Notice of Investigation – Cardiomyopathy – Focused

Overview

The Repatriation Medical Authority, under section 196G of the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986, has issued a notice of investigation concerning the potential causal relationship between infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), also known as COVID-19, and cardiomyopathy. This investigation is being conducted in the context of Statements of Principles Instrument Nos. 57 and 58 of 2024. The Authority aims to explore whether COVID-19 could be a causal factor for cardiomyopathy, addressing a gap in the understanding of long-term health effects resulting from the virus, particularly for veterans. The Authority is inviting submissions from eligible claimants, representative organisations, relevant commissions, and experts to provide insights and information to inform this investigation. Submissions are due by 28 January 2025, and can be made electronically via the RMA website, by email, or by post, with the first meeting scheduled for 4 February 2025.

Scope and Application

The Repatriation Medical Authority (the Authority) has issued a notice of an investigation under section 196G of the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986, concerning the potential causal relationship between infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (COVID-19) and cardiomyopathy, as outlined in Statements of Principles Instrument Nos. 57 and 58 of 2024. This investigation applies to individuals eligible to make claims for pension or compensation under the VEA or the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004, organisations representing various military personnel and their dependents, and experts in relevant fields. The investigation's geographic reach is national, and it invites submissions from the specified groups and individuals with relevant expertise. Submissions must be made in writing and received by the Authority no later than 28 January 2025, either electronically through the RMA website, by email, or by post. The Authority will hold its first meeting on 4 February 2025, and further details, including submission guidelines, can be found on the RMA website or by contacting the RMA Secretariat.

Key Provisions

The Repatriation Medical Authority (the Authority) has announced an investigation under section 196G of the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA) concerning the potential link between infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (COVID-19) and cardiomyopathy (section 196B(7) and 196B(7A)). This investigation is being conducted in relation to Statements of Principles Instrument Nos. 57 and 58 of 2024. The Authority seeks written submissions from eligible individuals and organisations, including those eligible for pension claims under the VEA, compensation claims under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA), and representatives of veterans or members of various forces. The initial meeting for this investigation is scheduled for 4 February 2025, and all submissions must be received by the Authority no later than 28 January 2025. The Authority imposes certain obligations on those making submissions. Submissions must be in writing and can be made electronically through the RMA website, by email, or by post. The RMA Submission Guidelines are available online for guidance, and the RMA Secretariat can be contacted for further assistance. The Authority specifically invites submissions from individuals with relevant expertise and organisations representing veterans or members of various forces. Breaches of the requirements for making submissions could result in administrative consequences. However, the Act does not explicitly state civil or criminal penalties for failing to comply with the submission requirements. The primary focus of the notice is to ensure that the investigation is comprehensive and informed by relevant expertise and stakeholder input.