About SIRA
In NSW, both Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance claims and Workers Compensation (WorkCover) are regulated by the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA). SIRA oversees how these schemes operate to ensure fair access to support, treatment, and compensation.
- Workers’ Compensation (WorkCover): for people injured at work
- CTP Insurance (Compulsory Third Party): for people injured in motor vehicle accidents
- Home Building Compensation: not directly relevant to psychology, but included for completeness
About WorkCover
WorkCover provides financial and treatment support for workers who suffer a work-related injury or illness.
What WorkCover Covers
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Weekly payments for lost income
- Compensation for permanent impairment
- Support to return to work
How WorkCover Works
When someone is injured in an eligible motor accident, they can lodge a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer (or their own insurer in some cases). SIRA regulates the process to ensure fair and timely support.
Why WorkCover Matters
WorkCover ensures injured workers receive timely treatment, income support, and assistance returning to work, helping minimise disruption to their health, livelihood, and wellbeing.
Relevance for Psychologists
For psychologists, the two systems that matter most are WorkCover and CTP. SIRA sets the rules and standards for healthcare providers offering treatment under these schemes.
To treat WorkCover or CTP clients, psychologists must be SIRA-accredited. Accreditation ensures they meet the necessary training and practice standards for working with people who have experienced workplace or motor vehicle-related injuries.