MRCA — Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004

How the MRCA works for post-2004 service.

The Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA) is the most recent of the three Acts and covers ADF members whose service began on or after 1 July 2004.

The MRCA provides compensation through Initial Liability (accepting your condition as service-related), Permanent Impairment (lump sum for stable conditions), and Incapacity Payments (lost income support).

From 1 July 2026, the MRCA becomes the single Act for all new compensation claims through the VETS Act changes. The "improved MRCA" includes enhancements like whole-of-person impairment assessment.

Under MRCA, Permanent Impairment is generally paid as a lump sum based on impairment points. The Gold Card is available at 60 or more impairment points.

Official + GuidanceVerified 2026-03-17

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

This article explains official DVA processes in plain language. Verify details directly with DVA.

legislation.gov.au

This is a guide only. Always verify with DVA directly or with a qualified advocate before lodging a claim.