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MILITARY REHABILITATION AND COMPENSATION ACT 2004 - NOTES

Act No. 51 of 2004 as amended

This compilation was prepared on 21 September 2009
taking into account amendments up to Act No. 81 of 2009

The text of any of those amendments not in force
on that date is appended in the Notes section

The operation of amendments that have been incorporated may be affected by application provisions that are set out in the Notes section

Prepared by the Office of Legislative Drafting and Publishing,
Attorney‑General's Department, Canberra

  

  

  


Contents

Chapter 1--Introduction                                                                                                      1

1............ Short title ............................................................................................ 1

2............ Commencement .................................................................................. 1

3............ Simplified outline of this Act ............................................................. 2

4............ Extension to external Territories ......................................................... 3

5............ Definitions .......................................................................................... 3

6............ Kinds of service to which this Act applies ...................................... 14

7............ Reference to service injury sustained or service disease contracted includes reference to aggravation etc.              14

8............ Ministerial determinations that other people are members .............. 14

9............ Definition of duty for cadets and declared members ......................... 15

10.......... Determinations for part‑time Reservists and cadets who are unlikely to return to defence service         16

11.......... Ministerial determination of pay‑related allowances ....................... 16

12.......... Deceased members whose dependants are entitled to benefits under this Act         17

13.......... Definition of treatment ..................................................................... 17

14.......... Definition of Commonwealth superannuation scheme for a person who has chosen a Special Rate Disability Pension .......................................................................................................... 18

15.......... Definition of dependant .................................................................... 18

16.......... Certain relationships ......................................................................... 19

17.......... Eligible young persons and partners living with a member .............. 19

18.......... Child of a member born or adopted after the member's death ......... 20

19.......... Ascertaining whether persons receiving family tax benefits etc. are dependent       20

20.......... Some references to members include references to former members 21

Chapter 2--Accepting liability for service injuries, diseases and deaths 22

Part 1--Simplified outline of this Chapter                                                               22

21.......... Simplified outline of this Chapter .................................................... 22

Part 2--When the Commission must accept liability for service injuries, diseases and deaths      23

22.......... Simplified outline of this Part ........................................................... 23

23.......... Commission's acceptance of liability for service injuries and diseases 24

24.......... Commission's acceptance of liability for service deaths .................. 25

25.......... Limited effect of acceptance of liability ........................................... 27

Part 3--Definitions of service injury, service disease and service death 28

26.......... Simplified outline of this Part ........................................................... 28

27.......... Main definitions of service injury and service disease ..................... 28

28.......... Main definition of service death ....................................................... 29

29.......... Definitions of service injury, service disease and service death arising from treatment provided by the Commonwealth .......................................................................................................... 31

30.......... Definitions of service injury and service disease for aggravations etc. of signs and symptoms              32

Part 4--When the Commission is prevented from accepting liability for service injuries, diseases and deaths                                                                                                                        34

31.......... Simplified outline of this Part ........................................................... 34

32.......... Exclusions relating to serious defaults or wilful acts etc.
[see also Table B] ............................................................................. 34

33.......... Exclusions relating to reasonable counselling about performance etc. 37

34.......... Exclusions of injuries, diseases and deaths relating to certain false representations [see also Table B]   38

35.......... Exclusions relating to travel [see also Table B] ................................ 39

36.......... Exclusion relating to use of tobacco products .................................. 40

Chapter 3--Rehabilitation                                                                                                42

Part 1--General provisions                                                                                              42

Division 1--Simplified outline of this Chapter                                               42

37.......... Simplified outline of this Chapter .................................................... 42

Division 2--Aim of rehabilitation                                                                          43

38.......... Aim of rehabilitation ......................................................................... 43

Division 3--Definitions                                                                                               44

39.......... Definition of rehabilitation authority ................................................ 44

40.......... Rule if rehabilitation authority for a person changes ........................ 44

41.......... Other definitions ............................................................................... 45

Part 2--Rehabilitation programs                                                                                  46

Division 1--Application of Part                                                                              46

42.......... Simplified outline of this Part ........................................................... 46

43.......... Persons to whom this Part applies ................................................... 46

Division 2--Assessment of a person's capacity for rehabilitation      48

44.......... When an assessment may or must be carried out ............................. 48

45.......... What may be done as part of an assessment .................................... 48

46.......... Requirements for examinations ......................................................... 49

47.......... Compensation for journey and accommodation costs ...................... 49

48.......... Amount of compensation for journey and accommodation costs .... 50

49.......... Whom the compensation is payable to ............................................ 50

50.......... Consequences of failure to undergo an examination ......................... 50

Division 3--Provision of rehabilitation programs                                        52

51.......... Rehabilitation authority may determine that a person is to undertake a rehabilitation program              52

52.......... Consequences of failure to undertake a rehabilitation program ........ 53

53.......... Cessation or variation of a rehabilitation program ............................ 54

Part 3--Alterations, aids and appliances relating to rehabilitation           55

Division 1--Preliminary                                                                                             55

54.......... Simplified outline of this Part ........................................................... 55

55.......... Persons to whom Part applies .......................................................... 55

Division 2--Alterations, aids and appliances relating to rehabilitation 56

56.......... Alterations, aids and appliances relating to rehabilitation ................ 56

57.......... Amount of compensation for alterations, aids and appliances ......... 56

58.......... Matters to be considered in determining matters relating to alterations, aids and appliances 57

59.......... Whom compensation for alterations etc. is payable to .................... 57

Part 4--Assistance in finding suitable work                                                           59

60.......... Simplified outline of this Part ........................................................... 59

61.......... Assistance in finding suitable work for full‑time members .............. 59

62.......... Assistance in finding suitable work for other members and former members          60

Part 5--Transition management                                                                                    61

63.......... Simplified outline of this Part ........................................................... 61

64.......... Transition management ..................................................................... 61

Chapter 4--Compensation for members and former members                   62

Part 1--Simplified outline of this Chapter                                                               62

65.......... Simplified outline of this Chapter .................................................... 62

Part 2--Permanent impairment                                                                                      63

66.......... Simplified outline of this Part ........................................................... 63

67.......... Guide to determining impairment and compensation ....................... 63

68.......... Entitlement to compensation for permanent impairment ................. 64

69.......... No compensation for less than the threshold impairment points .... 65

70.......... Compensation for aggravations etc. .................................................. 65

71.......... Additional compensation .................................................................. 66

72.......... Additional compensation for aggravations etc. ................................. 67

73.......... Deciding whether an impairment is likely to continue indefinitely .. 67

74.......... Amount of compensation ................................................................. 68

75.......... Interim compensation ....................................................................... 68

76.......... Notifying the claimant ...................................................................... 69

