AustraliaI was injured during military training. Does the standard workers comp scheme or MRCA apply?
If you were injured during military training as a member of the Australian Defence Force, the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA) applies — not state or territory workers’ compensation schemes.
What the Law Says
The Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA) is the exclusive compensation scheme for current and former members of the Australian Defence Force who suffer injuries or diseases related to their service — including during training. It replaces state and territory workers’ compensation laws for ADF members.
The MRCA applies to all members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), including full-time, part-time, reservists, and cadets, when injured or made ill in the course of their service — which explicitly includes training, exercises, and duties authorised by the Defence Force.
Under the MRCA, compensation is provided on a 'no-fault' basis: you do not need to prove negligence or employer liability to be eligible for benefits.
The Act provides comprehensive support including medical treatment, rehabilitation, income support, permanent impairment compensation, and dependant benefits — all administered by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).
Statutory TextThis Act provides for the rehabilitation and compensation of members and former members of the Defence Force in respect of injuries and diseases that are related to their service.
— Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004, s. 3 — Objects
Statutory TextA person has an injury if the person sustains a personal injury, including a disease, that is suffered in the course of the person’s service.
— Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004, s. 5 — Definitions
What to Do
Contact the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) immediately — call 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) or visit veterans.gov.au
Lodge a claim within 6 months of becoming aware of the injury or its connection to service (though late claims may still be accepted)
Provide evidence such as service records, medical reports, and witness statements
Attend DVA-assigned medical assessments and rehabilitation planning meetings
Seek free advice from an ex-service organisation (e.g., RSL, Legacy) or DVA-funded legal assistance provider
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.