New CTP scheme likely to begin mid next year

The ACT government will shortly begin drafting laws for the new scheme, after a citizens' jury voted to move away from the current at-fault, common law model.

Now all people injured in car accidents will have access to treatment and income support, regardless of fault, while those with more serious injuries caused by the negligence of another driver will have access to a higher level of cover through common law proceedings.

The cost of the scheme will be reined in through the use of injury thresholds and caps on lump sum payments, with drivers expected to save between $91 and $171 a year.

An ACT government spokeswoman said the government will now undertake further consultation with relevant stakeholders on technical drafting and implementation issues "as required".

During the drafting process, the government will also look at three issues the jury raised that warranted further investigation.

This includes the current road safety levy, an independent medical panel and support available for CTP claimants.

The jury wrote in their final report the levy, as it stands, did not do enough to educate people about road safety.

They also felt that there was little information and assistance provided to CTP claimants outside the legal system, and there needed to be more support built into the new scheme.

The jury also called for an independent medical panel to be established to assess injured drivers, in order to "neutralise bias" and "focus on the best health outcomes for injured people".

The government has also accepted an offer by some members of the citizens' jury to provide feedback on the draft laws to ensure they match up to the jury's intent.

The bill will be introduced into the ACT Legislative Assembly by the end of this year, and is expected to begin operating in mid-2019.