Initial Liability Claims
Initial Liability is the first step in the DVA compensation process. It determines whether the Commonwealth accepts that an injury or illness is related to your ADF service. Once liability is accepted, you can access relevant supports and compensation pathways.
What is Initial Liability?
Initial Liability establishes whether your condition is accepted under DVA legislation. In practical terms, it answers the core question: “Is this injury or illness connected to service?”
Depending on your service dates and circumstances, liability claims are generally made under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA) or the Defence-related Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (DRCA). The Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA) follows a different model for disability compensation and treatment.
Who Initial Liability is for
Current serving members who want to document conditions early
Veterans who have not yet had their conditions accepted
Anyone needing a clear starting point before Permanent Impairment or other compensation can be assessed
How Valour Supports Your Initial Liability Claim
Clarify the correct pathway and claim scope (what to claim now vs later)
Identify evidence gaps and what documents will matter most
Help you organise service records and medical evidence into a clear package
Assist with drafting supporting statements (where appropriate) with care, privacy, and accuracy
Guide lodgement steps and keep you clear on what happens next
The Valour Pathway
Foundation call: we listen to your situation and explain the Initial Liability process in plain language.
Evidence plan: we identify what you have, what you need, and what to prioritise.
Preparation: we organise documentation and help you present your case clearly.
Lodgement guidance: we support you through submission and follow-up steps.
Outcome planning: if accepted, we explain next entitlements and whether Permanent Impairment may be relevant; if not accepted, we explain your review options and what would strengthen a challenge.
