Whether it’s a slip and fall, a machinery accident, or repetitive strain from daily tasks, injuries can impact an employee’s ability to work and earn a living.
In New Zealand, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) provides financial support and rehabilitation services to workers who suffer injuries on the job. Understanding how ACC claims and compensation work is crucial for all employees.
In this article, we’ll guide you through workplace injuries, ACC claims, compensation, as well as employer responsibilities and dispute resolution options.
1. What is ACC?
The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) is a government agency that provides no-fault insurance coverage for injuries in New Zealand. This means that regardless of who caused the accident, injured workers can access compensation and medical support.
What Injuries Does ACC Cover?
ACC covers work-related injuries, including:
Acute injuries – Slips, trips, falls, fractures, sprains, burns, and cuts.
Gradual process injuries – Repetitive strain injuries, occupational overuse syndrome, and exposure-related conditions.
Workplace-related mental injuries – Psychological trauma due to a sudden, traumatic event at work.
Work-related illnesses and diseases – Conditions caused by long-term exposure to harmful substances.
What Injuries are not Covered?
ACC may not cover:
Pre-existing conditions unrelated to work.
Stress, anxiety, or depression unless linked to a traumatic event.
Injuries caused by intentionally reckless behaviour or self-inflicted harm.
2. What to do if you’re Injured at Work
If you suffer a workplace injury, it’s important to act quickly to ensure you receive proper treatment and compensation.
Seek Medical Attention: Visit a doctor, physiotherapist, or healthcare provider as soon as possible. Tell them the injury happened at work so they can file an ACC claim on your behalf.
Report the Injury to Your Employer: Notify your employer about the injury as soon as possible. Additionally, complete an incident report (if required by your workplace).
File an ACC Claim: Your doctor or healthcare provider will complete an ACC45 form. The form is then sent to ACC for review and approval.
3. How ACC Claims Are Processed
Step 1: ACC Receives and Assesses the Claim: ACC reviews your claim to confirm eligibility based on injury type and circumstances. If additional information is needed, ACC may request a medical assessment or employer statement.
Step 2: Claim Approval or Decline: If approved, ACC provides compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lost wages (if applicable). If declined, you have the right to appeal the decision.
Step 3: Rehabilitation and Recovery: ACC may arrange physiotherapy, counselling, or workplace modifications to help you return to work.
4. Compensation Entitlements Under ACC
Medical Treatment and Rehabilitation
If your ACC claim is approved, you are entitled to:
Doctor visits and specialist care.
Physiotherapy and rehabilitation services.
Medication costs related to the injury.
Surgery and hospital care, if necessary.
Home modifications if a serious injury requires it.
Weekly Compensation for Lost Wages
If your injury prevents you from working, ACC provides weekly compensation to cover lost earnings.
Payments start after the first week of injury (the first week is typically unpaid).
You will receive 80% of your pre-injury weekly income.
If you return to work part-time, ACC may provide partial compensation.
If you are self-employed, ACC will base compensation on your earnings in the past year.
Lump-Sum Compensation for Permanent Impairment
If your injury causes permanent disability, you may be eligible for a one-time lump sum payment. The amount depends on the severity of the impairment.
Vocational Rehabilitation and Return to Work Support
ACC may provide:
Workplace modifications (e.g., ergonomic chairs, voice-recognition software).
Retraining and job placement assistance if you cannot return to your previous job.
5. What Happens if you Disagree with an ACC Decision?
ACC does not approve every claim. If your claim is declined, you have options to challenge the decision.
Step 1: Request a Review: You can ask ACC to reconsider your claim by providing additional medical evidence.
Step 2: File a Formal Review Application: If ACC upholds the decline, you can request a formal review through an independent reviewer.
Step 3: Appeal to the District Court: If the review decision is unsatisfactory, you can appeal the case to the ACC Appeals Tribunal or District Court.
Final Thoughts
ACC’s system is designed to provide financial protection and rehabilitation for workers injured on the job. Understanding how to file a claim, what compensation you’re entitled to, and what to do if a claim is declined ensures that injured workers receive the support they need.
Injured at work?
We’ll guide you through these difficult times.
Our expert team will help you understand your employment rights, and pursue resolution (including compensation) through various channels, such as: Without prejudice negotiations, mediation, the Employment Relations Authority, or Employment Court if required.
We also work on a no-win, no-fee basis – if we win your case, your employer covers the costs.
Get in touch for a free consultation! You can fill out this form – or contact us at admin@mahilaw.nz, or 0800 450 032.
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