CTP Claim NSW: How to Lodge a CTP Insurance Claim
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Principal Lawyer and Director · Last updated 21 October 2026
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Key Takeaway: To make a CTP claim in NSW under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017, get a police event number and a GP’s Certificate of Fitness, then lodge an Application for Personal Injury Benefits with the at-fault vehicle’s CTP insurer within 3 months. Lodging within 28 days backdates income support without needing to give a “full and satisfactory explanation” for the delay. A non-threshold injury (a break, fracture, tear, nerve damage, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) etc) can unlock a lump sum and ongoing benefits; a threshold injury (soft tissue injuries and undiagnosed psychological conditions etc) cannot.
CTP Claim NSW: Quick Answers
Making a CTP claim in NSW? Withstand Lawyers focuses exclusively on personal injury law: over $60 million recovered since 2014 for clients across Australia and NSW, a 99% success rate, 4.9 stars on Google from 265+ verified Google reviews, and no win, no fee.
Call 1800 952 898 for a free claim check
A crash brings appointments, pay that may stop, and forms before you have had time to think. What most people miss: a CTP claim in NSW is a sequence, not one form, and lodging late can cost you backdated income support, benefits and a potential payout.
For what your claim is worth, try our CTP compensation calculator; for whether you need a lawyer, see CTP lawyers in NSW. Either way, our NSW motor vehicle accident lawyers will check your claim for free and give you clear guidance.
What is a CTP claim in NSW, and who can make one?
A CTP claim in NSW is a claim for injury compensation against the compulsory third party (Green Slip) insurance on every registered NSW vehicle. It runs under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017, is regulated by SIRA, and is open to anyone injured in a NSW motor crash, whoever was at fault.
- •Drivers, including at-fault drivers. Mostly at fault (more than 61%) means up to 52 weeks of benefits and no lump sum; partly at fault reduces a lump sum by your share. See not-at-fault car accident claims.
- •Passengers. See our car accident passenger claim guide.
- •Riders, cyclists and pedestrians. See motorcycle accident compensation, bicycle accident claims and pedestrian injury claims.
- •People hit by an unidentified or uninsured vehicle, through the Nominal Defendant. See hit and run accident claims.
- •People injured at work, who also lodge a workers compensation claim.
How do you make a CTP claim in NSW, step by step?
You make a CTP claim in NSW in five steps, in this order, within 3 months of the accident.
- Step 1: Get a police event number from the Police Assistance Line on 131 444. Record details, plates, witnesses and photos. See what to do after a car accident.
- Step 2: See a GP for a Certificate of Fitness. You need one to lodge. Tell your treating doctor about every symptom, including psychological ones. We are lawyers, not doctors, so always follow your treating doctor’s advice.
- Step 3: Find the at-fault vehicle’s CTP insurer. You claim on its Green Slip, not yours. SIRA’s CTP Connect tool finds it from the registration.
- Step 4: Complete the Application for Personal Injury Benefits. Missing details can be added later.
- Step 5: Lodge it with your evidence. Through Service NSW, with the insurer, or by email or registered post. Attach your police event number, Certificate of Fitness, medical receipts and pay slips from before and after the crash. Lodging within 28 days backdates income support to the day after the accident. After 28 days, it is only backdated with a full and satisfactory explanation for the delay.
Call 1800 952 898 for a free claim check
Which CTP claim form do you need in NSW, and what are the time limits?
Most people need one CTP claim form in NSW: the Application for Personal Injury Benefits, with a Certificate of Fitness. Time limits run from the accident date.
| Form | Time limit | Where it goes |
|---|---|---|
| Application for Personal Injury Benefits | 3 months. Within 28 days backdates income support; after 28 days, only with a full and satisfactory explanation | At-fault vehicle’s CTP insurer, or Service NSW |
| Certificate of Fitness (SIRA form) | With your benefits application | Completed by your GP |
| Application for Common Law Damages (your claim for damages) | 3 years. Within 2 years to keep weekly payments beyond 2 years | At-fault vehicle’s CTP insurer |
| Application for General Assessment | Only if your damages claim does not settle | Personal Injury Commission |
The 28 days is not the deadline to claim. Here is how the timing works.
