DVA Initial Liability, Without The Stress
Initial Liability
If you’re living with a condition you believe is linked to your Defence service, the first step is getting it formally recognised by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). This is known as initial liability, and it’s the foundation of any compensation or treatment support you may be entitled to.
At VetComp, we understand that proving this connection isn’t always easy. Many veterans don’t report symptoms during their service, or are told it’s just ‘part of the job’. But that doesn’t make your experience any less real.
We’re here to help you get the support you deserve, no matter how long it’s been since you served.
No obligation. No risk. Talk to a DVA claims expert.
Why does initial liability matter?
Initial liability is the first step in having your condition formally recognised by the DVA. Without this acceptance, DVA will not record your condition as linked to your service. This means you cannot access funded medical treatment, rehabilitation programs or other forms of ongoing care.
It also determines your eligibility for financial support. Without acceptance, you may miss out on incapacity payments or permanent impairment lump sum compensation, even if your condition is having a significant impact on your daily life or ability to work.
Establishing initial liability is when DVA formally recognises that your service has caused or contributed to your conditions. It is the gateway to the care, benefits and long-term assistance you may be entitled to as a veteran, helping you access the support you need now and into the future.
Results focused, purpose driven
At VetComp, we specialise in helping veterans challenge denied initial liability decisions and present stronger, more structured evidence the second time around.
Why you shouldn't wait to start your initial liability claim
Delaying your initial liability claim can quickly reduce your chances of approval with DVA. The longer you wait, the harder it can be to link your condition to your service.
Some of the risks of waiting include:
- Medical evidence becoming harder to gather or verify
- Service records being incomplete or missing
- Important details about your service exposure being forgotten
- Missing legislative timeframes for certain conditions to be recognised under the Statement of Principles (SoP)
Most importantly, delaying your claim can mean your condition worsens without the support you need. Without funded access to treatment, rehabilitation and other services during the wait, symptoms often go unmanaged, increasing the risk of long-term effects on your health and quality of life.
Lodging your claim early gives you the strongest chance of securing your DVA entitlements. Whether you’re still serving or have been discharged for decades, VetComp is here to help you access treatment and support without delay.
No obligation. No risk. Talk to a DVA claims expert.
Requirements for initial liability to be accepted
Unfortunately, the fact that your condition may have been solely caused by your ADF service is not enough for the DVA to accept it. This is where many veterans come undone and are often left feeling frustrated or defeated.
The DVA operates under strict legislative requirements, and unless certain criteria are met, your initial liability claim will not be approved. To have your condition accepted as service-related, you must meet all three of the following requirements.
DVA Statement of Principles (SoP) factor
The Statements of Principles (SoPs) are legally binding documents issued by the Repatriation Medical Authority (RMA).
Each SoP outlines the medical and scientific factors that must be present for a condition to be considered related to military service. You must meet at least one of these factors, such as exposure to trauma, physical strain, or environmental hazards and show that it occurred during your service.
For those unfamiliar with these principles, they can be hard to interpret, which is why working with an advocate can make the process far less stressful.
In some instances, supporting evidence such as sentinel reports, witness statements, claimant reports, and statutory declarations may be required. These are considered on a case-by-case basis by DVA and often require the claim to be assessed by the Special Claims Team (SCT). Where possible, it is generally best practice to avoid this as this can result in further delays, additional scrutiny and unnecessary stress.
Clinical diagnosis
A clinical diagnosis is a formal medical identification of your condition, made by a qualified health professional such as a GP, psychologist, psychiatrist, or specialist. DVA requires that this diagnosis be clear, current, and made using appropriate clinical standards, such as the DSM-5 for mental health conditions or imaging/laboratory confirmation for physical injuries.
In some instances, supporting evidence such as sentinel reports, witness statements, claimant reports, and statutory declarations may be required. These are considered on a case-by-case basis by DVA and often require the claim to be assessed by the Special Claims Team (SCT). Where possible, it is generally best practice to avoid this as this can result in further delays, additional scrutiny and unnecessary stress.
