The Accident Compensation Commission of Fiji (ACCF) has reported significant advancements in its payout for accidents, totaling approximately $82 million in compensation for motor vehicle, employment, and school-related incidents. Commission manager Anjeet Charan revealed during a public briefing to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Economic Affairs that the ACCF has processed around 3,800 applications to date.
As part of the proposed changes in the Accident Compensation Amendment Bill 2025, Charan outlined plans to refine the definition of “accident” within the Act. The intention is to replace the broad term with a specific focus on motor vehicle accidents, ensuring that the Act is better tailored to address these incidents. Furthermore, the amendment aims to alter Section 22 (2) of the current Act, allowing applicants the right to appeal ACCF decisions, which were previously deemed final and non-reviewable.
The ACCF will be shifting all employment-related claims to the Ministry of Employment, as highlighted in previous announcements. This move, part of a government strategy to enhance efficiency, will include the transition of existing employment and school accident regulations to the Work Care Bill. The commission’s future efforts will concentrate on motor vehicle accidents, improving processing timelines, and promoting road safety awareness in collaboration with the Fiji Police and Land Transport Authority (LTA).
In earlier reports, the ACCF had paid out around $12.86 million from August 2021 to July 2022, with motor vehicle accidents accounting for a significant portion of claims. The ongoing emphasis on road safety, in conjunction with regulatory updates, reflects a comprehensive approach to reduce accidents and enhance support for victims of motor vehicle incidents.
This proactive stance not only aims to streamline processes but also signifies a commitment from the government to create a more effective compensation framework that can better support those affected by accidents, fostering a safer community across Fiji. The ongoing dialogue and implementation of reforms provide a hopeful outlook for improved safety and enhanced recovery for affected individuals.
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