Infographic: How to make a DVA claim

DVA claims can be stressful, but RSL LifeCare Veteran Services is here to help – here are your top tips for making a claim.

We spoke with Angus Cameron, Head of Claims and Advocacy at RSL LifeCare Veteran Services, about how veterans and their families should approach making a DVA claim – here’s a guide to the process.

 

How to make a DVA claim, What can a DVA claim cover?: Treatment for illness or injury, Physical rehabilitation Home living assistance, Compensation for loss of income

Tips for the claims process. 1 Know why you’re making a claim For example, are you seeking to: Access free mental health treatment? Claim for permanent impairment? Review a rejected claim?

2 Show a link to service. “It's not enough to have developed an injury or illness during service – we must demonstrate how your service caused it.” – Angus Cameron, RSL LifeCare Veteran Services

3 Talk to an advisor. A trained RSL LifeCare Claims Advisor will simplify the entire process for you, create a plan tailored to your situation and guide you through the paperwork.

4 Be open with your Claims Advisor. Your Claims Advisor provides independent advice to help you achieve your goal – they’re on your side from start to finish.

5 Avoid pitfalls. Don’t write off certain conditions as ‘not important’ – consider everything. If you’re unsure, ask – your Claims Advisor is there to help you. Cover all your bases by following the advice of your Claims Advisor.

How RSL LifeCare Veteran Services can help. Clear communication, “RSL LifeCare Veteran Services facilitates a link between the DVA and veterans.”, Independent advice, RSL LifeCare Veteran Services removes the stress of making a claim with simple, accessible language.

One-on-one appointments. Meet a Claims Advisor in-person at the following locations: ANZAC House (RSL NSW HQ), Holsworthy Barracks, HMAS Kuttabul, RAAF Base Richmond, Lone Pine Barracks Singleton, RAAF Base Williamtown, Newcastle CBD, Riverina Veteran Wellbeing Centre, Nowra Veteran Wellbeing Centre. You can also make a phone or video call from anywhere in the state, and receive the same professional service, “We remove the geographical boundaries to assist people who don't have access to Claims Advisors locally.”

Assistance with appeals. If you don’t get the outcome you want, the advocacy team outlines your options for what to do next. The RSL LifeCare Veteran Services team demystifies the claims process, providing veterans with simple, easy-to-understand guidance at every stage – so veterans and their families can access the free assistance they seek, sooner.

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