Link to service
You must demonstrate that your condition was caused, or significantly contributed to, by your ADF service. This means something about your role, duties, environment, exposures, or events during service must have directly led to the condition.
DVA will not accept claims based solely on the presence of a condition; they need evidence that it is linked to military service, not civilian life, pre-existing factors, or post-service events.
If even one of these three criteria is not satisfied, your claim will likely be rejected. That’s why building a strong, well-supported submission is essential, and where guided advocacy can make all the difference.
There's only 4 easy steps
Appealing rejected initial liability claims
Being told that your condition is not accepted by DVA can be frustrating, especially when you know it’s connected to your service. The good news is: you have the right to appeal. A rejection is not the end of the road.
At VetComp, we don’t simply resubmit the same material and hope for a different outcome. Instead, we take a strategic and evidence-based approach. This includes reviewing your previous application and the decision notice in detail to understand why the claim was rejected.
We look for any gaps or weaknesses in your evidence, whether medical, diagnostic or service-related, and work with trusted professionals to get updated or more targeted reports. We’ll also help fine-tune your personal statement so it’s accurate, relevant and aligns with the right SoP. The goal is to create a clear, well-structured submission that gives your reconsideration or VRB appeal the strongest chance of success.
If appeals and reconsiderations are unsuccessful, there may be alternative pathways available to help have your condition accepted or covered, even if the initial claim was unsuccessful. Our team will work with you to explore every available option based on your circumstances.
At VetComp, we specialise in helping veterans challenge denied initial liability decisions and present stronger, more structured evidence the second time around.
Why Aussie veterans choose VetComp
No win, no fee
If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t pay us anything. We believe veterans deserve fair representation without the risk of upfront costs or hidden fees.
Confidence & clarity
We make sure you know exactly what the DVA has asked for before any assessments take place. You’ll understand the process, what’s expected, and how we’ll help you meet those requirements so there are no surprises along the way.
24/7 claims support
We treat your claim as if it were our own, doing everything possible to secure your compensation. Our team monitors your progress around the clock and keeps you informed so you are never left wondering what’s happening.
Hands-on approach
From submitting your claims to connecting you with veteran-friendly healthcare providers, we handle everything. Your only responsibility is to attend your medical appointments.
Convenient & easy
We understand the demands of everyday life. Wherever possible, we arrange appointments via telehealth, offering flexibility and reducing the need for travel.
Professional support from industry leaders
We connect you with medical providers who understand veteran health and know exactly what the DVA needs to see. This means your evidence is accurate, relevant and presented in the strongest way possible.
No obligation. No risk. Talk to a DVA claims expert.
We've been in your shoes
An experienced team of advocates and veteran experts committed to guiding you toward the support and compensation you truly deserve.
Zach Plath
Zach Plath
Zach Plath, boasting a proud family history of ADF service and as a former member of the Royal Australian Infantry, Zach has dedicated his life to supporting the veteran community. After his military career was unexpectedly cut short by injury, his passion for advocating for fellow Veterans only grew stronger.
Frustrated by the countless obstacles he encountered in navigating the DVA claims process and the lack of adequate support, Zach teamed up with his long-time mate and fellow soldier Tyson Head to establish VetComp.
Zach has supported more than 600+ ADF Veterans with their DVA claims and brings a refreshing tone to the Advocacy space as he understands the challenges many modern day veterans face. He is known for his ‘no-nonsense attitude’ making sure the job gets done, cutting through red tape and ensuring that veterans get the support they deserve without unnecessary delays.
Recognised for his professionalism and unyielding advocacy, Zach is dedicated to transforming the veteran support landscape. He is relentless in his pursuit of improving the system—working not just to resolve individual claims, but to make the process smoother and more effective for every veteran in the future. His track record of success speaks for itself, making him a go-to expert in Veteran advocacy
Zach aims to lead the advocacy space by establishing a regulated service that not only provides expert guidance and support but also restores hope and creates new opportunities for Veterans—opportunities that were once unimaginable. Through this, he strives to set the standard for DVA Advocacy, ensuring all Veterans receive the care and respect they deserve.
