A CTP (Compulsory Third Party) claim is a personal injury claim made against the insurer of a vehicle involved in a road accident. Every registered vehicle in Australia carries CTP insurance, which covers compensation for people injured — including drivers, passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists — when the accident was caused by someone else's negligence. Compensation can cover past and future medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and in serious cases a lump-sum common law damages payment.
Who can make a claim?
- You were injured in a road accident as a driver, passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or motorcyclist
- Another driver was at fault (wholly or partly) — in some states, no-fault benefits are also available
- Your injuries have required medical treatment or caused you to miss work
- The accident occurred in Australia (each state has its own CTP scheme)
- You are within the applicable time limit for your state (see table below)
Time limits by state
Missing a deadline can permanently bar your claim. Check the time limit for your state.
| State / Territory | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| New South WalesNSW | 3 years |
| VictoriaVIC | 1 year (notice) / 3 years (court) |
| QueenslandQLD | 9 months (notice) / 3 years (claim) |
| Western AustraliaWA | 3 years |
| South AustraliaSA | 3 years |
| TasmaniaTAS | 3 years |
| Australian Capital TerritoryACT | 3 years |
| Northern TerritoryNT | 3 years |
Time limits are indicative only and may be affected by the claimant's age, date of knowledge, and other circumstances. Seek legal advice promptly — missing a deadline can permanently bar your claim.
How the claims process works
- 1
Report the accident
Report the accident to police (required in most states if there are injuries) and exchange details with all parties. Keep copies of the police report number.
- 2
Seek medical treatment
See a doctor as soon as possible — even if you feel fine initially. A contemporaneous medical record is critical evidence. Keep all receipts and certificates.
- 3
Notify the CTP insurer
Identify the insurer of the at-fault vehicle (details are on the registration) and submit a claim form. Deadlines vary by state — some are as short as 9 months.
- 4
Engage a no-win no-fee lawyer
A specialist personal injury lawyer assesses your claim, gathers evidence (medical reports, accident reconstruction, lost income records), and negotiates with the insurer on your behalf.
- 5
Negotiate or litigate
Most CTP claims settle through negotiation or a structured mediation process. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may commence court proceedings.
- 6
Receive your settlement
Once agreed, your compensation is paid as a lump sum. Your lawyer's fees (typically 15–25% of the settlement) are only deducted upon success.
