How SIRA Assesses Hearing Loss Claims Caused by Acoustic Trauma
A threshold injury under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 (NSW) includes a soft tissue injury and a psychological or psychiatric injury that is not a recognised psychiatric illness (adjustment disorder and acute stress disorder are the usual examples; s 1.6 and Motor Accident Guidelines Part 5).
If you've suffered hearing loss from acoustic trauma in a motor accident, SIRA (State Insurance Regulatory Authority) determines your eligibility for compensation under NSW's Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme. Acoustic trauma refers to injuries caused by intense noise, such as from car crashes, airbags or loud explosions. SIRA evaluates whether your injury meets the scheme's criteria for 'threshold injury' or 'whole person impairment' under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017.
Key SIRA Rules for Hearing Loss Claims
SIRA defines acoustic trauma as damage to the ear caused by sudden, intense sound. This includes injuries like ruptured eardrums, sensorineural hearing loss or damage to the middle ear. To qualify, your injury must result directly from the accident. SIRA requires medical evidence showing:
- A diagnosis of acoustic trauma
- A link between the injury and the accident
- That the injury meets the 'threshold injury' definition in the Motor Accident Guidelines
For example, if a car crash caused your ear to rupture, your doctor must confirm this was due to the accident, not pre-existing conditions.
Evidence That Matters for Your Claim
To support your claim, gather:
- Medical records showing your injury and its cause
- Accident reports detailing noise levels or impact forces
- Witness statements about loud noises or sudden impacts
- Proof of income if your hearing loss affects your ability to work
SIRA may also request audiograms or specialist reports to assess your condition. Keep all documents organized and submit them promptly to avoid delays.
Regional Considerations in Albury
In regional areas like Albury, accessing SIRA services may require additional steps. Ensure your claim is submitted through the NSW CTP portal or contact SIRA directly. Some Albury clinics may have limited access to audiologists, so consider seeking specialist care in larger centers if needed.
Time Limits and Next Steps
You have 52 weeks from the accident date to claim benefits for 'only injuries' under the CTP scheme. After this period, weekly payments typically stop unless your injury meets the 'whole person impairment' threshold. If your claim is denied, you may request a review or seek legal advice to challenge the decision.
When to Seek Help
If your hearing loss worsens or you're unsure about your claim's validity, contact SIRA or a legal professional. They can help you understand whether your injury qualifies for compensation and guide you through the process.
Every claim depends on its own facts. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.