77.......... When weekly compensation becomes payable ................................ 70

78.......... Choice to take lump sum .................................................................. 72

79.......... When lump sum is payable .............................................................. 73

80.......... Additional amounts payable if maximum compensation paid .......... 73

81.......... Compensation for cost of financial advice ........................................ 74

82.......... Amount of financial advice compensation ........................................ 75

83.......... Whom the compensation is payable to ............................................ 75

Part 3--Compensation for incapacity for service or work for members 76

Division 1--Entitlement to compensation                                                        76

84.......... Simplified outline of this Part ........................................................... 76

85.......... Compensation for incapacitated full‑time members ......................... 77

86.......... Compensation for incapacitated part‑time Reservists ..................... 77

87.......... Compensation for incapacitated cadets and declared members ........ 78

88.......... No compensation in certain cases relating to aggravations etc. of injuries or diseases             79

89.......... Amount of compensation for current members ................................ 79

Division 2--Working out normal and actual earnings for full‑time members      81

90.......... Simplified outline of this Division .................................................... 81

91.......... Working out normal earnings ............................................................ 81

92.......... Working out actual earnings .............................................................. 82

Division 3--Working out normal and actual earnings for part‑time Reservists                83

Subdivision A--Simplified outline of this Division                                              83

93.......... Simplified outline of this Division .................................................... 83

Subdivision B--Working out normal earnings for part‑time Reservists       84

94.......... Application of this Division to part‑time Reservists ....................... 84

95.......... Working out normal earnings ............................................................ 84

Subdivision C--Working out the ADF component of normal earnings           85

96.......... Working out the ADF component for an incapacitated Reservist who is incapacitated for service        85

97.......... Working out the ADF component for an incapacitated Reservist who is not incapacitated for service 86

Subdivision D--Working out the civilian component of normal earnings      87

98.......... Working out the civilian component for an incapacitated Reservist who is incapacitated for work        87

99.......... Definition of example period for the civilian component of normal earnings           88

100........ Working out the civilian component for an incapacitated Reservist who is not incapacitated for work 89

Subdivision E--Working out actual earnings                                                      89

101........ Working out actual earnings .............................................................. 89

Division 4--Working out normal and actual earnings for part‑time Reservists who were previously Permanent Forces members                                                         91

102........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................... 91

103........ Application of this Division to part‑time Reservists who were previously Permanent Forces members               91

104........ Working out normal earnings ............................................................ 92

105........ Working out actual earnings .............................................................. 93

Division 5--Working out normal and actual earnings for part‑time Reservists who were previously continuous full‑time Reservists                                                   94

Subdivision A--Simplified outline of this Division                                              94

106........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................... 94

Subdivision B--Working out normal earnings for part‑time Reservists who were previously continuous full‑time Reservists                                                                                       95

107........ Application of this Division to part‑time Reservists who were previously continuous full‑time Reservists         95

108........ Working out normal earnings ............................................................ 95

Subdivision C--Working out full‑time ADF earnings                                       96

109........ Working out full‑time ADF earnings ................................................ 96

Subdivision D--Working out pre‑CFTS earnings                                              97

110........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision ............................................... 97

111........ Working out pre‑CFTS earnings ....................................................... 97

112........ Working out pre‑CFTS pay ............................................................. 98

113........ Definition of example period for pre‑CFTS pay .............................. 99

114........ Working out reserve pay .................................................................. 99

114A..... Example periods for those injured as continuous full‑time Reservists 101

Subdivision E--Working out actual earnings                                                    102

115........ Working out actual earnings ............................................................ 102

Division 6--Working out normal and actual earnings for cadets and declared members             103

116........ Regulations may prescribe methods for working out normal and actual earnings for cadets and declared members ........................................................................................................ 103

Part 4--Compensation for incapacity for work for former members     104

Division 1--Entitlement to compensation                                                      104

117........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 104

118........ Compensation for incapacitated former members .......................... 105

119........ No compensation in certain cases relating to aggravations etc. of injuries or diseases             105

120........ Compensation for those over 65 .................................................... 106

121........ Compensation for those over 63 .................................................... 106

122........ Persons who are imprisoned ........................................................... 106

Division 2--Amount of compensation (other than for those who have chosen to receive a Special Rate Disability Pension)                                                                            107

Subdivision A--Simplified outline of this Division                                            107

123........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................. 107

Subdivision B--Amount of compensation generally                                          107

124........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision ............................................. 107

125........ Amount of compensation for former members .............................. 108

126........ Amount of compensation for retired persons receiving Commonwealth superannuation        108

127........ Amount of compensation for former members who are maintained in hospital etc.                109

Subdivision C--Amount of compensation where no Commonwealth superannuation is received     110

128........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision ............................................. 110

129........ Amount of compensation for maximum rate weeks ....................... 110

130........ Amount of compensation for the week whose hours exceed 45 times the normal weekly hours            111

131........ Amount of compensation after 45 weeks ....................................... 112

132........ Definitions of actual earnings, normal earnings and normal weekly hours            113

Subdivision D--Amount of compensation where Commonwealth superannuation is received          115

133........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision ............................................. 115

134........ Amount of compensation for retired person receiving only Commonwealth superannuation pension   116

135........ Amount of compensation for retired person who has received only Commonwealth superannuation lump sum   116

136........ Amount of compensation for retired person receiving both superannuation pension and lump sum      117

Subdivision E--Small amounts of compensation                                                118

137........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision ............................................. 118

138........ Converting small amounts of weekly compensation into lump sum compensation                 118

139........ Weekly compensation following conversion of weekly amounts to a lump sum     120

Division 3--Working out normal earnings for certain former Permanent Forces members      122

140........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................. 122

141........ Working out normal earnings .......................................................... 122

Division 4--Working out normal earnings and normal weekly hours for certain former continuous full‑time Reservists                                                                          124

Subdivision A--Simplified outline of this Division                                            124

142........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................. 124

Subdivision B--Working out normal earnings                                                 124

143........ Working out normal earnings .......................................................... 124

Subdivision C--Working out ADF earnings                                                      125

144........ Working out ADF earnings ............................................................. 125

Subdivision D--Working out pre‑CFTS earnings                                            126

145........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision ............................................. 126

146........ Working out pre‑CFTS earnings ..................................................... 126

147........ Working out pre‑CFTS pay ........................................................... 127

148........ Definition of example period for former continuous full‑time Reservists                128

149........ Working out reserve pay ................................................................ 129

Subdivision E--Working out normal weekly hours for persons who have chosen pre‑CFTS earnings          131

150........ Working out normal weekly hours for persons who have chosen pre‑CFTS earnings             131

