You’ve likely heard talk about the biggest changes to veteran legislation in decades. For years, the DVA system has been a tangled web of different laws, making it complex and confusing to navigate.
That’s all about to change with the introduction of the new VETS Act. This article breaks down exactly what is happening, when it's happening, and what it means for you.
What is actually changing?
For generations, veterans have dealt with three different and often overlapping acts: the VEA, the DRCA, and the MRCA.
The new legislation simplifies this by closing the old acts to new claims and moving everyone under a single, improved version of the MRCA.
This change will take full effect from 1 July 2026. The goal is to make the system fairer, more consistent, and much easier to understand.
Will I lose my current benefits?
Let’s get straight to the most important question: No.
Anyone already receiving a pension or benefit under one of the old acts will continue to receive it. Your existing entitlements are protected by law. The government has been very clear that no veteran will be worse off due to these changes.
How future Claims will work
After 1 July 2026, the process for lodging new claims will be streamlined. Here’s how it will affect you:
- If you are already under MRCA: The process will feel very familiar, with some positive improvements to benefits.
- If you are under VEA or DRCA: You will keep all your existing benefits. Any new claims you make after the transition date will be managed under the single, improved system.
- For older service: You can still make claims for conditions relating to service that occurred under the old acts, even after the cut-off date.
The goal of this new legislation isn't to take anything away. It's to create a clearer, fairer path to support for all veterans.
The main benefits of a simpler system
While the main goal is simplicity, the new act also creates fairer and more consistent outcomes. The key benefits include:
- Fairer Access: For the first time, some veterans (especially those under DRCA) will have a pathway to access benefits like the SRDP and the Gold Card.
- Consistency: Support will be based on need, not on which piece of old legislation you happen to fall under.
- Simplicity: The next generation of veterans will face a much less confusing system.
What you should do before 2026
You do not need to panic. However, being strategic is always a good idea. Here are two things to consider:
- Lodge Your Known Claims: If you have known conditions that you have not yet claimed, it is wise to get them assessed and lodged under the current rules before the 2026 transition. This ensures your conditions are on the record.
- Get Expert Guidance: Understanding how the old rules and new system will interact with your specific situation is key. An expert can help you build a strategy to ensure you and your family are fully supported through this transition.
These changes are a positive step towards a better DVA system. With the right planning, you can navigate this transition with confidence, knowing your entitlements are secure.
