Where a person's only injuries resulting from the accident are threshold injuries, weekly benefits and treatment and care generally cease after 52 weeks (ss 3.11 and 3.28).
If you've suffered hearing loss from acoustic trauma in a motor accident in Newcastle or Hunter, you may be eligible for treatment funding under NSW's Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme. This article explains how CTP claims cover medical costs for hearing loss caused by airbag deployment, crash forces or other trauma. It outlines the practical steps to secure funding, referencing SIRA guidelines and local service details.
What CTP Covers for Hearing Loss Treatment
Under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017, CTP claims in NSW cover treatment costs for injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents. For hearing loss from acoustic trauma, this includes:
- Audiology assessments and diagnostic testing
- Hearing aid purchases and fitting
- Specialist ear, nose and throat (ENT) consultations
- Rehabilitation services for auditory processing disorders
SIRA guidelines confirm that treatment must be 'reasonably necessary' and directly related to the accident. For example, a 2023 case in Newcastle saw a claimant funded for a cochlear implant following trauma from a car airbag deployment.
Applying for Funding in Newcastle and Hunter
Claimants in the Newcastle and Hunter region should:
- Obtain medical records documenting the acoustic trauma and its link to the accident
- Submit a completed CTP claim form through SIRA's online portal
- Provide evidence of treatment costs, such as invoices from audiologists or ENT specialists
- Include a statement from your treating physician confirming the treatment's necessity
SIRA offices in Newcastle and Hunter handle claims under the same rules as other NSW regions. However, local claimants should note that treatment costs for hearing loss are generally limited to 52 weeks unless a permanent impairment is established.
Key SIRA Guidelines for Acoustic Trauma Claims
SIRA's Motor Accident Guidelines specify that:
- Acoustic trauma must produce measurable hearing loss (typically 25dB or more)
- Treatment must be provided by a registered medical practitioner
- Claims for hearing aids must demonstrate a direct link to the accident
- Rehabilitation costs are only funded if they prevent long-term functional impairment
A 2025 Newcastle case highlighted that claims for noise-induced hearing loss from a car crash were successful when supported by:
- Police accident report detailing airbag deployment
- Audiologist report showing pre- and post-accident hearing thresholds
- Medical opinion linking the trauma to the accident
Practical Steps for Claimants
To secure funding for hearing loss treatment:
- Document all treatment costs with itemised invoices
- Keep records of how the acoustic trauma affected your daily life
- Seek a second opinion if your initial treatment plan is disputed
- Submit claims within 52 weeks of the accident unless you can prove permanent impairment
Claimants should also be aware that CTP funding for hearing loss is subject to the same 52-week limit as other soft tissue injuries. If your condition is not resolved within this period, you may need to pursue a separate claim for permanent impairment.
When to Seek Legal Advice
While many claimants can manage their CTP claim independently, legal assistance is recommended if:
- Your treatment costs exceed the 52-week funding limit
- You face disputes from the at-fault driver's insurer
- You need help proving the link between the accident and your hearing loss
- You want to pursue additional compensation for long-term effects
The NSW CTP scheme provides a clear pathway for funding hearing loss treatment, but claimants must act promptly and provide detailed evidence. For personalised guidance on your specific circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.
Next Steps for Claimants
If you're experiencing hearing loss from a motor accident in Newcastle or Hunter, take these actions:
- Visit your GP or audiologist to document the injury
- Gather evidence of the accident and its impact
- Submit a CTP claim through SIRA's online portal
- Seek legal advice if your claim is denied or disputed
Remember, every claim depends on its own facts. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.