What travel and accommodation costs are covered under NSW CTP claims?
Under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 (MAIA), a person who has suffered injury in a motor accident in New South Wales may be entitled to funding for travel and accommodation costs incurred while receiving treatment for that injury. This includes reasonable and necessary travel to and from medical appointments, including specialist consultations, rehabilitation sessions, and diagnostic assessments. It also covers reasonable overnight accommodation if the treatment location is more than 50 kilometres from the claimant’s home, or if the treatment requires a stay of more than one day and is not available locally.
Funding is not available for travel related to non-medical purposes, such as attending a support group not directly linked to treatment, or for travel to a different city for non-urgent reasons. The claimant must demonstrate that the travel was necessary for treatment and that the accommodation was reasonable in cost and duration. The claimant must also have made reasonable efforts to access treatment closer to home, if possible.
How are travel and accommodation costs funded under NSW CTP claims?
Funding for travel and accommodation costs is provided through the Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance scheme, which is administered by the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA). The insurer responsible for the CTP policy of the vehicle involved in the accident must assess and approve the claim for these costs.
To claim travel and accommodation expenses, the claimant must provide evidence such as: receipts for transport (e.g. fuel, tolls, public transport fares, taxi or ride-share invoices); accommodation invoices showing dates, cost, and location; and a medical certificate confirming the need for treatment at a distant location. The claimant must also keep a record of the travel dates, purpose, and distance travelled.
The insurer may require the claimant to use the most cost-effective travel option available, such as public transport instead of a private vehicle, and may only approve accommodation that is reasonable in price and standard. The claimant must not incur costs that are excessive or not directly related to treatment.
Practical steps and evidence that matter
To support a claim for travel and accommodation costs, the claimant should:
- Obtain a medical certificate from their treating practitioner stating the need for treatment at a specific location and the necessity of travel.
- Keep original or digital copies of all travel and accommodation receipts.
- Record the travel route, distance, and purpose for each journey.
- Submit the claim to the insurer as soon as possible after incurring the costs, ideally within 12 months of the accident.
- Notify the insurer if treatment is delayed or if travel plans change.
A common mistake is to assume that all travel to a medical appointment is reimbursable. Only travel that is directly related to treatment and not for personal reasons is covered. Another common error is failing to keep proper records, which can result in a claim being denied.
Time limits and dispute options
There is no fixed deadline for submitting a claim for travel and accommodation costs under the CTP scheme, but it is essential to submit claims as soon as possible after incurring the expenses. Delays may result in difficulty verifying the claim or obtaining approval.
If the insurer refuses to approve a claim for travel or accommodation, the claimant may request a review of the decision. If the review is unsuccessful, the claimant may apply to the Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) for a determination. The claimant must provide all supporting evidence, including medical documentation and financial records, to NCAT.
An example: A person injured in a motor accident in Wollongong travels weekly to Sydney for physiotherapy at a specialist rehabilitation centre. The travel is 120 kilometres each way and the treatment is not available locally. The claimant submits receipts for train fares and a hotel invoice for a three-night stay during a treatment block. The insurer approves the claim after verifying the medical necessity and cost reasonableness.
When to seek advice
Travel and accommodation claims are not automatically approved. The insurer has discretion to assess whether the travel was necessary and the costs were reasonable. The claimant may benefit from independent advice if:
- The insurer refuses to approve a claim.
- The claim is for a long-term treatment plan involving multiple trips.
- The claimant is unsure whether a cost qualifies as reasonable or necessary.
Every claim depends on its own facts. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.