What this instrument is
The Repatriation Medical Authority has registered a new Statement of Principles concerning immersion pulmonary oedema (Reasonable Hypothesis) (No. 62 of 2026) under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004. Immersion pulmonary oedema is a lung condition caused by being submerged in water.
What the instrument does
The Statement of Principles sets out the medical and service-related factors that the Repatriation Medical Authority requires to be present for a veteran or defence member to claim compensation for immersion pulmonary oedema. This is the Reasonable Hypothesis version of the instrument, which governs how compensation claims for this specific condition are assessed.
Effective date
The instrument came into force on 8 September 2026.
Scope
The source summary states this instrument does not affect civilian businesses or their obligations. It relates to the assessment of veterans' compensation claims for immersion pulmonary oedema.
Key actions
- The governing factors for immersion pulmonary oedema compensation claims changed on 8 September 2026. The full instrument is available at https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2026L01176.
- Bookkeepers or advisers supporting veterans' entitlements claims are required to check the updated Statement of Principles at the above URL to confirm the current factors required under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004.
This is a plain-English summary for information only, not legal or compliance advice. Always check the official source or consult a qualified professional.