What evidence supports travel and accommodation costs in NSW CTP claims?
In New South Wales, claimants seeking compensation for travel and overnight accommodation expenses under the Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme must provide clear evidence of their costs. The New South Wales Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 and SIRA guidelines require claimants to document expenses that are directly related to medical treatment, rehabilitation or recovery. For rural and remote areas, where access to services is limited, this process can be more complex.
Key evidence for travel and accommodation claims
To support a claim for travel and accommodation costs, claimants should gather:
- Receipts or invoices for travel, accommodation and related expenses
- Medical records confirming the necessity of travel for treatment
- Travel logs detailing the purpose, date, time and destination of each trip
- Proof of distance such as maps, GPS records or odometer readings
- Witness statements from family members or healthcare professionals
- Correspondence with SIRA or insurers about treatment arrangements
In rural areas, claimants may need to provide additional evidence to prove the necessity of travel. For example, if a patient requires specialist care in a distant city, documentation of limited local healthcare options may be necessary.
Practical steps for rural/remote claimants
Claimants in remote areas should:
- Keep a detailed diary of all travel and medical appointments
- Use GPS or mapping apps to record travel distances
- Request written confirmation from healthcare providers about travel requirements
- Maintain records of communication with insurers or SIRA
- Seek independent medical opinions if there are disputes about treatment necessity
A claimant in a remote area who needed to travel 800km for specialist treatment may document their claim with:
- A taxi receipt for the trip
- A letter from their GP confirming the need for specialist care
- A travel log showing the date and purpose of the trip
- A statement from the specialist confirming the treatment was essential
Time limits and dispute resolution
Claimants must submit their claim to SIRA within five years of the accident. While there is no strict deadline for submitting evidence, delays may reduce the chances of a successful claim. If a claim is disputed, claimants can:
- Request a review of the claim through SIRA's internal process
- Seek independent expert opinions to support their case
- Consult a legal professional if the dispute involves complex medical or financial issues
When to seek legal advice
Claimants should consider seeking legal advice if:
- Their claim is being delayed or rejected
- They need help documenting complex travel arrangements
- They are unsure about the relevance of their evidence
- They face disputes about the necessity of their treatment
Next steps
CTP claims involving travel and accommodation costs require careful documentation, especially in rural areas where services are limited. While SIRA provides clear guidelines, claimants may need to take additional steps to prove the necessity of their expenses. For tailored advice on your specific circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.