Division 5--Working out normal earnings and normal weekly hours for former part‑time Reservists who were engaged in civilian work                                                    132

Subdivision A--Simplified outline of this Division                                            132

151........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................. 132

Subdivision B--Working out normal earnings of former part‑time Reservists who were engaged in civilian work   133

152........ Application of this Division to former part‑time Reservists who were engaged in civilian work            133

153........ Working out normal earnings .......................................................... 133

Subdivision C--Working out the ADF component of normal earnings         134

154........ Working out the ADF component of normal earnings ................... 134

155........ Definition of example period for ADF component of normal earnings 135

Subdivision D--Working out the civilian component of normal earnings    136

156........ Working out the civilian component of normal earnings ................ 136

157........ Definition of example period for the civilian component of normal earnings           137

Subdivision E--Working out normal weekly hours                                          137

158........ Working out normal weekly hours ................................................. 137

Division 6--Working out normal earnings for former part‑time Reservists who were not engaged in civilian work                                                                                         139

159........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................. 139

160........ Application of this Division to former part‑time Reservists who were not engaged in civilian work     139

161........ Working out normal earnings .......................................................... 140

Division 7--Working out normal earnings for former part‑time Reservists who were previously Permanent Forces members                                                       142

162........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................. 142

163........ Application of this Division to former part‑time Reservists who were previously Permanent Forces members   142

164........ Working out normal earnings .......................................................... 143

Division 8--Working out normal earnings and normal weekly hours for former part‑time Reservists who were previously continuous full‑time Reservists             144

Subdivision A--Simplified outline of this Division                                            144

165........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................. 144

Subdivision B--Working out normal earnings for former part‑time Reservists who were previously continuous full‑time Reservists                                                                                     145

166........ Application of this Division to former part‑time Reservists who were previously continuous full‑time Reservists ........................................................................................................ 145

167........ Working out normal earnings .......................................................... 145

Subdivision C--Working out full‑time ADF earnings                                     146

168........ Working out full‑time ADF earnings .............................................. 146

Subdivision D--Working out pre‑CFTS earnings                                            147

169........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision ............................................. 147

170........ Working out pre‑CFTS earnings ..................................................... 147

171........ Working out pre‑CFTS pay ........................................................... 148

172........ Definition of example period for the pre‑CFTS pay ...................... 149

173........ Working out reserve pay ................................................................ 150

173A..... Example periods for those injured as continuous full‑time Reservists 151

Subdivision E--Working out normal weekly hours for persons who have chosen pre‑CFTS earnings          152

174........ Working out normal weekly hours for persons who have chosen pre‑CFTS earnings             152

Division 9--Working out normal and actual earnings and normal weekly hours for persons who were cadets or declared members                                                       153

175........ Regulations may prescribe methods for working out normal and actual earnings and normal weekly hours for cadets and declared members ..................................................................... 153

Part 5--Adjusting the amount of compensation for incapacity for service or work               154

Division 1--Introduction                                                                                         154

176........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 154

177........ Definitions of normal earnings and actual earnings ...................... 154

Division 2--General rules relating to normal and actual earnings etc.   155

178........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................. 155

179........ Normal earnings that are less than the minimum wage ................... 155

180........ Amounts that are excluded when working out normal and actual earnings               155

181........ Matters to be considered in determining actual earnings ................ 156

182........ Indexation of pre‑CFTS pay and civilian daily earnings ................ 157

183........ Indexation of $100 in ADF pay ..................................................... 157

Division 3--Adjusting ADF pay and pay‑related allowances                159

184........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................. 159

185........ Increases in pay and allowances ..................................................... 159

186........ Increases in pay and allowances due to actual promotions ............ 160

187........ Commission must determine category of defence work when defence work abolished           160

188........ Commission may determine pay‑related allowances when defence work abolished                161

189........ Amount of pay and allowances for those undergoing initial training 163

190........ No other adjustments to be taken into account .............................. 164

Division 4--Adjusting other pay                                                                          165

191........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................. 165

192........ Definitions of civilian daily earnings, example period and pre‑CFTS pay               165

193........ Variations during the example period ............................................. 165

194........ Civilian daily earnings or pre‑CFTS pay if working them out is impracticable       166

Division 5--Working out compensation for parts of weeks                 167

195........ Simplified outline of this Division .................................................. 167

196........ Working out compensation for parts of weeks .............................. 167

Part 6--Choice to receive a Special Rate Disability Pension                    169

197........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 169

198........ What is a Special Rate Disability Pension? ..................................... 169

199........ Persons who are eligible to make a choice under this Part .............. 170

200........ Choice to receive Special Rate Disability Pension ......................... 170

201........ When the choice is to be made ........................................................ 170

202........ Other requirements for the choice .................................................. 171

203........ Determinations by Commission ..................................................... 171

204........ Offsets ............................................................................................ 172

205........ Compensation for cost of financial advice ...................................... 173

206........ Amount of financial advice compensation ...................................... 173

207........ Whom the compensation is payable to .......................................... 173

208........ Persons who are imprisoned ........................................................... 174

209........ Ceasing to meet certain criteria ....................................................... 174

210........ Return to work scheme ................................................................... 174

Part 7--Other types of compensation for members and former members 176

Division 1--Simplified outline of this Part                                                      176

211........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 176

Division 2--Motor Vehicle Compensation Scheme                                  177

212........ Motor Vehicle Compensation Scheme ........................................... 177

Division 3--Compensation for household and attendant care services                 178

213........ Definitions of attendant care services and household services ...... 178

214........ Compensation for household services ............................................ 178

215........ Matters to be considered in household services compensation claims 178

216........ Amount of household compensation .............................................. 179

217........ Compensation for attendant care services ...................................... 179

218........ Matters to be considered in attendant care compensation claims .. 180

219 ........ Amount of compensation for attendant care services .................... 180

220........ Whom household and attendant care compensation is payable to . 181

Division 4--MRCA supplement for members and former members 182

221........ Eligibility for MRCA supplement ................................................. 182

222........ MRCA supplement not payable in some circumstances ............... 183

223........ Rate of MRCA supplement ........................................................... 184

224........ Payment of MRCA supplement .................................................... 184

Division 5--Compensation for loss of, or damage to, medical aids 185

226........ Compensation for loss of, or damage to, medical aids .................... 185

227........ Exclusions relating to serious defaults etc. ..................................... 185

228........ Exclusions relating to travel ............................................................ 186

229........ Amount of medical aid compensation ............................................ 187

230........ Whom medical aid compensation is payable to .............................. 187

Chapter 5--Compensation for dependants of certain deceased members, members and former members                                                                                                                                     189

Part 1--Simplified outline of this Chapter                                                             189

