What travel and accommodation costs are covered under NSW CTP claims after the 2017 reforms?
Under the NSW Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 (MAIA), travel and accommodation costs for CTP claims now include reasonable expenses incurred to attend medical appointments and overnight stays required for treatment. The 2017 reforms expanded coverage to ensure injured motorists in Western Sydney and other regions can claim costs like taxi fares, public transport tickets, and hotel bills for necessary overnight care.
Previously, under the Motor Accidents Compensation Act 1999 (MACA), travel costs were limited to 'reasonable' expenses, but the 2017 reforms clarified that all reasonable travel costs, including those for specialist appointments, are now covered. Accommodation is also included if overnight stays are medically necessary, such as for post-surgery recovery or specialist treatment.
How have the 2017 reforms impacted claims in Western Sydney?
The reforms introduced by the NSW government in 2017 shifted the focus to 'reasonable' rather than 'necessary' travel and accommodation costs. For example, a claimant in Western Sydney who needs to travel 50km for a specialist MRI scan can now claim the full cost of a taxi or bus fare, whereas previously such costs might have been disputed.
A key change is the inclusion of 'reasonable' travel costs for all treatment-related appointments, not just emergency care. This means claimants can now claim expenses like:
- Taxi or ride-share fares to and from medical appointments
- Public transport tickets for travel to specialist clinics
- Hotel accommodation for overnight stays required by treatment plans
What evidence is needed to support travel and accommodation claims?
To claim travel and accommodation costs under the updated CTP scheme, claimants must provide:
- Medical records confirming the need for travel or overnight stays
- Receipts or invoices for travel expenses (e.g., taxi receipts, bus tickets, hotel bills)
- A statement from a medical practitioner explaining the necessity of the travel or accommodation
- Proof of the date and location of the medical appointment
For example, if a claimant in Western Sydney needs to travel to a specialist in Sydney CBD for a treatment, they must provide a medical report stating the necessity of the trip and evidence of the travel cost.
Practical steps for claimants in Western Sydney
- Document all travel and accommodation expenses immediately after the accident, including receipts and medical records.
- Notify your insurer about the need for travel and accommodation costs as part of your claim.
- Keep records of all correspondence with the insurer, including dates and details of any disputes.
- Seek medical advice promptly to establish the necessity of travel or accommodation.
When to seek legal advice
If your claim is denied or you face disputes over the reasonableness of your travel or accommodation costs, consider consulting a legal professional. The 2017 reforms do not automatically guarantee coverage of all expenses, and claimants must prove the necessity of each cost.
Next steps
Time limits and procedural requirements may apply. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.