When he’s not with the Vetcomp team, Zach spends his time riding motorbikes, at the gym and volunteering at the RSPCA.
Zach Plath
Tyson Head
Tyson Head
Tyson comes from a family with a strong history of ADF service. He served for over five years as an Infantry Soldier, until service-related injuries cut his career short. Facing the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, Tyson pursued a university degree, but soon realised his true passion was in supporting veterans. Drawing from his personal experience with the DVA claims process, he developed a deep understanding of the system’s complexities and the hurdles veterans face.
Tyson’s journey ultimately led him to VetComp, where he works alongside a dedicated team united by the common goal of providing expert, streamlined assistance with DVA claims. His unwavering commitment to veterans has earned him a reputation for working closely with DVA delegates to ensure that all procedures are followed and veterans’ needs are fully addressed. Tyson’s efforts have even led to overturned decisions, with claims accepted and additional compensation awarded to veterans who rightfully deserve it. To date, Tyson has assisted over 1000 veterans and their families, offering essential guidance throughout the often-complex DVA claims process.
Looking ahead, Tyson is excited about the future of DVA claims, confident that VetComp is not just adapting to the changes in the system but actively shaping them. With the DVA system undergoing ongoing reforms, Tyson sees significant opportunities to enhance how veterans receive the support they deserve. VetComp is at the forefront of these changes, developing streamlined systems and processes that aim to make the claims journey smoother and more transparent for veterans.
When he’s not advocating for veterans, Tyson enjoys spending time with his family and his loyal Groodle, Obi.
Tyson Head
Tom MacDonald
Tom MacDonald
Tom’s journey began at a Veteran health clinic, where he spent over three years assisting veterans by reviewing their medical files and identifying potential claims. Working alongside doctors and specialists, he gained invaluable insight into the intricate requirements for DVA ILC and PI paperwork.
Tom realised that submitting claims for veterans was just the beginning. He quickly identified that many veterans get lost along the journey, often feeling unsupported once their claims are submitted.
Tom joined that team at VetComp in 2024 because he wanted to make a real difference in the lives of veterans. With his deep understanding of the DVA system and medical reporting requirements, he’s able to navigate the complexities of claims and ensure veterans receive the compensation they rightfully deserve.
Tom’s unwavering commitment to veterans is evident in his results-driven approach. He has an exceptional ability to break down complex information into clear, actionable steps, empowering veterans with the knowledge they need to navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
Tom’s dedication goes beyond simply navigating the claims process—he is committed to walking alongside veterans every step of the way. He understands that a claim is more than just paperwork; it’s a lifeline for veterans who have sacrificed so much. By providing continuous support and clear communication, Tom ensures that no veteran is left in the dark or abandoned during their journey.
The veterans Tom has assisted throughout the claims process are consistently grateful and often pleasantly surprised by the positive outcomes. As one of our busiest advocates, Tom frequently goes above and beyond, working late hours to ensure each claim is handled with the utmost care. His dedication has earned him a loyal following, with many veterans referring to their friends based on the exceptional service and results they’ve experienced under his guidance.When Tom’s not working overtime at the office, you can find Tom taking his daughter and his beloved border-collie out on beach trips.
Tom MacDonald
Hope Irons
Hope Irons
Hope is an essential part of the VetComp team, playing a pivotal role in keeping our administrative engine running smoothly and efficiently. With a natural talent for organisation, an eagle eye for detail, and a calm, can-do attitude, Hope ensures that the right information gets to the right place—fast and flawlessly.
From coordinating documentation and streamlining internal processes to managing case updates and handling sensitive communications, Hope is the quiet force working tirelessly behind the scenes. Her work may not always be front-facing, but the impact is undeniable: thanks to her, our team stays on track, and our veterans receive timely, consistent support.
Hope thrives in fast-paced environments where multitasking and precision are key. Whether she’s juggling competing deadlines or problem-solving on the fly, she does it all with focus, grace, and a results-driven mindset. She takes great pride in delivering outcomes that matter—because she knows, at the end of every process, there’s a veteran relying on us.
