Vehicle Assistance Scheme moves to the MRCA
Since 1 July 2026, the Vehicle Assistance Scheme (VAS) under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA) has no longer accepted new applications. The Department of Veterans’ Affairs has confirmed that vehicle assistance for veterans whose service-related injuries severely limit their mobility is now provided through the Motor Vehicle Compensation Scheme (MVCS), which sits under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA). In practice, any veteran seeking vehicle support for the first time must now lodge a claim under the MRCA rather than going through the old VAS process.
If you’re already receiving VAS support, you have a choice. You can stay under your existing VAS arrangements or move across to the MRCA, provided you meet that scheme’s criteria.
What VAS covers
- Replacement vehicle assistance: up to $19,905 towards a replacement car after two years, paid directly to the supplier. This is on top of the trade-in or market value of your current VAS vehicle.
- Running and maintenance allowance: $3,086.20 a year, to help with registration, insurance and other running costs.
- Modifications and driving devices: further help may be available for modifications and driving devices for a VAS vehicle.
Who is excluded from VAS
- Veterans who receive DVA’s Recreation Transport Allowance or Centrelink’s Mobility Allowance cannot receive VAS support.
- Veterans who could pursue a compensation claim under any other Territory, State or Commonwealth scheme are not eligible for VAS.
Context
Closing VAS to new claims is a significant change in how vehicle support is handled for veterans with service-related mobility impairments. From now on, the MRCA is the main pathway, while the older VEA-based VAS remains open only to existing recipients who choose to stay with it.
Related: New Veterans’ and Families’ Hub Opens in Rockingham
General information only, not legal advice. Check the official source before acting.
Source: Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