231........ Simplified outline of this Chapter .................................................. 189

Part 2--Compensation for member's death for wholly dependent partners               190

Division 1--Simplified outline of this Part                                                      190

232........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 190

Division 2--Compensation for member's death for wholly dependent partners               191

233........ Compensation for member's death for wholly dependent partners 191

234........ Amount of compensation for wholly dependent partners ............. 191

235........ Notifying the partner of the choice ................................................ 192

236........ Requirements for choosing between the lump sum and the weekly amount            193

237........ Commonwealth to pay weekly amount after 6 months etc. .......... 193

238........ Whom the compensation is payable to .......................................... 194

Division 3--Compensation for cost of financial advice for wholly dependent partners 195

239........ Compensation for cost of financial advice for wholly dependent partners              195

240........ Amount of financial advice compensation ...................................... 195

241........ Whom the compensation is payable to .......................................... 195

Division 4--Continuing permanent impairment and incapacity etc. compensation for wholly dependent partners                                                                                                   196

242........ Continuing permanent impairment and incapacity etc. compensation for wholly dependent partners   196

243........ Amount of permanent impairment and incapacity etc. compensation 196

244........ Whom permanent impairment and incapacity etc. compensation is payable to      197

Division 5--MRCA supplement for wholly dependent partners       198

245........ Eligibility for MRCA supplement ................................................. 198

246........ MRCA supplement not payable in some circumstances ............... 198

247........ Rate of MRCA supplement ........................................................... 199

248........ Payment of MRCA supplement .................................................... 199

Part 3--Compensation for eligible young persons dependent on certain deceased members, members or former members                                                                                                200

Division 1--Simplified outline of this Part                                                      200

250........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 200

Division 2--Lump sum compensation for member's death for certain eligible young persons                201

251........ Lump sum compensation for member's death for certain eligible young persons    201

252........ Amount of compensation for dependent eligible young persons ... 201

Division 3--Weekly compensation for certain eligible young persons   202

253........ Weekly compensation for certain eligible young persons .............. 202

254........ Amount of weekly compensation .................................................. 202

Division 4--Continuing permanent impairment and incapacity etc. compensation for certain eligible young persons                                                                                     203

255........ Continuing permanent impairment and incapacity etc. compensation for certain eligible young persons               203

256........ Amount of permanent impairment and incapacity etc. compensation 204

Division 5--Whom compensation under Divisions 2 to 4 is payable to 205

257........ Whom the compensation is payable to .......................................... 205

Division 6--Education scheme for certain eligible young persons dependent on members, former members and deceased members                                            206

258........ Education scheme for certain eligible young persons ..................... 206

259........ Completing courses begun before turning 25 years old .................. 207

Division 7--Exclusion of Part for wholly dependent partners             208

260........ Exclusion of Part for wholly dependent partners ........................... 208

Part 4--Compensation for dependants other than wholly dependent partners and eligible young persons                                                                                                                                     209

261........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 209

262........ Compensation for dependants other than wholly dependent partners and eligible young persons         209

263........ Amount of compensation for other dependants ............................. 209

264........ Whom the compensation is payable to .......................................... 210

Part 5--Compensation for funeral expenses                                                        211

265........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 211

266........ Compensation for cost of funeral ................................................... 211

267........ Amount of funeral compensation ................................................... 211

268........ Whom funeral compensation is payable to .................................... 212

Chapter 6--Treatment for injuries and diseases                                               213

Part 1--Simplified outline of this Chapter                                                             213

269........ Simplified outline of this Chapter .................................................. 213

Part 2--Compensation for treatment costs                                                           214

270........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 214

271........ Compensation for treatment for service injuries and diseases etc. . 214

272........ Compensation for members entitled to treatment under regulation 58F of the Defence Force Regulations            216

273........ Compensation for those entitled to treatment under Part 3 ........... 216

274........ Relationship of this Part with other compensation provisions ...... 217

275........ No compensation if aggravated injury or disease ceases to be aggravated etc.         217

276........ Amount of treatment compensation ............................................... 217

277........ Whom treatment compensation is payable to ................................ 218

Part 3--Entitlement to provision of treatment                                                    219

Division 1--Simplified outline of this Part                                                      219

278........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 219

Division 2--Treatment for some members and former members     220

279........ Treatment for members entitled to treatment under regulation 58F of the Defence Force Regulations   220

280........ Treatment for service injuries and diseases of former members and part‑time Reservists etc.                220

281........ Treatment for persons with 60 impairment points ........................ 221

282........ Treatment for persons who are eligible for a Special Rate Disability Pension         221

283........ No treatment for aggravated injury or disease if aggravation ceases 222

Division 3--Treatment for certain dependants of deceased members   223

284........ Treatment for certain wholly dependent partners and eligible young persons         223

Division 4--Administration of the provision of treatment                     224

285........ Treatment at hospitals and other institutions etc. .......................... 224

286........ Determination for providing treatment ........................................... 224

287........ Providing treatment under this Part ................................................ 226

Part 4--Other compensation relating to treatment                                          227

Division 1--Simplified outline of this Part                                                      227

288........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 227

Division 2--Compensation for patients' and attendants' journey and accommodation costs     228

289........ Definition of compensable treatment .............................................. 228

290........ Compensation for journey costs relating to treatment ................... 228

291........ Compensation for accommodation relating to treatment ................ 229

292........ No compensation for journeys or accommodation outside Australia 230

293........ Amount of compensation for journeys .......................................... 231

294........ Amount of compensation for accommodation ............................... 231

295........ Matters to be considered in journey and accommodation compensation claims      232

296........ Whom compensation is payable to ................................................ 232

Division 3--Compensation for transportation costs                                 233

297........ Compensation for other person's transportation costs ................. 233

298........ Amount of transportation costs ..................................................... 233

299........ Whom compensation is payable to ................................................ 233

Division 4--MRCA supplement for members, former members and dependants           234

300........ Eligibility for MRCA supplement ................................................. 234

301........ MRCA supplement not payable in some circumstances ............... 234

302........ Rate of MRCA supplement ........................................................... 235

303........ Payment of MRCA supplement .................................................... 235

Part 5--Offences relating to treatment under this Chapter                        236

304........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 236

305........ Definitions ...................................................................................... 237

306........ Offence for false or misleading statements or documents relating to treatment       238

307........ Offence for medical service providers causing detriment to others 239

308........ Offence for medical service providers threatening detriment ......... 239

309........ Offence for bribery by medical service providers .......................... 240

310........ Offence for practitioners receiving bribes etc. ................................ 240

311........ Offence for pathology practitioners making payments to requesting practitioners                 241

