Veterans Review Board Appeals
The Veterans Review Board (VRB) is an independent tribunal that reviews DVA decisions relating to compensation and entitlements. It operates outside of DVA and can set aside, vary, or affirm the original decision. For most VEA and DRCA compensation decisions, veterans can now access the VRB directly without going through Internal Reconsideration first, following the expansion of direct access from 21 April 2025.
VRB hearings are less formal than a court but are structured proceedings. A presiding member chairs the hearing, which can include written submissions, oral evidence from the veteran, and responses from DVA. New evidence can be introduced at the VRB stage.
Preparation is everything. A well-prepared VRB submission with strong supporting evidence and clear written arguments substantially improves the outcome. We prepare your case and attend the hearing with you.
Who is eligible
You have received an unfavourable DVA decision
For VEA and DRCA compensation decisions: direct access to VRB is available from 21 April 2025
For MRCA decisions: Internal Reconsideration is generally required first before VRB access
You are within the applicable time limit for lodging an appeal
How it works
Review the Decision
We review the DVA decision and all supporting material to understand the grounds on which it was made and identify the basis for appeal.
Lodge Application
We lodge your VRB application within the required timeframe and gather any additional medical or factual evidence needed.
Prepare Submission
We prepare your written submission to the VRB, setting out the factual and legal basis for overturning the decision and attaching all supporting evidence.
Hearing and Outcome
We attend the VRB hearing with you and present your case. We respond to questions from the Board and advise on next steps after the outcome.
How Clear Path helps
We advise on whether the grounds for a VRB appeal are strong enough to proceed
We gather additional medical evidence and specialist reports where needed
We prepare a thorough written submission aligned to the VRB's legislative framework
We attend the hearing and present your case to the Board
We advise on options if the VRB outcome is still unfavourable
Common questions
Do I need a lawyer for a VRB hearing?
No. VRB hearings are designed to be accessible without legal representation. We attend and present your case as your advocate. In some complex matters involving significant legal questions, engaging a solicitor as well may be warranted, but for most cases experienced advocacy preparation is sufficient.
Can I submit new medical evidence at the VRB stage?
Yes. The VRB considers all evidence available at the time of the hearing, including evidence that wasn't before DVA when the original decision was made. Gathering additional specialist opinions and medical reports is often a key part of VRB preparation.
How long does a VRB hearing take?
Most VRB hearings last between 30 minutes and a couple of hours. Processing times from lodgement to hearing date vary depending on the VRB's workload and the complexity of the case. We'll give you a realistic timeframe based on current conditions.
Ready to get started?
Book a free consultation and we'll walk you through what this means for your situation.
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