The Legislative Assembly has approved a new Motor Accident Injuries Scheme which promises Canberrans injured on the roads fairer, faster and more comprehensive entitlements and treatment.
Chief Minister, Andrew Barr said everyone injured in a motor vehicle accident would now be entitled to receive treatment, care and lost income benefits for up to five years — no matter who was at fault.
“People who are more seriously injured will continue to be able to make a claim for further compensation through common law,” Mr Barr said.
“This will mean about 600 more Canberrans each year will be covered by the scheme than under the current arrangements.
‘This 40 per cent increase in coverage delivers a better and fairer scheme for people when the worst happens.”
He said the reform was developed through Canberra’s first citizens’ jury, beginning in 2017.
“Through the jury process, 50 locals were asked to determine what the objectives should be for an improved scheme and how we could better protect Canberrans on our roads,” Mr Barr said.
He said the goals set by the jury included fair coverage for all road users; equitable access to treatment and care for people who were injured; quick and transparent benefits to get recovery under way as soon as possible, and comprehensive and continuing support for those who needed it most.
He said the new scheme is expected to begin on 1 February 2020 with people injured in a motor vehicle accident before thAT date continuing to have their matters dealt with under the existing Compulsory Third Party (CTP) arrangements.
Mr Barr said the current arrangement would also continue to apply for those who have CTP matters in train on the transition date.
