ACC Advocates NZ
ACC Advocates NZ
Not sure where to start with ACC?
You’re not alone. Many people feel overwhelmed by the ACC process.
Choose what best describes your situation below.
You do not need a lawyer to use an ACC advocate
Many people seek help even if their claim is already declined
WayFinders provide free, independent advice so that you can understand what is happening with your claim and your ACC entitlements or any other query relating to ACC.
Talking to an advocate does not obligate you to take further action.
Access our free directory of vetted ACC advocates and legal specialists – download your complete list today.
ACC FAQs - Your Questions Answered
Back injuries can affect every part of daily life — work, mobility, income, independence, and family life.
If you are dealing with a slipped disc, spinal injury, chronic back pain, or an ACC back injury claim, an ACC advocate may be able to help you understand your options.
You do not have to wait until ACC declines your claim. You can contact an advocate before ACC makes a decision, or after a claim has already been declined.
Not sure where to start? We suggest contacting Wayfinders NZ on 0800 273 030.
Phone lines are open Monday to Thursday, 9am – 4pm, and Friday, 10am – 3pm.
If you have experienced sexual abuse or assault, ACC may provide funded counselling, therapy, and support. But for many people, the process can feel confusing, stressful, and emotionally overwhelming.
Trauma-informed ACC advocates can help support you through the process with care, privacy, and understanding.
They may be able to assist with:
• Sensitive claims that have been declined
• Accessing ACC-funded counselling and therapy
• Protecting your privacy throughout the process
• Navigating both recent and historical abuse claims
• Understanding your rights and available support options
If you have experienced sexual violence or abuse, ACC may provide funded counselling, therapy, and other forms of support. For many survivors, however, the ACC process can feel overwhelming, stressful, and retraumatising without the right guidance and support.
We recommend contacting Wayfinders NZ for help understanding the ACC process and the support options available to you.
WayFinders helps people navigate their ACC journey by providing guidance, information, advocacy support, and practical assistance throughout the claims process.
Their goal is to support and empower people with the knowledge they need, while also encouraging positive change within ACC where improvements are needed.
WayFinders is dedicated to compassionate, client-focused support and helping people feel informed, heard, and supported throughout what can often be a very difficult time.
Lump Sum Payments
If your injury has resulted in permanent impairment, you may be entitled to an ACC lump sum payment. Many people are unaware of their rights, how impairment is assessed, or whether their compensation has been calculated correctly.
ACC advocates and specialists can help you better understand the process and ensure your claim is properly assessed.
They may be able to assist you with:
• Understanding your entitlement to lump sum compensation
• Ensuring impairment assessments are completed correctly
• Avoiding common underassessment and underpayment issues
• Reviewing ACC decisions and medical evidence
• Accessing appropriate specialist reports and support
Many people seek independent guidance before accepting an ACC lump sum decision, especially in more complex or long-term injury cases.
Understanding Permanent Injury Compensation (PIC)
Permanent Injury Compensation (PIC), often referred to as a lump sum payment, is compensation for permanent impairment caused by a covered ACC injury.
Eligibility is based on permanent loss of function rather than disability itself. ACC assesses how much an injury has affected your physical or mental functioning over the long term.
To determine eligibility, ACC arranges an impairment assessment with a trained specialist using ACC’s Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment. The assessment results in an impairment rating percentage, which ACC then uses to determine whether compensation is payable.
Because the process can be complex and difficult to understand, many people seek independent guidance before or during an assessment.
We suggest contacting Wayfinders NZ for support navigating the ACC process and understanding your options.
WayFinders Navigation Services
0800 273 030