1. Purpose of the ACC

The ACC was established to:

• Provide financial and medical support to individuals who suffer injuries in New Zealand.
• Reduce the personal, social, and economic impacts of injuries.
• Promote injury prevention through education and initiatives.

The ACC is governed by the Accident Compensation Act 2001, which outlines its responsibilities, coverage, and operational framework.

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2. How the ACC Operates Nationwide

The ACC is a government-run entity funded through levies, government contributions, and investment returns. It operates as a universal, no-fault insurance scheme, meaning:

• Anyone injured in New Zealand can access ACC support, regardless of whether they are a resident, citizen, or visitor.
• The scheme covers injuries from accidents, including workplace injuries, road accidents, sports injuries, and injuries sustained at home or in public spaces.
• ACC also provides support for injuries caused by medical treatment (referred to as "treatment injuries").

Key Features:

• No-fault system: You are covered regardless of who caused the accident.
• Nationwide coverage: ACC services are available across New Zealand, with a network of healthcare providers, rehabilitation services, and support systems.

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3. Relevant National Regulations

The ACC operates under the Accident Compensation Act 2001, which defines:

• The scope of injuries covered (e.g., physical injuries, mental injuries caused by physical trauma, and work-related gradual process injuries like hearing loss).
• The entitlements available, such as medical treatment, rehabilitation, and income compensation.
• The obligations of employers, healthcare providers, and individuals in relation to injury reporting and prevention.

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4. General Costs

The ACC is funded through several sources:

• Levies: Paid by employers, employees, and vehicle owners.
  • Employers pay levies to cover workplace injuries.
  • Employees contribute through a portion of their income (deducted automatically via PAYE).
  • Vehicle owners pay levies as part of their vehicle registration fees to cover road-related injuries.
• Government funding: Covers injuries for non-earners, such as children, retirees, and visitors.

For Individuals:

• Medical treatment costs: ACC subsidizes the cost of treatment for covered injuries. You may still need to pay a co-payment for some services (e.g., GP visits or physiotherapy), but the amount is significantly reduced.
• No direct cost for visitors: Visitors to New Zealand do not pay ACC levies but are still covered for injuries sustained during their stay.

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5. Standard Procedures for Accessing ACC Services

If you are injured in New Zealand, follow these steps to access ACC support:

Step 1: Seek Medical Treatment

• Visit a healthcare provider (e.g., GP, physiotherapist, or hospital) as soon as possible after the injury.
• Inform the provider that the injury was caused by an accident. They will complete an ACC claim form on your behalf and submit it to ACC.

Step 2: ACC Claim Assessment

• ACC will assess the claim to determine if the injury is covered under the scheme.
• You will receive a notification of the decision. If approved, ACC will cover the costs of treatment and other entitlements.

Step 3: Access Support and Entitlements

Depending on the nature and severity of your injury, ACC may provide:

• Medical treatment: Subsidized or fully covered costs for doctor visits, physiotherapy, surgery, and other treatments.
• Rehabilitation: Support for physical and vocational rehabilitation to help you recover and return to work or daily activities.
• Income compensation: If you are unable to work due to your injury, ACC may provide weekly compensation (up to 80% of your pre-injury income).
• Home and vehicle modifications: For serious injuries, ACC may fund modifications to your home or vehicle to improve accessibility.
• Support for dependents: In cases of fatal injuries, ACC provides financial support to the deceased’s dependents.

Step 4: Follow-Up and Ongoing Support

• ACC may require regular updates from your healthcare provider to monitor your recovery.
• If your claim is declined, you can request a review or appeal the decision.

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6. Country-Specific Considerations for Visitors and Immigrants

Visitors and immigrants should be aware of the following:

For Visitors:

• ACC Coverage: Visitors are covered for injuries sustained in New Zealand, but ACC does not cover illnesses or pre-existing conditions. It is essential to have travel insurance to cover non-accident-related healthcare needs.
• Costs: While ACC subsidizes treatment costs, visitors may still need to pay co-payments for some services.
• Repatriation: ACC does not cover the cost of returning to your home country if you are unable to travel due to an injury.

For Immigrants:

• Permanent Residents and Citizens: You are fully covered under the ACC scheme, just like New Zealand citizens.
• Workplace Injuries: If you are employed, your employer is responsible for ensuring a safe work environment and paying ACC levies. If you are injured at work, you are entitled to ACC support.
• Healthcare Access: ACC does not replace general healthcare services. Ensure you are enrolled with a GP for non-accident-related medical needs.

General Notes:

• Mental Health Support: ACC covers mental injuries caused by physical trauma or certain criminal acts (e.g., sexual assault). However, general mental health conditions not linked to an accident are not covered.
• Prevention Focus: ACC invests heavily in injury prevention programs, such as workplace safety initiatives, road safety campaigns, and sports injury prevention.

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7. Unique Features of the ACC System

• World-Leading Model: New Zealand’s ACC is one of the few comprehensive, no-fault accident compensation schemes in the world.
• No Lawsuits for Personal Injury: Under the ACC system, individuals cannot sue for personal injury damages in New Zealand. This reduces legal costs and ensures equitable access to support.
• Focus on Rehabilitation: ACC emphasizes helping individuals recover and return to normal life as quickly as possible.

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8. Key Contacts and Resources

• ACC Website: www.acc.co.nz – Comprehensive information about services, claims, and injury prevention.
• ACC Contact Centre: Call 0800 101 996 (within New Zealand) for general inquiries.
• Emergency Services: Dial 111 for urgent medical assistance in case of a serious injury.

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Conclusion

The ACC is a vital part of New Zealand’s healthcare and social support system, ensuring that anyone injured in the country receives the care and support they need. Whether you are a resident, immigrant, or visitor, understanding how the ACC works can help you navigate the system effectively in the event of an injury. For non-accident-related healthcare needs, ensure you have appropriate insurance or access to public healthcare services.