If your child was injured in a motor accident in NSW, the Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme may cover their medical treatment costs. This article explains how the NSW government funds treatment for children, what evidence is needed, and regional considerations in Newcastle and Hunter.
How SIRA Funds Medical Treatment for Child Injuries
The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) administers NSW CTP claims. Under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017, treatment costs are funded through two main pathways:
- Statutory benefits - Weekly income payments and treatment and care benefits cover medical expenses, including therapies, medications, and specialist consultations.
- Claimed treatment costs - You can submit receipts for specific treatments, such as physiotherapy or scans, to be reimbursed directly.
SIRA assesses whether treatment is 'reasonably necessary' based on medical reports. For children, this often includes paediatric assessments, developmental therapy, or orthopaedic care.
Evidence Required for Child Injury Claims
To secure funding, you must provide:
- Medical records - Detailed reports from doctors, physiotherapists, or psychologists confirming the injury and treatment plan.
- Accident details - Police reports, witness statements, and photos of the scene.
- Receipts and invoices - For treatments like scans, therapy sessions, or medical equipment.
- Income evidence - Proof of your child’s pre-accident income if claiming weekly benefits.
For example, if your child needs 12 weeks of physiotherapy, you’d need a doctor’s note confirming the necessity and itemised receipts for each session.
Regional Processing in Newcastle and Hunter
While SIRA applies statewide, regional offices in Newcastle and Hunter may have different processing times or localised practices. Claims in these areas often involve:
- Higher volumes of claims due to busy roads.
- More frequent use of private clinics for paediatric care.
- SIRA officers with local knowledge of regional healthcare providers.
You should contact the Newcastle or Hunter SIRA office directly to confirm processing timelines and submit claims promptly. Delays can affect access to treatment.
Time Limits and When to Seek Advice
You have 52 weeks from the accident date to claim statutory benefits for threshold injuries. After this period, benefits are generally limited unless the injury meets the 'whole person impairment' threshold. For non-threshold injuries, you must notify SIRA within 12 months.
If your child’s injuries are severe or treatment is ongoing, seek legal advice before the 52-week mark. Specialist solicitors can help navigate disputes over treatment necessity or funding delays.
Next Steps
CTP funding for children depends on the injury type, evidence quality, and claim timing. To request a free assessment of your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.