payable.
Incapacity payments
Payments that were refused, reduced, suspended or ceased.
Date of effect
The date from which DVA applied an entitlement, which may affect any arrears payable.
Other entitlements
Certain decisions about disability compensation, Eligible Young Person Payments, treatment, rehabilitation and related support may also be reviewed.
Common questions about DVA appeals
The rules changed in 2025, here is what is different
From 21 April 2025, a single review pathway began applying to most eligible DVA compensation decisions across the three Acts. These matters generally go to the Veterans’ Review Board first, including eligible DRCA decisions. In October 2024, the Administrative Appeals Tribunal was replaced by the Administrative Review Tribunal.
Deadlines matter. Time limits depend on the decision, the legislation and when the decision was made. Missing a deadline can significantly limit your options. Your determination letter should explain your review rights and deadline, and we will confirm them with you.