MEDIA RELEASE
MORE THAN $40 MILLION PAID BY ACCF
The Accident Compensation Commission of Fiji has paid out more than $40 million in compensation to victims and families of victims of motor vehicle, employment and school accidents since the introduction of the no-fault compensation scheme by the Fijian Government pursuant to the Accident Compensation Act 2017 and Regulations which came into force from 01st January 2018.
The Accident Compensation Act brought about the most significant transformation in the history of Fiji on how the nation supports victims of motor vehicle, employment and school accidents.
ACCF CEO, Mr. Parvez Akbar stated that the Accident Compensation Scheme owes its success to several factors and partners, and he acknowledges and thanks the hard work and dedication of the ACCF team and the ongoing support from the ACCF Board. Mr Akbar expressed his gratitude to the Fijian Government, in particular the Attorney-General and Minister for Economy, the Honourable Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum for advocating the introduction of the scheme and ensuring it was set up and supported for success with a view to helping victims of motor vehicle, employment and school accidents.
The CEO advised that approximately 80% of the $40 million would not have been paid if the applications for compensation were made prior to the introduction of the Accident Compensation Scheme. Family members no longer have to establish fault or pursue costly and protracted legal claims for compensation. The scheme also removes a number of unreasonable exclusions that existed under the old law. It is far more easier now to receive compensation for motor vehicle, employment and school accidents and there is no application fee.
Mr Akbar urges all road users to be safe on our roads, including requesting drivers to slow down, not drink and drive (alcohol or kava) and be well rested before driving. Employers and workers are also encouraged to prioritise health, safety and wellbeing in the workplace.