For many Australians who have served in the Defence Force, the journey after service can bring unique challenges. To recognise this, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) provides a wide range of benefits and services. But understanding how to access these supports through the DVA claims system can feel overwhelming.
This guide explains the essentials, what DVA is, how to submit a claim, the forms you’ll need, how long the process takes, and the types of support available. At CannaAid Medical, we believe in empowering veterans with knowledge so they can make informed choices about their health and wellbeing. As a healthcare consultation clinic in Australia, we provide telehealth and natural care options that complement traditional support systems and may be relevant to veterans eligible for DVA support.
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) is an Australian Government department dedicated to supporting current and former serving members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), along with their families. Its role is broad: it covers financial support, healthcare, counselling, rehabilitation, and assistance with day-to-day living.
Put simply, the DVA exists to ensure that those who have served the country receive recognition and access to the services they need. This includes pathways for claims that help veterans access medical, lifestyle, and wellbeing support.
Veterans can apply for different types of claims depending on their situation. While the full DVA claim list is comprehensive, the main categories include:
Each type of claim aims to make everyday life easier, supporting both independence and overall quality of life.
Alongside claims, DVA provides healthcare access through different cards, each granting varying levels of entitlements:
These cards form a central part of the DVA’s healthcare framework, ensuring veterans can access the right support depending on their circumstances.
The first step in making a claim is completing the DVA claim form. This can be done online through the MyService portal or by using a paper form submitted directly to DVA.
Information you’ll usually need to provide includes:
A common mistake is not providing enough supporting documentation, which can delay assessments. Preparing your paperwork carefully and seeking guidance before submission can make the process smoother.
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs provides different claim forms depending on the kind of support you’re seeking. Choosing the right one is important to avoid delays. Here are some of the most commonly used forms:
| Form Number | Purpose | Who Should Use It |
| D2020 – Initial Liability Claim | First-time claim for a service-related condition or injury. | Veterans or serving members making their first DVA claim. |
| D2582 – Permanent Impairment Claim | Compensation for permanent impairment caused by a service-related condition. | Veterans with an already accepted condition are now seeking compensation. |
| D0510 – Incapacity Payments Claim | Income support if unable to work (or capacity reduced) due to service-related conditions. | Veterans are temporarily or permanently unable to work at full capacity. |
| D9313 – Household Services Claim | Help with domestic tasks like cleaning, gardening, or home maintenance. | Veterans who require household support linked to their service. |
| D13272 – Attendant Care Services Claim | Personal care assistance (e.g., showering, mobility support). | Veterans who need daily living assistance beyond household tasks. |
| D9310 – Funeral Benefit Claim | Financial support for funeral costs. | Families of deceased veterans where DVA covers part or all costs. |
| D0900 – Rehabilitation Program Application | Access to a tailored rehabilitation plan (vocational, medical, psychosocial). | Veterans seeking rehabilitation and return-to-work or study pathways. |
While paper forms are still available, most claims can be submitted more efficiently through the MyService online portal, where you can also track progress in real time.
The DVA claim process generally follows a step-by-step structure:
1. Preparation – Gather documents, including proof of service and supporting evidence.
2. Submission – Lodge your claim through MyService or by post.
3. Assessment – DVA reviews the claim, may request further information, and consults relevant evidence.
4. Decision – Applicants are informed whether their claim is accepted, partially accepted, or declined.
5. Next steps – If approved, veterans gain access to support; if declined, appeal and review pathways are available.
The process is designed to be transparent, though the level of detail needed means that claims can take time to finalise.
The DVA claim timeframe varies depending on the type of claim. On average:
According to the DVA’s annual report (2023–24), around 99,000 claims were processed that year, with efforts underway to reduce waiting times by improving digital services and assessment models.
While waiting can be challenging, ensuring your claim is complete and accurate from the beginning can help minimise delays.
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) provides access to a range of health services for eligible veterans. In some cases, this can include natural or plant-based therapies where they are considered appropriate by a treating doctor.
According to the DVA’s official guidance on medicinal cannabis, support may be available when:
This means that DVA does not automatically fund all forms of natural medicine but may provide coverage when it is clinically justified and meets existing regulatory standards.
At CannaAid Medical, our role is to provide consultation and guidance within these frameworks, supporting veterans to understand their healthcare options. We do not make claims about outcomes but ensure our services are consistent with TGA and DVA requirements.
Once approved, a DVA claim can open doors to a wide range of support services, such as:
For veterans interested in holistic care, DVA also recognises some alternative and complementary supports. You can explore more about this in our related article: Natural Alternative Medicine & DVA: A Guide for Eligible Australians.
At CannaAid Medical, we are committed to providing healthcare consultations that respect personal choice and promote wellbeing. Our services include:
We work in line with TGA guidelines, ensuring our consultations are safe, compliant, and centred around your needs. For veterans exploring natural options alongside traditional supports, we provide a professional and trusted pathway.
Navigating DVA claims doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With the right knowledge and preparation, veterans can access the support they deserve, from healthcare and wellbeing programs to household assistance and more.
At CannaAid Medical, we are here to support veterans through telehealth consultations and natural care options, providing complementary services that respect choice and wellbeing.
Navigating DVA services can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Schedule a consultation with CannaAid Medical to discuss your situation and receive guidance that aligns with current regulations.
Eligibility usually depends on your service history and whether your claim relates to that service. Checking directly with DVA or using MyService is the best first step.
Eligibility usually depends on your service history and whether your claim relates to that service. Checking directly with DVA or using MyService is the best first step.
Yes, most claims can be lodged online through the MyService portal, which also allows you to track progress.
Typically, you’ll need proof of service, medical evidence (if relevant), and personal information to complete the form.
If declined, you can request a review or appeal. Many veterans also seek advice from advocacy groups or ex-service organisations.
Support is available through DVA directly, advocacy services, or trusted healthcare providers like CannaAid Medical who can guide you with health-related consultations.
Disclaimer:This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Veterans should seek personalised guidance from a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about their health. Any references to natural or complementary therapies, including medicinal cannabis, are presented in line with Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) and Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulatory frameworks and should not be interpreted as therapeutic claims.