If you’ve been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident or while working, you might be eligible for support through the National Injury Insurance Scheme Queensland (NIISQ)—even if you don’t make a personal injury claim.
This scheme was set up to provide lifetime care and support for people who suffer severe injuries, regardless of who was at fault.
NIISQ helps people who’ve experienced serious, life-changing injuries, such as:
Brain injuries
Spinal cord injuries
Multiple amputations
Severe burns
Permanent blindness
The goal is to make sure you get the treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care you need—without relying solely on the personal injury claims process or going to court.
You may qualify if:
You were seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident in Queensland
Your injury was caused by work (through a WorkCover claim)
You meet the medical criteria for a serious personal injury
NIISQ is not based on fault. That means you can still be covered even if no one else was to blame for what happened.
NIISQ can provide support for:
Medical and hospital treatment
Rehabilitation
Home and vehicle modifications
Personal care support
Aids and equipment
Case management and planning
It’s designed to take care of your needs now and into the future, so you can focus on recovery and quality of life.
A personal injury claim is about seeking compensation for your losses, pain, and suffering. NIISQ, on the other hand, is a care and support scheme. You don’t get a lump sum payout—instead, they fund the services and help you need.
If you’re eligible for both NIISQ and a compensation claim, a lawyer can help you understand how the two work together. Sometimes, NIISQ payments may be considered when calculating your injury compensation.
You usually apply through your hospital, GP, or specialist. There are also forms and info on the NIISQ website. If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, it’s a good idea to ask your medical team or a personal injury lawyer for guidance.
Next, we’ll look at how compensation amounts are worked out—what affects the value of a claim, and what’s considered when calculating your payout.
Go to the next page: How Are Injury Claims Calculated?