Veterans Review Board Appeals: How to Challenge DVA Decisions
Having a DVA compensation claim denied can be frustrating and disheartening. However, a denied claim is not the end of the road. You have the right to appeal DVA decisions to the Veterans Review Board (VRB), an independent tribunal that will take a fresh look at your case.
This article explains the VRB appeal process, including recent changes to the appeals pathway, and how psychiatric evidence can support your appeal.
Important Update — April 2025: The Single Review Pathway now provides all veterans with access to the VRB as the first step in appeals, regardless of which Act your claim falls under (VEA, MRCA, or DRCA).
What is the Veterans Review Board?
The Veterans Review Board (VRB) is a specialist tribunal that is independent from DVA. When you appeal to the VRB, they conduct an independent “merit review” — meaning they take a fresh look at the facts, the law, and relevant policy to make their own decision. They are not bound by DVA’s original determination.
The VRB is designed to be veteran-friendly and less formal than courts or tribunals. Their goal is to reach fair outcomes through structured conversations and dispute resolution processes where possible.
When Can You Appeal to the VRB?
You can ask the VRB to review many types of DVA compensation decisions, including:
- Liability decisions (whether your condition is accepted as service-related)
- Permanent impairment assessments
- Incapacity payment decisions
- Rehabilitation service decisions
Note: Some decisions (such as income support and treatment requests) follow different pathways. Your DVA determination letter will explain your appeal options.
Time Limits for Appeals
Time limits depend on the type of decision and when it was made:
For Decisions Made On or After 21 April 2025
Under the new Single Review Pathway, you have 12 months from the date of your determination letter to apply for review by the VRB. This applies to VEA, MRCA, and DRCA claims.
For Decisions Made Before 21 April 2025
Different timeframes apply depending on the Act and type of claim. For example:
- MRCA claims: 12 months from the determination
- VEA death/entitlement: 12 months (but maximum arrears only if applied within 3 months)
- DRCA claims (pre-April 2025): Request DVA reconsideration within 30 days, then ART appeal within 60 days
The VRB Appeal Process
Step 1: Lodge Your Application
Complete Form D7524 or lodge online through the VRB website. Include:
- Your DVA client number
- Details of the decision you’re appealing
- Brief reasons why you disagree with the decision
Step 2: Case Assessment
The VRB will review your application and let you know if any additional information is needed. They may offer Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) processes to try to resolve your case without a formal hearing.
Step 3: Gather Additional Evidence
This is your opportunity to strengthen your case with new evidence that DVA didn’t have, such as:
- Updated psychiatric reports
- Additional medical evidence
- Statements from colleagues who can support your account
- Documentation DVA may have overlooked
Step 4: Hearing (if required)
If your case cannot be resolved through ADR, a hearing will be scheduled. VRB hearings are less formal than court proceedings and are designed to be accessible for veterans.
Step 5: Decision
The VRB will issue a written decision. If the VRB does not uphold your appeal, you may have the option to appeal further to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART).
The Role of Psychiatric Evidence in Appeals
One of the most common reasons for denied mental health claims is insufficient or unclear medical evidence. A new or updated psychiatric report can be critical for a successful appeal by:
- Clearly establishing your diagnosis using DSM-5 criteria
- Explicitly linking your condition to your military service
- Addressing any gaps or questions from the original assessment
- Providing updated information about symptom severity and impairment
An independent psychiatric assessment conducted specifically to address VRB requirements can provide the evidence needed to overturn an unfavourable decision.
Costs and Representation
Getting a review by the VRB is free. DVA may reimburse some costs for obtaining medical documents or travel related to your case.
You can represent yourself, or you can have someone represent you — such as an ex-service organisation (ESO) advocate, a family member, or a legal representative. However, DVA does not reimburse costs for legal advice or representation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will appealing affect my existing benefits?
No. Lodging an appeal does not affect any benefits you're currently receiving. The appeal only concerns the specific decision you're challenging.
Can I submit new evidence that DVA didn't see?
Yes. The VRB must consider all relevant evidence, including new material that wasn't part of the original DVA decision. This is one of the main advantages of the VRB process.
What happens if the VRB denies my appeal?
You may have the right to appeal to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART). The VRB decision will explain your options. There are time limits for ART appeals (generally 3 months from the VRB decision).
Book with March Ahead
March Ahead provides psychiatric assessments specifically designed to support VRB appeals. Our comprehensive reports address DVA requirements and can provide the additional evidence needed for your appeal.
Related Resources
- Related: DVA Psychiatric Report Requirements
- Related: What is a DVA Psychiatric Assessment?
- Service page: VRB Hearing Reports