Queensland’s National Injury Insurance Scheme came into effect this month, providing care and support for all people who sustain life-changing injuries in a motor vehicle accident.
Member for Algester Leeanne Enoch said the scheme addresses a gap in Queensland’s existing Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance which does not cover drivers who are at fault, or where there is no negligent party involved.
“It may come as a surprise to many Queenslanders that CTP insurance only covers about half of all people seriously injured in motor vehicle accidents,” Ms Enoch said.
“These people have had to rely on their own assets, taxpayer-funded healthcare and support services, and family and friends for their support.
“From today the National Injury Insurance Scheme Queensland will fill that gap – providing necessary and reasonable treatment, care and support including rehabilitation, medical and pharmaceutical treatment, respite care, home and vehicle modifications, and aids and appliances such as wheelchairs.
“Under this scheme, the injured person will benefit from improved recovery and health outcomes, and can focus on getting back into the community and achieving their personal goals.
“The National Injury Insurance Scheme Queensland brings our State into line with the rest of Australia and is a significant social reform.”
The National Injury Insurance Agency Queensland has been established to administer the scheme, which will be funded by a levy paid at the same time as motor vehicle registration.
For an average family car, the net cost for the scheme is only $32, making it one of the most affordable schemes in Australia.
“The National Injury Insurance Scheme Queensland is an affordable scheme that gets the balance right for motorists,” Ms Enoch said.
“In order to identify cost efficiencies and seek further savings, the Palaszczuk Government is also conducting a review of the CTP insurance scheme.
“This will be completed in time for calculating 2017/18 CTP premiums, with any savings expected to take effect from 1 July 2017.”
While the scheme commenced on 1 July, in order to allow the National Injury Insurance Agency and the Department of Transport and Main Roads to implement IT system changes, the levy will not commence until 1 October.
Further information about the National Injury Insurance Scheme Queensland is available at niis.qld.gov.au