Evidence Guide

What evidence do you need? Use the Evidence Builder to get a personalised checklist.

From 31 March 2025: DVA checks claims for completeness at intake. A complete claim requires a fully completed form, correct proof of identity, and a medical diagnosis. If any of these are missing, your claim will be placed on hold until they are provided — but your lodgement date is still registered.

Three Evidence Tiers

Prioritise gathering Required items first.

Required

Essential for your claim to be assessed.

Recommended

Helps paint a clearer picture of your situation.

Optional

May be relevant depending on your circumstances.

Common Evidence Types

Service Records

Records confirming your ADF service dates, unit, rank, role, and deployments.How to get: Request from Defence Archives (1800 333 362) or check MyService. Allow 6-8 weeks.Required for all claims

Medical Diagnosis

Formal written diagnosis from a GP, specialist, or qualified clinician.How to get: Book a GP appointment. Ask for a written report confirming diagnosis.Required since 31 March 2025

Nexus Statement

Written opinion from your doctor linking your condition to your service.How to get: Ask your treating doctor to provide a statement connecting your condition to service activities.Required for Initial Liability

Incident Description

Your own written account of what happened during service that contributed to your condition.How to get: Write this yourself in plain language — what happened, when, where, and how it contributed.Required for Initial Liability

Functional Impact

Description of how your condition affects daily life, relationships, and work.How to get: Write specific examples of activities you struggle with or can no longer do.Recommended

Buddy Statement

Statement from a fellow ADF member who witnessed the incident or observed your condition.How to get: Ask a former colleague to write their account. Form D2141 can be used.Recommended

Specialist Reports

Reports from specialists such as psychiatrists, orthopaedic surgeons, or audiologists.How to get: Ask your GP for a referral. DVA may also arrange a specialist assessment.Optional

Employment Records

Evidence of how your condition affects your ability to work, including employer statements.How to get: Request from your employer, or write your own statement about work impact.Optional

Photos or Diaries

Personal records, photos from service, or diary entries that support your account.How to get: Gather any personal records from your time in service that relate to your condition.Optional

Build Your Evidence Checklist

Get a personalised checklist based on your claim type.

Start Evidence Builder

This is a guide only. Verify this directly with DVA or a qualified advocate.