Recent changes to our legislation

We administer laws to support veterans and members of our defence forces. Some laws say how we must deliver our income support, compensation and health programs. Others focus on commemorations, war graves and defence housing.

Australian Veterans’ Recognition (Putting Veterans and their Families First) Act 2019

The Australian Veterans’ Recognition (Putting Veterans and their Families First) Act 2019 (the Act) received Royal Assent on 30 October 2019 and commenced on 31 October 2019.

Defence Service Homes Amendment Act 2019

Amendment to the Act to expand eligiblity to current and former ADF members who have completed at least one day of continuous service.

Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment

Amendments to the MRCA to simplify treatment pathways for medical treatment

Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation (Defence-related Claims) Regulations 2019 (the DRCA Regulations 2019)

Regulations which commenced on 1 October 2019 and were drafted to prescribe, set out, and repeal measures in the existing regulatory framework.

Schedule 1 – Claims by Chief of Defence Force on behalf of persons

Amendments to the MRCA regarding liability claims for currently serving Australian Defence Force members

Schedule 2: Obtaining information

Amendments to the DRCA regarding obtaining information

Schedule 3: Exempt lump sums

Amendments to the VEA regarding lump sum exemptions

Treatment Benefits (Special Access) Act 2019 and Treatment Benefits (Special Access) (Consequential Amendments and Transitional Provisions) Act 2019

This Act applies in relation to treatment provided, travel expenses incurred and payment of pharmaceutical supplement on and after 1 July 2019

Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (Partner Service Pension and Other Measures) Act 2019

Amendment to the VEA to implement three new measures

Veterans’ Affairs Legislation Amendment (Supporting the Wellbeing of Veterans and Their Families) Act 2020

Amendments made to the VEA and MRCA Acts to support and improve the wellbeing of veterans and their families.