What sets Hope apart is her deep empathy and personal connection to the veteran community. With her partner currently serving in the ADF, she understands the unique challenges veterans face—both in uniform and beyond. That perspective adds an extra layer of meaning to her work and fuels her dedication to delivering excellence in everything she does.
Beyond her role at VetComp, Hope’s primary hobbies are reading and running, so she’s either curled up inside with her nose in a good book or enjoying the outdoors and training for her next race. Hope used to live in South-East Asia for a number of years growing up, and considers travel — both international and domestic — to be a passion. (This meant that when army life came at her because of her partner, she didn’t blink twice at the fact that that would mean moving every two years!). Additionally, Hope is also a qualified dance teacher, having grown up doing musical theatre and various styles of dance.
Hope Irons
Ashleigh Milne
Ashleigh Milne
Ashleigh (“Ash”) Milne is one of our dedicated veteran advocates at VetComp, responsible for managing DVA claims from start to finish with precision, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to outcomes. Armed with a double degree in Law and Psychology, Ash brings a unique and highly effective blend of legal expertise and psychological insight to her work.
Before joining VetComp, Ash spent 8 years working in the civilian compensation space through WorkCover, where she built a deep understanding of complex claims and system navigation. Her transition to veteran advocacy was driven not just by experience, but by purpose—her proud family lineage of military service gave her a strong connection to the veteran community and a desire to give back meaningfully.
Ash’s role is about more than just paperwork—it’s about standing beside veterans through some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. As a female advocate, she plays a particularly vital role in supporting veterans—especially women—who may be navigating claims involving military sexual assault or unacceptable behaviour. Her presence offers a safe, understanding, and trusted space for these individuals to share their stories and seek the justice and compensation they deserve. Ash is known for her empathy, tenacity, and ability to turn complexity into clarity. She ensures her clients are informed, empowered, and never alone on their journey.
Her calm professionalism and personal integrity have earned her the trust of veterans and colleagues alike. Ash is widely known among her colleagues and clients for her emotional intelligence, her commitment to seeing things through, and her talent for breaking down complex legislation and procedural information into language that empowers. She takes time to ensure veterans understand each step of the process, making them active participants in their own advocacy journey.
Her impact extends far beyond outcomes—it’s felt in the confidence and peace of mind she instills in every veteran she works with.
Ash’s passion for the role leads to her rarely being seen outside of the office, if you do catch Ash outside you can find her participating in cosplay events at comic conventions. Ash has some experience piloting small planes – but we won’t be having her land one any time soon. Ash is also a former sports entertainer, having performed as a ‘professional wrestler’ in the Queensland wrestling circuit.
Ashleigh Milne
Darcy Fraser
Darcy Fraser
A former member of the Royal Australian Navy, Darcy Fraser brings a strong sense of purpose and professionalism to his role as VetComp’s Onboarding Manager. Drawing on his own lived experience as a veteran and his deep understanding of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), Darcy plays a vital role in supporting veterans from all walks of life as they begin their claims journey.
Darcy’s military background gives him a genuine connection to the veteran community and a firsthand appreciation of the challenges service can leave behind—both seen and unseen. Whether a veteran is still serving or discharged many years ago, Darcy ensures they feel heard, respected, and well-supported from the very first conversation.
In his role at VetComp, Darcy is often the first point of contact, guiding veterans through what can be a complex and confusing process. He takes the time to explain how the system works, what to expect, and how VetComp will stand with them every step of the way. His calm, steady approach helps transform uncertainty into clear, confident progress.
Known for his attention to detail, empathy, and genuine nature. Darcy ensures that every veteran receives the respect and clarity they deserve from the outset. With him at the front line of support, veterans can feel confident they are starting their claim journey on the right foot—with someone who understands their experience and is committed to their outcome.
Outside of work, Darcy enjoys staying active—he’s a keen runner, a passionate rugby league fan, and has even stepped into the ring for five amateur boxing matches.
Darcy Fraser
Nathan Moreno
Nathan Moreno
With a professional journey spanning policy, complex claims, and veteran advocacy, Nathan Moreno brings both heart and insight to his work at VetComp. His expertise in navigating legislation allows him to turn policy into practical outcomes that make a genuine difference in veterans’ lives.