- •Within 28 days: weekly payments are backdated to the day after the accident. No explanation is needed.
- •After 28 days, within 3 months: they can still be backdated if you give the insurer a full and satisfactory explanation for the delay, such as not knowing you could claim or being too unwell to lodge. If the insurer does not reject your explanation within 14 days, it is accepted.
- •After 3 months: you can still claim with a full and satisfactory explanation, as long as you claim within 3 years of the accident. There is no 3-year cut-off if your impairment is more than 10% or the claim is for a death. Weekly payments then start from the date you claim.
- •Injured at work: if workers compensation paid your medical expenses, you have 3 months after those payments stop to claim CTP treatment and care benefits.
The 2-year point is different: your common law damages claim must be lodged by then to keep weekly payments running. More: how long after a car accident you can claim.
What happens after you lodge a CTP insurance claim?
After you lodge a CTP insurance claim in NSW, the insurer must act on a fixed timetable.
| When | What the insurer must do |
|---|---|
| Within 3 days of lodging | Confirm receipt, give you a claim number and explain how to access treatment |
| Within 4 weeks of lodging | Decide on treatment, care and income support |
| Within 10 working days | Start weekly payments, if you are entitled |
| Within 9 months of lodging | Decide fault and your injury category |
Income support is 95% of pre-accident earnings in weeks 1 to 13, then 85% (partially working) or 80% (not working) in weeks 14 to 52.
Unable to work because of your injuries? You may also be able to claim a total and permanent disability (TPD) benefit through your superannuation, separate from your CTP claim. Our TPD lawyers can tell you whether you are covered.
How does the injury category decision change your CTP claim, and can you challenge it?
The 9-month injury category decision sets how long you are paid and whether a lump sum is possible. One non-threshold injury is enough, even alongside whiplash. See threshold vs non-threshold injuries.
| Benefit | Threshold injury | Non-threshold injury |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly income support | Up to 52 weeks | Beyond 52 weeks if not mostly at fault |
| Treatment and care | Up to 52 weeks | Beyond 52 weeks if not mostly at fault |
| Lump sum (common law damages) | Not available | Available if not mostly at fault |
| Pain and suffering (non-economic loss) | Not available | Up to $712,000 (indexed from 1 October 2026) if impairment is more than 10% |
Disagree, or had your claim denied or cut off? Ask the insurer for an internal review within 28 days of the decision. Still disagree? Apply to the Personal Injury Commission for an independent review; the scheme funds legal costs for certain disputes. See our whiplash compensation claims and psychological injury compensation guides.
Claim denied, or want a Withstand lawyer to give you a free claim check? Call 1800 952 898
What have NSW CTP claims recovered with Withstand Lawyers?
Real NSW results. Every claim turns on its own facts; these are not guarantees. Ranges by injury: NSW motor vehicle accident compensation payouts.
| Client | Injuries | Result (NSW CTP) |
|---|---|---|
| Brad, 35, rear-ended at a red light | Whiplash, shoulder tear, lumbar disc, 13% WPI | $400,000 lump sum plus statutory benefits |
| Jane, pedestrian | Multiple fractures, several surgeries | $370,000 |
| Hamish, 61, pedestrian | Hit by an SUV at a crossing: pelvic fracture and brain injury, 32% WPI | $2.4 million |
CTP Claim NSW: Frequently Asked Questions
Can you claim on your own CTP?
What is the average CTP payout in NSW?
How do I claim my CTP refund?
Do I lodge my CTP claim with my own insurer or the other driver’s?
Can passengers claim CTP compensation in NSW?
Do I need a lawyer to make a CTP claim in NSW?
How long does a CTP claim take?
Why choose Withstand Lawyers for your NSW CTP claim?
When a crash leaves you seriously injured, the firm you choose matters. Withstand Lawyers brings over 40 years of combined experience and a proven record of helping seriously injured people across NSW, from the first benefits form to the final settlement.
We tell you how much your claim is worth, without pressuring you to settle. Over $60 million recovered since 2014 for clients across Australia and NSW, a 99% success rate, and no win, no fee. Book a free claim check today.
Call 1800 952 898 for your free claim check
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About the author
Issa Rabaya · Principal Lawyer and Director
✓ Admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW and High Court of Australia ✓ LLB ✓ IRO-approved ✓ Law Society of NSW
Acts for injured people in CTP, workers compensation, TPD and public liability claims.
