Review or appeal a decision
If we’ve made a decision that you don’t agree with, you can request a formal review.
When you can ask for a review
You can ask for a review if:
- we’ve made a decision that you don't agree with, or
- you're unhappy with the level of service you are or are not getting.
A decision could include:
- if your service is Qualifying Service
- if an illness or injury is related to Qualifying Service
- if you qualify for support
- what level of impairment applies to you.
How to ask for a review
You must submit an application for review within 6 months of being notified of the decision. We'll only accept a late application if there's a very good reason for the delay.
1. Talk to us first
We'll explain why the decision was made and can put things right if there's been a mistake. We may be able to resolve things without you having to go through a formal review.
2. Ask for a review of decision
If you're still unhappy, you can ask for a review of decision.
- Download the Review of Decision application form.
- Send the application form and any supporting information to us.
Review of decision application form [PDF, 351 KB]
What happens
Your review will be considered by a Review Officer unless it is about whether you having Qualifying Service. If this is the case, your review will be considered by a Veterans' Service Review Panel.
If you disagree with the outcome of a review of decision you can appeal to Veterans' Entitlement Appeal Board.
How to appeal a decision
You must submit an application to appeal within 6 months of the review decision.
To submit an application to appeal:
- Download the Review of Decision application form.
- Send the application form and any supporting information to us.
Appeal Against Review Decision application form [PDF, 397 KB]
What happens
Your appeal is handled by the Veterans’ Entitlements Appeal Board.
More about the Veterans’ Entitlements Appeal Board
You can attend the appeal hearing—either in person or by video/teleconference.
We'll pay the cost of travel for you to attend the hearing, as long as the travel is within NZ and is reasonable.
You can also have a representative at the hearing. This must be agreed to by the appeal board in advance. We can't cover any costs for a representative to attend.
If you still disagree
If you disagree with the outcome you can appeal to the High Court of New Zealand.