How legacy MAC Act claims cover treatment costs in regional NSW
If you were injured in a motor vehicle accident before 1 January 2018, you may be eligible for treatment cost funding under the now-repealed Motor Accident Claims Act 1999 (MAC Act). While the current Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 governs most claims, legacy MAC Act claims still apply to accidents occurring before the new scheme began. This article explains how regional NSW residents can access funding for treatment costs under the MAC Act framework.
What treatment costs are covered under MAC Act legacy claims?
Under the MAC Act, claimants could seek funding for medical treatment costs directly related to the accident. This includes:
- Hospital bills and specialist consultations
- Physiotherapy, occupational therapy and psychology sessions
- Medications and medical devices
- Transportation to and from treatment
- Home modifications to accommodate injuries
The SIRA guidelines specify that treatment must be 'reasonably necessary' and 'directly related' to the accident. For example, a broken leg treated with a cast would qualify, but elective procedures unrelated to the accident would not.
How regional NSW claimants access treatment cost funding
Residents in regional NSW face unique challenges accessing healthcare services. Under the MAC Act, claimants could request funding for:
- Travel costs to specialist clinics in metro areas
- Home care services for those unable to travel
- Transportation for family members accompanying injured claimants
Claimants must submit detailed medical records and treatment cost estimates to the NSW Government's Motor Accident Claims Authority (SIRA). Regional claimants may need to provide additional evidence of local healthcare limitations, such as:
- Proof of distance to the nearest specialist
- Evidence of limited transport options
- Statements from local GPs about treatment availability
Key differences in processing legacy claims
Legacy MAC Act claims differ from current CTP claims in several ways:
- Funding limits: While the current scheme has a 52-week limit for certain benefits, MAC Act claims have different timeframes depending on injury type
- Dispute resolution: Legacy claims are processed under the old scheme's rules, which may include different evidentiary standards
- Regional adjustments: SIRA has acknowledged that regional claimants may require additional support to access treatment
Practical steps for regional claimants
To claim treatment cost funding under the MAC Act:
- Gather all medical records and treatment cost estimates
- Contact SIRA to confirm your claim is within the MAC Act timeframe
- Submit a detailed claim form with your medical evidence
- Request a review if your claim is denied
Regional claimants should also consider:
- Consulting local GPs about treatment options
- Exploring telehealth services where available
- Keeping records of all treatment-related expenses
When to seek legal advice
The MAC Act's complex rules mean claimants should seek legal advice if:
- Your accident occurred before 1 January 2018
- You're unsure if your treatment costs qualify
- You've been denied a claim
- You need help navigating regional healthcare access issues
Time limits apply to all claims, so it's important to act promptly. While the MAC Act is no longer in force, legacy claims are still being processed under the old scheme's rules.
Next steps
Every claim depends on its own facts. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.