4.9 ★ — 265+ Reviews
“Working with Esther has been an absolute blessing during an incredibly difficult time. Anyone who has ever had to navigate an insurance claim knows just how difficult, overwhelming, and anxiety-inducing the entire process can be. Before reaching out to Withstand Lawyers, I was constantly stressed and deeply overwhelmed by the system. The firm made the initial intake process incredibly smooth, and they placed me in the hands of my lawyer, Esther. From that moment on, from the first conversation, I finally found my solid ground.
Esther has completely transformed how I navigate this unfortunate situation. Because she handles my matter directly, I have a direct line of contact with her and never have to jump through hoops to get support. Esther’s presence alone has given me immense confidence in my claim. What sets her apart is her perfect balance of professional mastery and genuine empathy. As a client, having a lawyer who truly listens and supports you when your mind is filled with doubt is a massive relief. She doesn’t just manage a file — she consistently protects her client’s peace of mind. Her recommendations are always highly logical, realistic, and clear-cut. She cuts through the legal confusion and tells you exactly where you stand, which is exactly what you need during the hardest times of your life.
I feel incredibly lucky to have Esther and her team at Withstand Lawyers by my side. For anyone out there facing a difficult time with an insurer and looking for a legal advocate who offers absolute clarity, strength, and compassion — I cannot recommend Esther highly enough. She is a truly admirable professional who genuinely cares about the people she protects. Truly grateful!”
“I have searched top lawyers (personal injury) in Sydney. I found Withstand Lawyers so I rang them up and asked I need lawyers that are nicer and more understanding despite what I am going through. They exceeded my expectations especially Issa, he always remind everyone to be more cautious when speaking to me and I really appreciate that. I am satisfied that my case (MVA) turned out to be successful. Withstand lawyers is more than 5 stars. Can’t recommend highly enough.”
“I would like to express my deepest appreciation for the incredible support I’ve received over the past 4.5 years. My case has been long, complicated, and filled with challenges, but Issa and his team stood by me through every step with genuine care, professionalism, and dedication. Their compassion has meant just as much to me as their legal expertise. They didn’t just handle my case, they helped me through some of the most difficult years of my life. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone who needs genuine support, honesty, and a team that truly cares about your wellbeing.”
“Thank you Withstand Lawyer for your exceptional work, professionalism and easy process for successfully assisting me with my TPD claim. I am thankful for your support. I highly recommend Withstand Lawyers and the services they provide.”
“Had a very positive experience with Withstand Lawyers. The team was professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire process. They took the time to explain everything clearly, kept me informed at every stage, and responded promptly to my questions. Their attention to detail and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome gave me confidence from start to finish. I truly appreciate their dedication and excellent service, and I would highly recommend Withstand Lawyers to anyone looking for reliable and trustworthy service.”
Meet Your Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers
Every motor vehicle accident claim is handled by a personal injury lawyer with dedicated motor vehicle accident experience.
Issa Rabaya
Director, Lawyer
Founder and Director with 12 years' experience since his 2014 admission, previously at the largest litigation law firm in Australia. A personal injury lawyer for serious injuries, leading Withstand Lawyers' work across every claim type, with settlements reaching into the millions, including a $6.3 million motor vehicle accident result.
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Minaa Mohmand
Special Counsel
Special Counsel with over a decade of experience since 2016, handling complex, higher-value claims: serious injuries, disputed liability and matters heading to litigation, across motor vehicle accidents, work injury damages, public liability and TPD.
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Esther Ihn
Senior Associate
Senior Associate with over a decade of experience exclusively in personal injury claims since 2014, handling hundreds of matters across motor vehicle accidents, workers compensation, work injury damages and public liability. The team's go-to for serious-injury claims.
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Mihana Wen
Associate
Associate with 6 years' experience since 2020 and a recent $1.95 million motor vehicle accident settlement, known for not taking no for an answer and lodging appeal submissions for injuries insurers try to deem below the 11% whole person impairment threshold for pain and suffering. The go-to for car accident claims, guiding clients from the first CTP submission through to settlement with a compassionate, hands-on approach.
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