26 Nov 2022

Accident Compensation Bill passes first reading

11:51 am on 26 November 2022
ACC Building in Wellington

ACC Building in Wellington Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver

A government bill aimed at making it easier for certain groups to get Accident Compensation passed its first reading on Friday.

An analysis last year found the scheme was biased against Māori, Pasifika, women and disabled people.

The changes the government is proposing include new reporting requirements on access to ACC, and paying compensation faster - allowing people on low incomes to better focus on their rehabilitation.

Minister of Social Development Carmel Sepuloni said ACC helped to rehabilitate thousands of people each year, but not everyone had equal access.

The amendments would help ACC understand how to address the disparities, Sepuloni said.

The Accident Compensation (Access Reporting and Other Matters) Bill, requires the agency to report annually on how Māori and other disadvantaged population groups access its services.