How Do I Lodge a TAC Claim After a Car Accident in Victoria?

First-person introduction:
I still remember the first time someone asked me, “Is lodging a TAC claim complicated?” Honestly, before learning how the system worked myself, I thought it would be a nightmare. Insurance processes tend to feel overwhelming, especially after something as stressful as a car accident. But once I understood the steps, I realised that lodging a TAC claim is actually quite straightforward—as long as you know what to expect and what information you need.

This article is here to make everything simple, relatable, and absolutely clear. Whether you’ve just been in an accident or you’re helping a friend or family member navigate the process, this guide will walk you through each step, what documents you need, what TAC will ask you, and when you should speak to a lawyer to protect your rights.

What Is the TAC?
Who Is Eligible to Lodge a TAC Claim?
Overview of the Claim Lodgement Process
Step 1 – Get Medical Attention
Step 2 – Report the Accident to Police
Step 3 – Gather Necessary Information
Step 4 – Lodge Your TAC Claim
Step 5 – TAC Assessment & Approval
Step 6 – Begin Treatment & Keep Records
Deadlines for Lodging a TAC Claim
What Information TAC Will Ask For
What Happens After the Claim Is Accepted?
Common Issues People Face When Lodging a Claim
When You Should Speak to a Lawyer
Final Thoughts

What Is the TAC?

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) is Victoria’s government-operated insurer for transport accident injuries. If you’re injured in a car accident involving a Victorian-registered vehicle, TAC covers treatment, rehabilitation, income support, and more—regardless of who caused the accident.

Lodging a TAC claim is essential to unlocking these benefits.

Who Is Eligible to Lodge a TAC Claim?

You may be eligible to lodge a TAC claim if you were injured as a:

Driver
Passenger
Cyclist
Pedestrian
Motorbike rider
Pillion passenger
Public transport user

The accident must involve a motor vehicle, motorbike, tram, bus, or truck. You may also be eligible if the accident was caused by an unidentified vehicle (e.g., hit-and-run).

Overview of the Claim Lodgement Process

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need to do:

Get medical treatment
Report the accident (if required)
Gather information
Lodge your claim with TAC (online or by phone)
Respond to TAC’s assessment questions
Begin treatment and track expenses

Now let’s dive deeper into each step.

Step 1 – Get Medical Attention

Your health comes first. Even if your injuries feel minor, it’s crucial to see a GP, go to the hospital, or visit urgent care as soon as possible.

Tell your doctor your injuries are from a transport accident—this will be recorded in your medical notes, which is vital for your TAC claim.

Why this step matters:

Your medical records confirm the accident caused your injuries.
TAC may not accept injuries with no medical documentation.
Some injuries worsen later and need early diagnosis.

Step 2 – Report the Accident to Police

If the accident involved:

Injury
Property damage where details couldn’t be exchanged
A hit-and-run

You must notify Victoria Police. TAC typically requires a police report number when lodging a claim.

Step 3 – Gather Necessary Information

Before lodging your claim, try to collect the following:

Accident date, time, and location
Details of all vehicles involved
Vehicle registration numbers
Photos of the accident scene (if available)
Witness details
Police report number
Your Medicare and banking details

If you don’t have all of this information, you can still lodge a claim—TAC can help you fill in the gaps.

Step 4 – Lodge Your TAC Claim

You can lodge your TAC claim in two ways:

1. By Phone

Call TAC directly and provide your details. The process takes about 20–30 minutes.

2. Online

Submit the claim through the TAC website using their online portal.

During lodgement, TAC will ask for:

Your personal information
Description of the accident
Your injuries
Your employment details
Your medical treatment providers

Tip: Be accurate and honest. Inconsistencies can cause delays or rejections.

Step 5 – TAC Assessment & Approval

Once you lodge the claim, TAC will:

Review your medical information
Verify accident details
Confirm eligibility

If approved, TAC provides you with a claim number so treatment providers can bill them directly.

Most claims are approved within days.

Step 6 – Begin Treatment & Keep Records

After approval:

GP visits, physiotherapy, chiropractic care, scans, medication, counselling, and other treatments can be covered.
Some services need prior approval (e.g., surgery, ongoing therapy).

Always keep:

Receipts
Medical certificates
Appointment notes
Travel logs for appointments

Deadlines for Lodging a TAC Claim

You typically have 12 months from the date of the accident to lodge a claim.

However, TAC may accept claims up to 3 years after the accident in certain circumstances—especially for delayed-onset injuries or psychological trauma.

If the accident resulted in a death, family members have 2 years to lodge a claim.

When in doubt, lodge early.

What Information TAC Will Ask For

TAC will ask for several details when you lodge your claim:

Your personal information
Your medical history
A description of the accident
Details about your injuries
Employment details (for loss of income claims)
Banks details

They may also contact your GP, employer, or witnesses if needed.

What Happens After the Claim Is Accepted?

Medical Expenses Covered

TAC covers:

GP visits
Physiotherapy
Chiropractic treatment
Psychology
Medication
Hospital care
Scans and imaging

Income Support

If you can’t work due to your injuries, TAC may pay up to 80% of your pre-injury earnings.

Travel Expenses

You may also be reimbursed for public transport or vehicle mileage to medical appointments.

Long-Term Support

Depending on severity, TAC may cover:

Home help
Attendant care
Home modifications
Vehicle modifications

Common Issues People Face When Lodging a Claim

Even with a straightforward system, some problems can arise, including:

Claim rejections due to lack of medical evidence
Disputes about whether the injury was accident-related
Delays caused by missing documents
Confusion around income support entitlements
TAC refusing to fund certain treatments

These issues often lead people to seek legal advice.

When You Should Speak to a Lawyer

A TAC lawyer can be extremely helpful if:

Your claim is rejected
Your injuries are serious or long-term
Your income support is incorrect
You need a Serious Injury Certificate
You may be entitled to a lump-sum common law claim
You disagree with TAC treatment decisions

A lawyer helps you maximise your entitlements and ensures your rights are protected throughout the process.

Final Thoughts

Lodging a TAC claim after a car accident in Victoria doesn’t have to be confusing. With the right steps, clear medical records, and proper information, the process can be smooth and stress-free. The TAC system is designed to support your recovery, cover your treatment, and provide financial help if you can’t work.

If you’re unsure about the process, dealing with a rejection, or suffering long-term injuries, speaking to a TAC specialist lawyer is one of the best decisions you can make.

For expert guidance, contact Hymans Legal or call 1300 667 116. Their experienced team can assist you through every step of your TAC claim.

How Do I Lodge A TAC Claim After A Car Accident In Victoria?