Published: Mar 03 2025
Understanding your rights to entitlements under the Accident Compensation Act 2001 can significantly impact your recovery journey. ACC doesn’t just have an obligation to provide entitlements once cover is accepted—they also have a legal duty to inform you clearly about what entitlements you’re eligible for and to help you access these services effectively.
What Does Section 50 Mean for You?
Section 50 of the Accident Compensation Act 2001 outlines specific responsibilities that ACC must adhere to once your claim has been accepted.
Informing You of Entitlements ACC must proactively inform you about all entitlements relevant to your injury or condition, including
Medical treatment and rehabilitation services
Weekly compensation (loss of income)
Vocational rehabilitation and retraining opportunities
Social rehabilitation (e.g., home help, transportation, aids, and appliances)
Lump sum or independence allowances
Facilitating Access ACC is legally required not just to inform, but also to facilitate your timely and efficient access to these entitlements. They must
Clearly communicate processes and requirements.
Provide guidance on documentation and applications.
Assist actively in overcoming any barriers to accessing entitlements.
Why This Obligation is important
Many claimants struggle because they simply don’t know what ACC support they’re entitled to receive. ACC’s duty under Section 50 ensures that you’re fully aware of and able to access all available support, removing confusion and preventing unnecessary delays.
Holding ACC Accountable to Section 50
If ACC fails to adequately inform or facilitate access to your entitlements, you can hold them accountable.
Identify Gaps Clearly document instances where ACC did not inform you of available entitlements or failed to assist adequately.
Make a Code of Claimant Rights Complaint Instead of requesting a review, you can file a formal complaint under the ACC Code of Claimant Rights. This process allows you to address issues directly related to ACC’s compliance with their obligations under Section 50.
Complaint Outcomes A successful complaint can result in ACC immediately addressing their oversight, ensuring you receive complete and timely assistance moving forward.
How to Take Action as a Subscriber
ACC Advisor subscribers have exclusive tools at their fingertips.
Use our Medico-Legal Chatbot to clarify exactly what entitlements you should have been informed about and guide you through a tailored Code of Claimant Rights Complaint if necessary.
Access Customized Advice Leverage our resources to ensure you receive every entitlement you’re legally due, supported by clear, actionable information.
Understanding Section 50 empowers you to demand proactive support from ACC, ensuring a smoother, clearer, and more effective rehabilitation journey. Stay informed and supported with ACC Advisor.