Overview of Legislative Reform – Effective 1 July 2026

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The Australian Government is consolidating the three separate veterans' entitlement schemes (VEA, DRCA, MRCA) into a single, simplified legislative framework. This will:

• Apply consistently to all future claims.
   
• Retain no disadvantage protections for existing recipients.
   
• Improve clarity and reduce red tape in claims processes.

• The current system is complex, confusing, and expensive to administer.
   
• Veterans often don’t understand which Act they fall under or what they’re entitled to.
   
• The 2019 Productivity Commission and 2023 Royal Commission both recommended simplification as urgent and essential.

Veterans making claims for household services (HHS) after 1 July 2026 will be processed under one system, removing confusion about whether they’re covered by DRCA, MRCA or VEA.  This greatly streamlines your ability to support clients efficiently.

Clients already approved under the current Acts will not lose entitlements.  There is a “no disadvantage” test built into the transition. ADFV-OHS can reassure veterans that they will not be penalised or have benefits removed due to the legislative change.

DVA will implement improved digital systems and clearer pathways for lodging and managing claims.  This should mean:

• Less paperwork
   
• Faster processing
   
• Easier coordination of medical or OT assessments
   
• Greater scope for bulk submissions via ADFV-OHS

The new model aims to simplify DVA auditing and oversight of providers.  ADFV-OHS’s centralised payment and provider management model fits well within this governance structure and should be well-received by DVA.

• The law is changing, but you won’t lose anything you already receive.
   
• From 1 July 2026, all household support claims will be easier to manage.
   
• ADFV-OHS is here to guide you through the process at no cost to you.
   
• You can lodge new claims, seek reassessment, or just ask questions at any time.