The MRCA applies to the following categories of defence service:
- warlike service;
- non-warlike service; and
- peacetime service.
The MRCA also from 1 July 2026 recognises the old VEA service classifications of Hazardous, Peacekeeping, British Nuclear Test and Operational service. These are subject to specific declarations and are effectively treated as types of warlike or non-warlike service for MRCA compensation purposes.
The Minister for Defence determines what service constitutes warlike or non-warlike service. Service that is not the subject of such a determination is peacetime service.
For details of ADF operations determined to be warlike or non-warlike service refer to CLIK
3.1.3 Non-Warlike Service Determinations | CLIK
3.1.4 Warlike Service Determinations | CLIK
Note: The most recent determinations may be found within the Service Eligibility Assistant | CLIK