312........ Offence for pathology practitioners providing pathology services to persons with whom they have arrangements ........................................................................................................ 241

313........ Offence for providing staff to be used in pathology services ......... 242

314........ Counselling statements inadmissible as evidence ........................... 242

315........ Recovery of amounts paid because of false or misleading statements 243

316........ Interest payable on amounts paid because of false or misleading statements          244

317........ Reduction in payments because of previous overpayments .......... 245

Chapter 7--Claims                                                                                                              246

Part 1--Making a claim                                                                                                   246

Division 1--Simplified outline of this Part                                                      246

318........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 246

Division 2--Making a claim                                                                                   248

319........ Making a claim ................................................................................ 248

320........ Who may make a claim ................................................................... 249

321........ Survival of claims and of right to claim ........................................... 250

322........ No new claim before earlier claim finally determined ..................... 251

323........ Giving claims and documents to the Commission .......................... 251

Division 3--What happens after a claim is made                                        253

Subdivision A--Investigation of claims                                                                253

324........ Investigation by the Commission ................................................... 253

Subdivision B--Needs assessments                                                                     253

325........ When the Commission may or must carry out a needs assessment 253

326........ Assessment of a person's needs ..................................................... 253

327........ Treatment path ............................................................................... 254

Subdivision C--Medical examinations                                                                 254

328........ Power to require medical examination ............................................ 254

329........ Consequences of failure to undergo an examination ....................... 255

Subdivision D--Obligations of claimants and Commission                             256

330........ Power to request the provision of information .............................. 256

331........ Certain documents to be supplied on request ................................ 257

Part 2--Determination of claims                                                                                 258

332........ Simplified outline of this Part ......................................................... 258

333........ Determination of claims .................................................................. 259

334........ Commission not bound by technicalities ........................................ 259

335........ Standard of proof for Commission and service chiefs .................... 260

336........ Commission not entitled to make certain presumptions ................ 261

337........ No onus of proof ............................................................................ 261

338........ Reasonableness of hypothesis to be assessed by reference to Statement of Principles           261

339........ Reasonable satisfaction to be assessed in certain cases by reference to Statement of Principles             263

340........ Determination by Commission overriding Authority's decision in relation to Statements of Principles                264

341........ Current Statement of Principles to be applied on review of a decision 267

342........ Determination of the onset date for an incapacity for service or work 268

343........ Determination of the date of death ................................................. 268

Chapter 8--Reconsideration and review of determinations                        269

Part 1--Preliminary                                                                                                            269

344........ Simplified outline of this Chapter .................................................. 269

345........ Definitions ...................................................................................... 270

Part 2--Notifying original determinations                                                             272

346........ Notifying original determinations ................................................... 272

Part 3--Reconsideration of determinations                                                          273

347........ Commission or service chief initiating reconsideration of original determinations   273

348........ Varying determinations made by the Board ................................... 273

349........ Claimant or service chief initiating reconsideration of determinations 274

350........ Reconsideration .............................................................................. 275

351........ Notifying reviewable determinations .............................................. 275

Part 4--Review by the Board of original determinations                             276

352........ Applications to the Board for review ............................................. 276

353........ Application of the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 ....................... 276

Part 5--Review by the Tribunal                                                                                  280

354........ Applications to the Tribunal for review ......................................... 280

355........ Modifications of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal Act 1975 ... 280

356........ Evidence .......................................................................................... 281

357........ Costs of proceedings before the Tribunal ....................................... 282

358........ Costs where proceedings rendered abortive ................................... 283

359........ Certain provisions not to apply to review of determinations of the Board             284

Chapter 9--The Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission 285

Part 1--Simplified outline of this Chapter                                                             285

360........ Simplified outline of this Chapter .................................................. 285

Part 2--Establishment of the Commission                                                            286

361........ Establishment ................................................................................. 286

Part 3--Functions                                                                                                                 287

362........ Functions ........................................................................................ 287

Part 4--Constitution of the Commission                                                                 288

363........ Constitution .................................................................................... 288

Part 5--Membership                                                                                                          289

364........ Membership ................................................................................... 289

365........ Appointment of Commission members ......................................... 290

366........ Acting appointments for the member described in subparagraph 364(1)(b)(i)        290

367........ Acting appointment for the member described in subparagraph 364(1)(b)(ii) or (iii)              291

368........ Validity of actions relating to a person acting ................................ 292

369........ Remuneration and allowances ......................................................... 292

370........ Commission members may be granted leave of absence ................. 293

371........ Resignation of appointed Commission members ........................... 293

372........ Termination of appointment of appointed Commission members 293

Part 6--Meetings and resolutions                                                                              295

373........ Convening meetings ........................................................................ 295

374........ Presiding at meetings ...................................................................... 295

375........ Quorum ........................................................................................... 295

376........ Voting at meetings .......................................................................... 295

377........ Commission resolutions without meetings ..................................... 296

378........ Conduct of meetings ....................................................................... 296

379........ Commission member to disclose any interest in claims etc. ........... 296

380........ Minister may direct Commission member not to take part in consideration or review           297

381........ Commissioner to disclose other interests ....................................... 297

Part 7--Other matters                                                                                                       299

382........ Staff ................................................................................................ 299

383........ Consultants ..................................................................................... 299

384........ Delegation ....................................................................................... 299

385........ Annual report ................................................................................. 299

Chapter 10--Liabilities arising apart from this Act etc.                                300

Part 1--Preliminary                                                                                                            300

386........ Simplified outline of this Chapter .................................................. 300

387........ Interpretation .................................................................................. 300

Part 2--Liability of the Commonwealth to other actions                               301

388........ Action for damages not to lie against Commonwealth etc. in certain cases              301

389........ Choice to institute action for damages against the Commonwealth etc. for non‑economic loss               302

390........ Notice of common law claims against the Commonwealth etc. ...... 303

Part 3--Liability of third parties                                                                                  304

Division 1--Notice of common law claims against third parties         304

391........ Notice of common law claims against third parties ........................ 304

Division 2--Commission may institute proceedings or take over claims against third parties                305

392........ Application of this Division to common law claims against third parties                305

393........ Commission may make the claim or take over the claim ................ 305

394........ Commonwealth liable to pay costs of claim ................................... 306

395........ Commission may conclude claim .................................................... 306

396........ Plaintiff must sign documents as required ...................................... 306

397........ Plaintiff must do as the Commission requires ................................ 307

398........ What happens when damages are awarded ..................................... 307

Division 3--Effect of recovering damages on entitlements under this Act          309

399........ When Division applies ................................................................... 309

400........ Notifying damages .......................................................................... 309

401........ Repaying compensation paid under this Act after damages recovered 309

