The definition of 'experiencing a severe stressor' in Statements of Principles under the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 (Cth) does not require an actual, objectively verified threat of death or serious injury. The test extends to events that, judged from the point of view of a reasonable person in the position of the veteran experiencing them, were capable of conveying and did convey the risk of death or serious injury. Events that are objectively routine or neutral in character may satisfy this definition. Where a tribunal has applied the wrong legal test and has not made findings through the correct legal prism, remittal is appropriate unless the factual material is so decisive that only one conclusion is possible.
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