Coming from a family with a history of ADF service, Nathan carries a deep respect for those who have served. That personal connection underpins his commitment to delivering clear, strategic, and effective support for every veteran he represents.
At VetComp, Nathan is known for his precision, persistence, and deep working knowledge of the DVA system. He approaches each case with care and clarity, ensuring that every veteran is strongly represented and that their journey through the claims process is made as straightforward as possible. Drawing on his robust legislative knowledge, Nathan frequently challenges DVA delegate decisions where errors or oversights have occurred—ensuring nothing is missed and that every entitlement is pursued to its fullest.
Nathan believes every veteran has a story that deserves to be heard—and he works to ensure that story is understood and respected at every stage of the process. In his spare time, Nathan enjoys exploring cinema—if you name a film, chances are he’s seen it and has a thoughtful take on what makes it shine (or fall flat).
Nathan Moreno
Elizabeth Archer
Elizabeth Archer
Elizabeth Archer, VetComp’s Veteran Wellbeing Officer and registered psychologist with over 30 years of experience—and a long history of working with veterans—Elizabeth offers something rare in a complex system: calm, candid, human support when it’s needed most.
Her role is to provide mental health support throughout the DVA claims process, helping veterans check in with how they’re really going—mentally, emotionally, and personally. While your advocate is focused on progressing your claim,
These check-ins are private, low-pressure conversations that create space to reflect, reset, and speak openly—without stigma, paperwork, or clinical coldness. Whether you’re dealing with chronic stress, long-term conditions, or just not feeling quite right, Elizabeth is here to listen without judgment.
She may look like a sweet little old lady, but don’t be fooled—Elizabeth has worked with thousands of people and has seen it all. She’s nearly impossible to offend, completely unphased by strong language and always up for a straight conversation. Elizabeth is here to fill the gap—ensuring that support remains readily available and accessible whenever you need it. Because at VetComp, your wellbeing matters just as much as the outcome of your claim.
Outside of VetComp, Elizabeth shares her home with two very pampered King Charles Cavaliers who kindly allow her a corner of the bed. She enjoys pre-dawn walks and can be found holding her own on the dance floor.
Elizabeth Archer
FAQs
We’ve gathered our most commonly asked questions here, so you can feel informed, at ease, and ready to take the next step toward the support and benefits you deserve.
What conditions can I claim initial liability for?
You can claim initial liability for a wide range of physical or psychological conditions, including PTSD, osteoarthritis, tinnitus, depression, hearing loss, and more. Each condition must be diagnosed and meet DVA’s legislative requirements, including a recognised Statement of Principles (SoP) factor and a link to service.
Do I need to be discharged to claim initial liability?
No. You can claim initial liability while still serving in the ADF. In fact, DVA encourages early lodgement while medical evidence is easier to access and age-based compensation rates may be more favourable.
How long does an initial liability claim take?
The DVA typically takes between 3–6 months to assess initial liability claims, though timeframes may vary depending on evidence complexity and whether further information is requested. We aim to fast-track your submission to reduce delays.
Can I lodge a DVA claim for an old injury or condition?
Yes. You can claim initial liability for conditions that began years ago as long as you can provide supporting evidence and meet the relevant SoP criteria. The longer you wait, the more difficult it may be to locate records, so it’s important to lodge sooner rather than later.
What is the difference between initial liability and permanent impairment?
Initial liability is about getting DVA to recognise that your condition is service-related.
Permanent impairment (PI) is the next step, where DVA assesses how much the accepted condition affects your life, and determines your eligibility for lump sum compensation or ongoing payments. You cannot access PI benefits unless initial liability is approved first.
Will DVA contact my unit or chain of command?
No. Your privacy is protected under strict confidentiality laws. DVA will not contact your unit or chain of command without your consent. If you’re serving and want to keep things completely separate, the DVA can arrange for external assessments. Your right to independent medical assessments is protected.
Let’s move forward together
From active duty to civilian life, we make it easier to understand your entitlements and take action. Reach out to us today and get the compensation you deserve.