402........ No compensation under this Act after damages recovered ............. 310

Division 4--Payment of damages by persons to the Commonwealth 311

403........ Payment of damages by persons to the Commonwealth ............... 311

Chapter 11--Miscellaneous                                                                                          313

Part 1--Indexation                                                                                                              313

404........ Indexation of amounts .................................................................... 313

Part 2--Obtaining and giving information etc.                                                    315

405........ Power to obtain information ........................................................... 315

406........ Commission may obtain information etc. ....................................... 316

407........ Self‑incrimination ............................................................................ 318

408........ Offence for selling etc. goods provided under this Act without consent 318

409........ Giving information .......................................................................... 319

410........ Judicial notice to be taken of certain matters .................................. 319

411........ Evidence .......................................................................................... 320

412........ Providing tax file numbers .............................................................. 321

413........ How to satisfy the request under section 412 ................................ 322

414........ Compensation when request is not satisfied initially ..................... 323

Part 3--Recovering overpayments                                                                            325

Division 1--Recovery generally                                                                          325

415........ Recovery of overpayments ............................................................ 325

Division 2--Recovery of overpayments to retired persons                 326

416........ Notice to Commission of retirement of person .............................. 326

417........ Application of section 418 ............................................................. 326

418........ Commission may give a notice to the administrator of the scheme 327

419........ Commission must give a notice to the retiree ................................. 327

420........ What happens if the retiree has not received any superannuation payment in respect of his or her retirement      328

421........ Administrator must pay the amount of overpayment to the Commonwealth         329

422........ Compliance by the administrator ................................................... 329

Part 4--Appropriation                                                                                                       330

423........ Appropriation ................................................................................ 330

Part 5--Special assistance                                                                                              331

424........ Special assistance ............................................................................ 331

Part 6--General                                                                                                                    332

425........ Assignment, set‑off or attachment of compensation ...................... 332

426........ Payments to Commissioner of Taxation ........................................ 332

427........ Jurisdiction of courts with respect to extraterritorial offences ....... 333

428........ Commission may write off a debt .................................................. 333

429........ Commission may waive a debt ....................................................... 333

430........ Payment into bank account etc. ...................................................... 334

431........ Payments at person's request ........................................................ 335

432........ Trustees for persons entitled to compensation .............................. 335

433........ Powers of the trustee generally ...................................................... 336

434........ Powers of Commonwealth etc. trustee to invest trust funds ......... 337

435........ Powers of investment for non‑Commonwealth trustee .................. 337

436........ Provisions applicable on death of person ....................................... 338

437........ Amounts of compensation ............................................................. 338

438........ Service chiefs' delegation ................................................................ 338

Part 7--Regulations                                                                                                           339

439........ Regulations may modify effect of Chapter 2 and Parts 3 and 4 of Chapter 4          339

440........ Regulations ..................................................................................... 339

Notes                                                                                                                                           341


An Act to provide rehabilitation, compensation and other entitlements for veterans, members and former members of the Defence Force, and for other purposes

  

  

Notes to the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004

Note 1

The Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 as shown in this compilation comprises Act No. 51, 2004 amended as indicated in the Tables below.

The Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 was amended by the Workplace Relations Amendment (Work Choices) (Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2006 (No. 1) (SLI 2006 No. 50). The amendments are incorporated in this compilation.

The Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 was modified by the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Regulations 2004 (2004 No. 156) see Table B.

For all relevant information pertaining to application, saving or transitional provisions see Table A.

Table of Acts

Act

Number
and year

Date
of Assent

Date of commencement

Application, saving or transitional provisions

Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004

51, 2004

27 Apr 2004

Ss. 3-359,
386-440: 1 July 2004 (see Gazette 2004, No. GN22)
Remainder: Royal Assent

 

Administrative Appeals Tribunal Amendment Act 2005

38, 2005

1 Apr 2005

Schedule 1 (item 227): 16 May 2005

--

Defence Legislation Amendment Act (No. 1) 2005

121, 2005

6 Oct 2005

Schedule 5: (a)
Remainder: Royal Assent

--

Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (Statements of Principles and Other Measures) Act 2007

29, 2007

15 Mar 2007

Schedules 1-3 and Schedule 4 (items 1, 2, 5, 6, 13-31): 16 Mar 2007
Schedule 4 (items 3, 4, 7-12): (b)
Remainder: Royal Assent

Sch. 4 (items 2, 24, 27)

Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2007

54, 2007

12 Apr 2007

Schedule 1 (items 1-4, 40): 13 Apr 2007

Sch. 1 (item 40)

Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (2007 Measures No. 1) Act 2007

89, 2007

21 June 2007

Schedule 2: 22 June 2007

Sch. 2 (items 3, 4)

Social Security and Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (Enhanced Allowances) Act 2008

5, 2008

20 Mar 2008

20 Mar 2008

Sch. 3 (item 36)

Statute Law Revision Act 2008

73, 2008

3 July 2008

Schedule 1 (item 34): (c)

--

Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (International Agreements and Other Measures) Act 2008

81, 2008

12 July 2008

Schedule 3 (items 1-7): 13 July 2008
Schedule 3 (item 8): (d)

Sch. 3 (items 4, 7)

Same‑Sex Relationships (Equal Treatment in Commonwealth Laws--General Law Reform) Act 2008

144, 2008

9 Dec 2008

Schedule 15 (items 33-46): 1 July 2009

--

Fair Work (State Referral and Consequential and Other Amendments) Act 2009

54, 2009

25 June 2009

Schedule 19: (e)

--

Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (Budget Measures) Act 2009

80, 2009

10 Sept 2009

Schedule 1 (items 1, 2): 11 Sept 2009

--

Veterans' Affairs and Other Legislation Amendment (Pension Reform) Act 2009

81, 2009

10 Sept 2009

Schedule 4 (items 16-53, 214): 20 Sept 2009
Schedule 4 (items 68-78): (f)

Sch. 4 (item 214)


(a)     Subsection 2(1) (item 3) of the Defence Legislation Amendment Act (No. 1) 2005 provides as follows:

                 (1)   Each provision of this Act specified in column 1 of the table commences, or is taken to have commenced, in accordance with column 2 of the table. Any other statement in column 2 has effect according to its terms.

 

Commencement information

Column 1

Column 2

Column 3

Provision(s)

Commencement

Date/Details

3.  Schedule 5

Immediately after the commencement of section 3 of the Legislative Instruments Act 2003.

1 January 2005

(b)    Subsection 2(1) (items 4 and 6) of the Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (Statements of Principles and Other Measures) Act 2007 provides as follows:

                 (1)   Each provision of this Act specified in column 1 of the table commences, or is taken to have commenced, in accordance with column 2 of the table. Any other statement in column 2 has effect according to its terms.

