Being involved in a car accident can turn your life upside down. Between medical appointments, time off work and dealing with insurers, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news is that in Victoria, the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) provides compensation and support for people injured on the road, whether you were driving, riding, walking or a passenger.
Understanding what you’re entitled to can help you focus on recovery while protecting your legal rights.
Who Can Make a TAC Claim in Victoria
TAC benefits are available to anyone injured in a transport accident that happens in Victoria, or interstate if a Victorian-registered vehicle was involved. A transport accident includes incidents directly caused by the driving of a motor vehicle, train or tram.
You don’t have to be the driver to make a TAC claim. Passengers, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists can also be covered if their injuries were caused by the driving of a vehicle. TAC assistance also extends to people injured at work, including rideshare or delivery drivers, if a vehicle was involved.
The TAC operates as a no-fault scheme, which means you can still receive treatment and support even if you were partly responsible for the accident, or if the at-fault driver was uninsured or cannot be identified.
What TAC Covers After a Car Accident
The TAC can cover a wide range of services to help you recover after an accident, including:
- Medical and rehabilitation costs such as GP visits, physiotherapy, surgery, medication and counselling
- Income support if you’re unable to work because of your injuries
- Home and personal support such as cleaning, transport or childcare while you recover
- Long-term care or modifications to your home or vehicle if your injuries are permanent or severe
The TAC does not cover damage to your vehicle or personal property. Those matters are handled through your own insurance.
In some cases, you may also be entitled to a lump sum payment or to pursue a common law claim if your injuries are serious and another party was mostly at fault. To qualify, you generally need to meet the TAC’s serious injury threshold, which involves a medical assessment of permanent impairment or the significant impact of the injury on your life.
How and When to Lodge Your TAC Claim
You’ll generally need to lodge your TAC claim within one year of the accident, or from when your injury first becomes apparent. Claims made later may still be accepted, up to three years, if there are reasonable grounds for the delay.
You can lodge your claim online, over the phone, or through your doctor or hospital. You’ll need to provide details of the accident, your injuries and any treatment you’ve received so far. If the accident wasn’t reported to police, try to do so as soon as possible, as TAC usually requires a police reference number.
Keeping copies of your medical certificates, receipts and correspondence will help ensure your claim is processed smoothly.
If TAC Rejects or Stops Your Claim
It’s not uncommon for TAC to reduce or stop payments, especially for ongoing treatment like physiotherapy or counselling. This might happen if a medical reviewer decides you’ve reached maximum improvement, or if TAC needs more medical evidence.
If you disagree with a TAC decision, you have options. You can request an internal review, apply for conciliation through the Accident Compensation Conciliation Service, or get legal advice about challenging the outcome. A lawyer experienced in TAC matters can help you gather evidence and negotiate on your behalf. You don’t have to accept a decision that doesn’t seem fair.
Why You Should Get Legal Advice for a TAC Claim
The TAC system is designed to help you recover, but it can still be confusing, especially when you’re focusing on your health. Speaking with a lawyer early doesn’t mean you’re starting a lawsuit. It simply ensures you understand your rights and what steps to take next.
A lawyer can also identify whether you might qualify for additional compensation through a common law claim or impairment benefit. These claims have strict requirements and time limits, so getting early advice is important.
FAQs About TAC Claims in Victoria
How long do I have to make a TAC claim?
You generally have 12 months from the date of the accident or when your injury becomes apparent, but you may have up to three years in special circumstances.
Can I claim TAC if I was at fault?
Yes. The TAC is a no-fault scheme, so you can still receive treatment and income support even if you caused the accident.
Can I get extra compensation for serious injuries?
If your injury meets the TAC’s serious injury threshold and another party was mostly at fault, you may be able to make a common law claim for additional compensation.
Next Steps
If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident, you don’t have to handle the TAC process on your own. Our TAC lawyers in Victoria can explain your rights, review your claim and help you secure the support you need to recover.
You can contact us for a confidential discussion about your situation. There’s no obligation, and you’ll have a clearer understanding of your options moving forward.
