A Permanent Impairment (PI) claim is for compensation when an accepted condition has stabilised — meaning it is unlikely to substantially improve with further treatment. PI compensation is generally paid as a lump sum, though the amount depends on how much the condition affects your daily life, as assessed by DVA.
You can only claim PI after DVA has accepted liability for your condition. The condition must have reached a point where it is stable and is not expected to substantially change. This is sometimes called "maximum medical improvement."
How impairment is assessed:
DVA uses a points-based system to rate the level of impairment. Under MRCA, this is done using GARP M (Guide to Determining Impairment and Compensation). Under VEA, it uses GARP V (Guide to the Assessment of Rates of Veterans' Pensions). DVA arranges for a medical assessment — you do not need to organise this yourself.
Under the MRCA, impairment points from all of your accepted conditions are assessed together. The minimum for permanent impairment compensation is 10 impairment points combined across your accepted conditions, not 10 points from any single condition. Where the impairment comes from a single accepted condition that is hearing loss, loss or loss of use of a finger or toe, or loss of taste or smell, the minimum is 5 points (MRCA sections 68 and 69). This combined assessment is a long-standing MRCA rule and was not introduced by the 1 July 2026 changes. A later-accepted condition or a worsening needs to increase your overall impairment by at least 5 points to attract additional compensation.
Combined impairment calculation:
When you have multiple accepted conditions, DVA uses a combined impairment calculation (not simple addition). Under GARP M, subsequent conditions yield diminishing marginal point returns. For example, two conditions each worth 10 points do not equal 20 points — the combined value is typically lower. This is calculated using the Combined Values Chart in the GARP guides. Understanding this helps set realistic expectations for your total impairment rating. DVA arranges the assessment — you do not need to calculate combined values yourself.
Key thresholds to be aware of:
At 60 or more impairment points under MRCA, you become eligible for a Gold Card, which covers all health care needs (not just your accepted conditions). The Gold Card is also available through other pathways including VEA Special Rate (TPI), Prisoner of War status, Victoria Cross or George Cross, war widow or widower status, and age-based eligibility for veterans aged 70 or older with qualifying service. See the Gold Card article for all eligibility pathways. At 80 or more impairment points, additional lump sums may apply.
Indicative ranges for MRCA PI lump sums vary widely from around $12,000 to $200,000 or more depending on impairment points. Actual amounts depend on individual DVA assessment. This is indicative only. Verify current rates at dva.gov.au/access-benefits/payment-rates.
How to lodge:
Permanent Impairment claims do not use a single numbered application form. Contact DVA or check MyService for the current lodgement process. Verify directly with DVA or a qualified advocate before lodging.
This is a guide only. Always verify with DVA directly or with a qualified advocate before lodging a claim.