 

Provision(s)

Commencement

Date/Details

4.  Schedule 4, items 3 and 4

Immediately after the commencement of section 189 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004.

1 July 2004

6.  Schedule 4, items 7 to 12

Immediately after the commencement of section 189 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004.

1 July 2004

(c)     Subsection 2(1) (item 24) of the Statute Law Revision Act 2008 provides as follows:

                 (1)   Each provision of this Act specified in column 1 of the table commences, or is taken to have commenced, in accordance with column 2 of the table. Any other statement in column 2 has effect according to its terms.

 

Provision(s)

Commencement

Date/Details

24.  Schedule 1, item 34

Immediately after the commencement of section 123 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004.

1 July 2004

(d)     Subsection 2(1) (item 10) of the Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (International Agreements and Other Measures) Act 2008 provides as follows:

                 (1)   Each provision of this Act specified in column 1 of the table commences, or is taken to have commenced, in accordance with column 2 of the table. Any other statement in column 2 has effect according to its terms.

 

Provision(s)

Commencement

Date/Details

10.  Schedule 3, Part 5

Immediately after the commencement of item 22 of Schedule 4 to the Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (Statements of Principles and Other Measures) Act 2007.

16 March 2007

(e)     Subsection 2(1) (item 42) of the Fair Work (State Referral and Consequential and Other Amendments) Act 2009 provides as follows:

                 (1)   Each provision of this Act specified in column 1 of the table commences, or is taken to have commenced, in accordance with column 2 of the table. Any other statement in column 2 has effect according to its terms.

 

Provision(s)

Commencement

Date/Details

42.  Schedule 19

Immediately after the commencement of Part 2‑4 of the Fair Work Act 2009.

1 July 2009 (see F2009L02563)

(f)      Subsection 2(1) (item 9) of the Veterans' Affairs and Other Legislation Amendment (Pension Reform) Act 2009 provides as follows:

                 (1)   Each provision of this Act specified in column 1 of the table commences, or is taken to have commenced, in accordance with column 2 of the table. Any other statement in column 2 has effect according to its terms.

 

Provision(s)

Commencement

Date/Details

9.  Schedule 4, items 54 to 111

Immediately after the commencement of Schedule 4 to the Social Security and Other Legislation Amendment (Pension Reform and Other 2009 Budget Measures) Act 2009.

20 September 2009


Table of Amendments

ad. = added or inserted     am. = amended       rep. = repealed      rs. = repealed and substituted

Provision affected

How affected

Chapter 1

 

S. 3....................................

am. No. 81, 2009

S. 5....................................

am. Nos. 81 and 144, 2008; No. 81, 2009

S. 15..................................

am. No. 144, 2008

S. 16..................................

rs. No. 144, 2008

S. 18..................................

am. No. 144, 2008

Chapter 2

 

Part 3

 

S. 29..................................

am. No. 89, 2007

Part 4

 

S. 32..................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Chapter 4

 

Part 2

 

S. 80..................................

am. No. 144, 2008

Part 3

 

Division 1

 

Note 1 to s. 89(3)...............

rs. No. 54, 2009

Division 2

 

S. 91..................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Division 3

 

Subdivision C

 

S. 96..................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Part 4

 

Division 1

 

S. 120................................

am. No. 29, 2007

S. 121................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Division 2

 

Subdivision A

 

S. 123................................

am. No. 73, 2008

Subdivision C

 

Note 1 to s. 132(2).............

rs. No. 54, 2009

Division 5

 

Subdivision C

 

S. 154................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Division 6

 

S. 161................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Part 5

 

Division 2

 

S. 178................................

am. No. 54, 2009

Heading to s. 179...............

am. No. 54, 2009

S. 179................................

am. SLI 2006 No. 50; No. 54, 2009

Division 3

 

S. 185................................

am. SLI 2006 No. 50; No. 54, 2009

S. 189................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Division 4

 

S. 193................................

am. SLI 2006 No. 50; No. 54, 2009

Division 5

 

S. 196................................

am. No. 81, 2008

Part 6

 

S. 204................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Part 7

 

Division 4

 

Heading to Div. 4................
of Part 7 of Chapt. 4

rs. No. 81, 2009

S. 220A..............................

ad. No. 5, 2008

 

rep. No. 81, 2009

Heading to s. 221...............

am. No. 81, 2009

S. 221................................

am. No. 81, 2009

Note to s. 221(1)................

am. No. 81, 2009

Note to s. 221(2)................

am. No. 81, 2009

Heading to s. 222...............

am. No. 81, 2009

Subhead. to s. 222(3)........

am. No. 81, 2009

S. 222................................

am. No. 5, 2008; No. 81, 2009

S. 223................................

rs. No. 5, 2008; No. 81, 2009

S. 223A..............................

ad. No. 5, 2008

 

rep. No. 81, 2009

S. 224................................

am. No. 5, 2008

 

rs. No. 81, 2009

S. 225................................

rep. No. 81, 2009

Division 5

 

S. 228................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Chapter 5

 

Part 2

 

Division 2

 

S. 234................................

am. No. 81, 2008

S. 237................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Division 5

 

Heading to Div. 5................
of Part 2 of Chapt. 5

rs. No. 81, 2009

S. 244A..............................

ad. No. 5, 2008

 

rep. No. 81, 2009

Heading to s. 245...............

am. No. 81, 2009

S. 245................................

am. No. 81, 2009

Note to s. 245....................

am. No. 81, 2009

Heading to s. 246...............

am. No. 81, 2009

Subhead. to s. 246(3)........

am. No. 81, 2009

S. 246................................

am. No. 5, 2008; No. 81, 2009

S. 247................................

rs. No. 5, 2008; No. 81, 2009

S. 247A..............................

ad. No. 5, 2008

 

rep. No. 81, 2009

S. 248................................

am. No. 5, 2008

 

rs. No. 81, 2009

S. 249................................

rep. No. 81, 2009

Part 3

 

Division 3

 

S. 254................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Division 5

 

S. 257................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Part 5

 

S. 267................................

am. No. 54, 2007

Note to s. 267(1)................

rep. No. 54, 2007

Chapter 6

 

Part 1

 

S. 269................................

am. No. 81, 2009

Part 3

 

Division 1

 

S. 278................................

am. No. 81, 2009

Division 4

 

Subhead. to s. 286(1)........

am. No. 121, 2005

Subhead. to s. 286(4)........

am. No. 121, 2005

S. 286................................

am. No. 121, 2005

Part 4

 

Division 2

 

S. 293................................

am. No. 121, 2005

Division 4

 

Heading to Div. 4................
of Part 4 of Chapt. 6

rs. No. 81, 2009

Heading to s. 300...............

