If you were hurt in a car accident on the way to or from work in the ACT, two schemes can be involved: workers compensation and the motor accident scheme. Which one pays depends on the state’s rules, and getting it wrong can cost you time you do not have. Here is how it works in the ACT, from the official sources.
Does workers compensation cover the drive to work in the ACT?
In the ACT, WorkSafe ACT says a claim may be made if a worker is injured travelling to or from the workplace.
What about the motor accident scheme?
The ACT motor accident (MAI) scheme says you cannot receive its defined benefits while you are also receiving workers compensation for the same motor accident.
The motor accident scheme in the ACT: Motor Accident Injuries (MAI) scheme, no-fault defined benefits.
What to do now
- If the police did not come, report the crash online or at a police station within 24 hours.
- Send your application to the MAI insurer of the most at-fault vehicle within 13 weeks. Late applications may not get backdated benefits.
- It does not matter who was at fault for the defined benefits.
If your employer’s scheme may also be involved:
- Tell your employer as soon as possible. Your employer must tell its insurer within 48 hours.
- If you are off work for 7 days or more, give the claim form and a Certificate of Capacity within 7 days.
- The insurer decides within 28 days (WorkSafe ACT).
Free official help
- Defined Benefits Information Service (free): 1300 209 642
- MAI Commission: 13 22 81
- WorkSafe ACT: 13 22 81
- Legal Aid ACT: 1300 654 314
Find the right lawyer to speak with
Answer a few quick questions. We send you the name and contact details of a law firm that handles this kind of claim in the ACT, so you can choose to speak with them.
Getting the name of the right firm is free. We do not charge you, and we do not take a fee from the law firm.
General information, not legal advice. Claim Done is not a law firm. Checked against the official sources below on 22 October 2026. If you need an interpreter, call TIS National on 131 450.
Official sources
- WorkSafe ACT: Making a claim
- ACT MAIC: Who is eligible for the MAI scheme
- ACT MAIC: How to apply for support