An independent review of the ACT's Motor Accident Injuries (MAI) Scheme is now underway, with Canberrans invited to have their say on how the scheme is supporting people injured in motor vehicle accidents and identify opportunities for improvement.
To support community consultation, the ACT Government has released a discussion paper on the MAI Commission website that outlines key issues and questions for consideration.
Canberrans are invited to provide feedback over a consultation period of over eight weeks, closing 18 September 2026.
Minister for Finance Rachel Stephen-Smith said the review is an important opportunity to assess how the scheme is working and how it can be improved.
"The Motor Accident Injuries Scheme was introduced to help people injured in motor vehicle accidents access treatment, rehabilitation and income support earlier," said Minister Stephen-Smith.
"This review is an opportunity to hear directly from the people who use and work within the scheme, so we can deliver better support and outcomes, while ensuring the scheme remains affordable and sustainable for the Canberra community."
The Motor Accident Injuries Act 2019 requires the scheme to be reviewed every three years. This is the second review since the scheme commenced in 2020.
The review will be led by an independent consultant and informed by a review board, chaired by the ACT Under Treasurer, alongside external members with specialist expertise in insurance schemes and advocacy.
The review will consider:
- How the MAI Scheme is improving outcomes for people injured in motor vehicle accidents.
- Whether the scheme is supporting early access to treatment, rehabilitation and support services.
- How the scheme is operating as common law has developed.
- Opportunities to improve the operation of the scheme while maintaining affordable insurance premiums for ACT motorists.
Canberrans who have accessed support through the scheme, as well as legal representatives, treatment providers, insurers, advocacy organisations and other interested stakeholders, are encouraged to participate.
In addition to written submissions, a survey will be distributed to eligible people who have used the scheme since the last review, and stakeholder forums will be held to gather further feedback.
The independent consultant will prepare a report on the review's findings and recommendations. The report will be tabled in the ACT Legislative Assembly and published on the MAI Commission website.
"We want to hear directly from the people who have experience with the scheme, whether as applicants, families, advocates, service providers or insurers, so I encourage the community to participate," said Minister Stephen-Smith.
"This feedback will help us understand what is working, and importantly where improvements can be made to ensure the scheme continues to deliver timely support for injured people while remaining sustainable for all ACT motorists."