am. No. 81, 2009

S. 300................................

am. No. 81, 2009

Note to s. 300....................

am. No. 81, 2009

Heading to s. 301...............

am. No. 81, 2009

S. 301................................

am. No. 81, 2009

Heading to s. 302...............

am. No. 81, 2009

S. 302................................

am. No. 81, 2009

Heading to s. 303...............

am. No. 81, 2009

S. 303................................

am. No. 81, 2009

Note to s. 303....................

am. No. 81, 2009

Chapter 7

 

Part 1

 

Division 2

 

S. 320................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Heading to s. 322...............

am. No. 81, 2008

Subhead. to s. 322(1)........

ad. No. 81, 2008

S. 322................................

am. No. 81, 2008

Division 3

 

Subdivision B

 

S. 327................................

am. No. 29, 2007; No. 81, 2008

Part 2

 

S. 337................................

am. No. 89, 2007

Chapter 8

 

Part 4

 

S. 353................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Part 5

 

S. 355................................

am. No. 38, 2005

Chapter 9

 

Part 7

 

S. 384................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Chapter 10

 

Part 2

 

S. 388................................

am. No. 81, 2009

Part 3

 

Division 2

 

S. 398................................

am. No. 81, 2009

Division 3

 

Ss. 401, 402......................

am. No. 81, 2009

Division 4

 

S. 403................................

am. No. 81, 2009

Chapter 11

 

Part 1

 

S. 404................................

am. No. 54, 2007

Part 4

 

S. 423................................

am. No. 29, 2007

Part 6

 

S. 430................................

am. No. 80, 2009

S. 433................................

am. No. 144, 2008


Table A

Application, saving or transitional provisions

Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (Statements of Principles and Other Measures) Act 2007 (No. 29, 2007)

Schedule 4

2  Application of item 1

The amendment made by item 1 applies in respect of claims for acceptance of liability that are made under section 319 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 on or after the commencement of this item.

24  Application of items 22 and 23

The amendments made by items 22 and 23 apply in respect of claims that are made under section 319 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 on or after the commencement of this item.

27  Application of items 25 and 26

The amendments made by items 25 and 26 apply in respect of applications for review that are made under section 352 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 on or after the commencement of this item.

 

Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2007 (No. 54, 2007)

Schedule 1

40  Maximum amount of funeral benefit under section 267

Section 267 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004, as amended by this Schedule, applies to an amount of compensation in relation to a person who dies on or after the day after this Act receives the Royal Assent.

 

Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (2007 Measures No. 1) Act 2007 (No. 89, 2007)

Schedule 2

36  Telephone allowance under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004

3  Application--item 1

Subsections 29(1) and (2) of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 as amended by item 1 of this Schedule apply in relation to an injury sustained, or disease contracted, before, on or after the commencement of that item.

4  Application--item 2

The amendment made by item 2 of this Schedule applies in relation to a matter that is, or might be, relevant to the determination of a claim made on or after the commencement of that item.

 

Social Security and Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (Enhanced Allowances) Act 2008 (No. 5, 2008)

Schedule 3

36  Telephone allowance under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004

(1)        If, immediately before the commencement of this item, telephone allowance is payable to a person under Division 4 of Part 7 of Chapter 4 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 in relation to a telephone connection, the person is taken to have given notice, in relation to that telephone connection, in accordance with subsection 222(4) of that Act (as amended by this Schedule).

(2)        If, immediately before the commencement of this item, telephone allowance is payable to a person under Division 5 of Part 2 of Chapter 5 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 in relation to a telephone connection, the person is taken to have given notice, in relation to that telephone connection, in accordance with subsection 246(4) of that Act (as amended by this Schedule).

 

Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (International Agreements and Other Measures) Act 2008 (No. 81, 2008)

Schedule 3

4  Waiver of earlier overpayments

If:

                     (a)  before the commencement of this Part, an amount of compensation was paid as if the amendment made by this Part had already commenced; and

                     (b)  that amount exceeded the amount of compensation that was payable because the amendment had not commenced; and

                     (c)  the excess would be recoverable by the Commonwealth apart from this item;

the right to recover the excess is waived.

7  Application of amendments

The amendments made by this Part apply in relation to a claim made on or after the commencement of this Part, whether a claim for compensation for the same matter has been made before, on or after that commencement.

 

Veterans' Affairs and Other Legislation Amendment (Pension Reform) Act 2009 (No. 81, 2009)

Schedule 4

214  Pharmaceutical allowance and telephone allowance under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act

(1)        Despite the amendments of Division 4 of Part 7 of Chapter 4, and of Division 5 of Part 2 of Chapter 5, of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 made by this Schedule, those Divisions, as in force immediately before the commencement of this item, continue to apply on and after that commencement in relation to the first telephone allowance payday that falls after 20 September 2009.

(2)        For the purposes of subitem (1), section 198F of the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986, as in force immediately before the commencement of this item, applies in relation to 20 September 2009.

(3)        Despite the amendments of Division 4 of Part 4 of Chapter 6 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 made by this Schedule, that Division, as in force immediately before the commencement of this item, continues to apply on and after that commencement in relation to days occurring before 20 September 2009.

(4)        Despite the amendments made by items 65, 66 and 67, table items 10 and 20 in section 52‑114 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (as in force immediately before the commencement of this item) continue to apply on and after that commencement in relation to payments of telephone allowance or pharmaceutical allowance made before, on or after that commencement.

(5)        Sections 388, 398, 401, 402 and 403 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 apply on and after the commencement of this item as if a reference in those sections to MRCA supplement included a reference to telephone allowance.

(6)        Despite the amendment made by item 98, subsection 1061JD(2) of the Social Security Act 1991 (as in force immediately before the commencement of that item) continues to apply on and after that commencement in relation to payments of pharmaceutical allowance made under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 before, on or after that commencement.

(7)        Despite the amendment made by item 160, paragraph 5H(8)(zt) of the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 (as in force immediately before the commencement of that item) continues to apply on and after that commencement in relation to a payment mentioned in that paragraph made before, on or after that commencement.


Table B

Modifications

Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Regulations 2004

Schedule 1

1              After subsection 32 (5)

insert

         (6)   This section does not apply to a serious default or wilful act of a cadet under 16.

2              After subsection 34 (4)

insert

         (5)   This section does not apply to a wilful and false representation of a cadet under 16.

3              After subsection 35 (5)

insert

         (6)   Subsections (3), (4) and (5) do not apply to a cadet who, at the time of the injury, disease, death, aggravation or material contribution, was:

                (a)    under 18; and

               (b)    under the supervision of a parent of the cadet, or a responsible adult.