Secondary victim psychiatric injury claims in NSW CTP

Secondary victim psychiatric injury claims can arise where a person develops a recognised psychiatric condition after exposure to a traumatic motor accident event involving others. These claims need careful legal framing and medical evidence. General information only.

Key references on this page

1) Typical assessment focus

  • Relationship and factual circumstances
  • Perception/aftermath details
  • Recognised psychiatric diagnosis
  • Causation and functional impairment

2) Common dispute themes

  • Eligibility pathway objections
  • Causation and pre-existing condition arguments
  • Severity and functional impact challenges

If a decision has issued, see internal review steps.

Frequently asked questions

What is a secondary victim claim?
A claim by a person not physically injured in the crash but who suffers recognised psychiatric injury in qualifying circumstances.
Are these claims easy to prove?
No. They are often complex and depend on strict legal tests plus strong psychiatric evidence.