Due to the fact that many Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and Veterans have been exposed to extremely loud noises for extended periods of time throughout their service in the military, they have a higher likelihood of experiencing hearing related ailments, such as Tinnitus, than the majority of other Australian citizens. Tinnitus can be quite debilitating as it can interrupt sleep, reduce a Veteran’s ability to focus, and interfere with overall quality of life. Luckily, there is a support system put in place by the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) to help Veterans suffering from this physical ailment.
As a Veteran suffering from military-induced tinnitus, you are able to receive financial support from the DVA through the form of payout intended to help you obtain treatment, and to support yourself in day-to-day life. The average DVA payout for tinnitus can range greatly and depends on how your DVA claim has been filed and what support you are eligible to receive. The first step in receiving the average DVA payout for tinnitus is the initial assessment of your condition.
How is the Average DVA Payout for Tinnitus Assessed?
Under the DVA, tinnitus is required to be assessed by using the DVA’s Tinnitus Functional Index, or by visiting a qualified audiologist. The DVA Tinnitus Functional Index is translated into a permanent impairment point index, which is then used to assess the amount of financial compensation which may be awarded to a Veteran.
Using the DVA Tinnitus Functional Index, Veterans are scored between 1 to 100, which is then translated to the DVA permanent impairment rating system of 1-15. Cases rated from 1-5 on the impairment rating scale, can be classified as milder cases by the DVA, and are associated with DVA Tinnitus Functional Index scores of 0-53 . If a Veteran’s tinnitus is classified as mild under the DVA Tinnitus Functional Index the Veteran can receive support without further investigation if the assessing DVA delegate is comfortable with their case and does not receive any contrary evidence to the 1-5 impairment scale result.
However, when a Veteran goes beyond an impairment rating of 5, translated from the DVA Tinnitus Functional Index of 53-72, this is no longer the case. For cases above 1-5 impairment points that are seen as more than mild, a Veteran will be referred by their DVA delegate to an audiologist to take part in a more accurate tinnitus assessment. This audiologist will be qualified to assess and determine tinnitus severity using a set of scientifically validated questions.
How Are Tinnitus Payouts Organised?
Once a Veteran has been assessed using the DVA Tinnitus Functional Index, and has been awarded a corresponding number of permanent impairment points, they can then submit an application for financial support. The level of financial support they receive will be based on the number of permanent impairment points they have been awarded, as well as the funding scheme and legislation that their service falls under.
For ADF members or veterans who served before 2004, their tinnitus will be accepted under the Defence Rehabilitation Compensation Act, known as the DRCA, or the Veterans’ Entitlements Act, known as the VEA. For ADF members or veterans who served after 2004, their tinnitus will be accepted under the Military Rehabilitation Compensation Act, known as the MRCA.
While either payment under MRCA and the DRCA is not taxed if it’s taken as a lump sum, the DRCA lump sum payment is based on a percentage of permanent impairment and doesn’t factor in your age when assessing the amount payable. This means that any lump sum payment made under the DRCA will usually be less than that available under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act (MRCA).
Who Can Help Me With Financial Advice About My DVA Payout for Tinnitus?
Once you receive your lump sum DVA payout for tinnitus, you may be uncertain how to ensure this payment is secure and will provide you with the best future possible. This is where expert financial planning for military personnel can be of great assistance to you.
In Australia, all financial planners are bound by the ASIC Code of Ethics and obligated to remain compliant within all ASIC regulations. This code ensures financial advisors set and maintain agreed professional standards. When choosing a financial planner to help with your DVA payout for tinnitus, it would be beneficial to choose a financial planner who has experience working with and understands the ADF life. National Service Financial is a leading, accredited financial planning service founded and run by ex-ADF members, specifically to help current and ex-ADF members with their financial needs.
So, if you’re suffering from tinnitus or any other defence related issue, then let us you get what you deserve out of the DVA, so you can get back to living your life how you want to, without service injuries hanging over you.