Statements of Principles
We use Statements of Principles (also called SOPs) to figure out if certain conditions can be related to Qualifying Service.
Statements of Principles are a decision-making tool
We use Statements of Principles to establish if a medical condition can be linked to the unique circumstances of a person's qualifying service.
Each Statement of Principles consists of clear eligibility criteria for the condition it covers. Using Statements of Principles ensures objective and consistent decision making.
There are two types of Statements of Principles:
- a Reasonable Hypothesis, for when the condition is presumed to be connected to Qualifying Operational Service.
- a Balance of Probabilities, for when the condition is presumed to be connected to Qualifying Routine Service.
How we use Statements of Principles in our decision-making process
Statements of Principles in New Zealand
Statements of Principles are made under Australian legislation. A list of Statements of Principles in effect in Australia can be found on the Australian Government's Repatriation Medical Authority website.
Statements of Principles on the Repatriation Medical Authority website(external link)
As a foreign legislative tool, Statements of Principles are not automatically adopted in New Zealand. Their adoption in New Zealand is governed by sections 22 to 24 of the Veterans' Support Act 2014. The adoption process results in a delay between Statements of Principles being introduced or amended in Australia, and in turn being introduced or amended in New Zealand.
Conditions we cover
- Conclusively presumed conditions
- Paired organs
- Service-related presumptions
- Statements of Principles