Dermatitis / Eczema

This guide covers what DVA looks for when assessing this condition, including the relevant Statement of Principles factors, the evidence you should gather, and common preparation tips. Expand each section for more detail.

You are reviewing the condition-specific guidance to understand what evidence and preparation DVA expects.

PhysicalVETS Act 2026

Also known as: Skin Condition (Dermatitis)Dermatitis and eczema are inflammatory skin conditions causing redness, itching, and irritation. In veterans these can be linked to exposure to irritants during service (fuels, chemicals, tropical environments) or can be aggravated by stress from service-related mental health conditions.

DVA uses Statements of Principles () from the Repatriation Medical Authority to determine whether a condition can be linked to service. For Skin Condition (Dermatitis), DVA generally considers the following factors:

Being in contact with a substance that caused irritant or allergic contact dermatitis during service — fuels, lubricants, chemicals, plant materials, insect repellents
Having a psychiatric condition linked to service that aggravates dermatitis
Being in a tropical or humid environment during service where conditions favoured skin irritation
Using medications for a service-related condition that can cause dermatitis

Reference: SoP No. 41 of 2014 (Reasonable Hypothesis) / SoP No. 42 of 2014 (Balance of Probabilities). RH applies to operational/warlike service; BoP applies to peacetime service. Verify at rma.gov.au.Source: rma.gov.au — verify this directly with DVA for your circumstances.

DVA uses two different standards of proof depending on your type of service. Understanding which applies to you can help you prepare your evidence.

Reasonable Hypothesis (RH)Applies to: operational, warlike, or non-warlike serviceUnder the Reasonable Hypothesis standard (operational/warlike/non-warlike service), DVA generally considers that exposure to irritants or allergens during service, or having a service-related condition that contributes to dermatitis — with clinical onset within a relevant period — is sufficient to raise a reasonable hypothesis.

Balance of Probabilities (BoP)Applies to: peacetime serviceUnder the Balance of Probabilities standard (peacetime service), DVA generally considers that the veteran must show it is more likely than not that dermatitis was caused or materially contributed to by exposures or conditions during service.

In plain EnglishIf you had operational or warlike service, the Reasonable Hypothesis (RH) standard applies — this is a lower threshold. If your service was peacetime only, the stricter Balance of Probabilities (BoP) standard applies. SoP instruments are updated periodically by the RMA. Always verify the current instrument at rma.gov.au/sops.

Benefit of the doubt: DVA is legally required to give you the benefit of the doubt if evidence is evenly balanced (s119 , s335 ). Learn more

DVA generally considers the standard of proof based on your service type. Verify this directly with DVA or a qualified advocate.

Required

Clinical diagnosis of dermatitis or eczemaA diagnosis from your GP or dermatologist.How to get it: See your GP or request a referral to a dermatologist.Estimated time: 1-4 weeks

Evidence of the service-related causeDocumentation of chemical exposure, deployment to tropical environments, or DVA acceptance of a mental health condition.How to get it: Service records, deployment records, or DVA acceptance letter.Estimated time: 4-8 weeks for Defence records

Medical nexus reportA report linking your skin condition to service.How to get it: Ask your GP or dermatologist.Estimated time: 2-4 weeks

Document the specific substances you were exposed to — fuel, oil, solvents, insecticides, tropical environments
If your skin condition is aggravated by stress related to PTSD or anxiety, consider asking your doctor whether they can comment on this relationship
Photos of the condition are helpful supporting evidence

Medical nexus statement (from your doctor)

A medical opinion linking your dermatitis to service-related exposure or conditions.

What to ask your doctor

I developed dermatitis after exposure to [specific chemicals/environments] during my service. Could you write a report?

Personal statement (your own words)

Describe the exposure, onset, and current impact.

Suggested structure

Specific substances or environments you were exposed to
When the skin condition started
How it affects your daily life
Any link to stress or mental health

Common mistakes to avoid

✗Not being specific about the substances or conditions encountered during service

Treatments DVA may cover

Dermatologist consultations
Medications (topical steroids, moisturisers, antihistamines)
Patch testing for allergens
Ongoing management and specialist review

Next steps to consider

Proceed to Permanent Impairment claim if the condition is chronic
Continue management with your dermatologist
Address any mental health conditions that aggravate the skin condition

Actual entitlements depend on individual DVA assessment. This is indicative only.

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You do not need to have everything ready before you start. Use these tools to work through the process at your own pace.

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Official + GuidanceVerified March 2026

This page combines official DVA information with platform-authored guidance. Official sources are cited where applicable.

SoP factors sourced from RMA. Guidance text explains official processes in plain language.

RMA — Statements of Principles

This is a guide onlyThis information is a free guide. It is not legal advice, medical advice, or financial advice. Always verify with DVA directly or with a qualified advocate before lodging a claim.

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Dermatitis / Eczema

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