What is NIISQ?
NIISQ is the National Injury Insurance Scheme, Queensland.
NIISQ exists to fund reasonable and necessary treatment, care and support for people who have been seriously injured in motor vehicle accidents from 1 July 2016.
NIISQ is a no-fault Scheme. It exists to support very seriously injured road accident survivors regardless of fault or who is to blame for causing the road accident.
Who is Eligible under NIISQ?
To be eligible to be accepted under NIISQ, the injured person needs to meet certain criteria such as:-
- Permanent Blindness caused by Trauma
- Severe Burns
- Permanent Injury to the Brachial Plexus (network of nerves in the shoulder)
- Multiple or high-level Limb Amputations
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Permanent Spinal Cord Injuries
What Treatment & Rehabilitation does NIISQ actually fund?
- Ambulance Transportation
- Attendant Care & Support
- Home & Transport Modifications
- Educational & Vocational Training
- Respite Care
- Aids & Appliances
- Prostheses
- Dental Treatment
- Medical & Pharmaceutical Treatment
- Rehabilitation
Interim Participant v. Lifetime Participant
Once accepted by NIISQ as an interim participant, the injured person will receive funding for treatment, car and support for the next two years.
At the end of the two year period as an interim participant, the injured person’s situation and recovery is assessed to see if they qualify for lifetime treatment, care and support for the rest of their lives.
How do I contact NIISQ and how do I apply to NIISQ?
You can contact NIISQ via the following:-
Email: enquiries@niis.qld.gov.au
Phone: 1300 607 566
In our experience, if someone has been catastrophically injured due to a road accident, it is likely or highly likely that an application to NIISQ will be raised and discussed at the treating hospital. Social workers employed by hospitals in Queensland are experienced with NIISQ and can assist with the preparation of the initial paperwork.
If you think you may be eligible with NIISQ, an Application Form must be completed. Here is the link: https://niis.qld.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/NIISQ-Application-Form_Interim-Participant.pdf
Does NIISQ provide lump sum compensation or damages?
No. To achieve any compensation or damages from a road accident, you must be able to establish liability or fault and proceed with a compulsory third party (CTP) claim against the CTP insurer of the vehicle at fault and strict time limits apply to CTP claims.
We are able to provide obligation-free advice with respect to any and all CTP claims. It is best to seek legal advice if you have been injured due to a road accident so that you are aware of your rights, options and the time limits which apply.
What is the difference between NIISQ and NDIS?
Is NIISQ the same as the NDIS? No. They are two different schemes which provide funding and access to support people with disabilities.
NIISQ is a Queensland or State based scheme of funding for catastrophically injured road accident survivors.
The NDIS is a Commonwealth based scheme. NIISQ does not fund housing whereas NDIS can or does to eligible person.
