What is a Sensitive Claim?
A sensitive claim is an ACC claim for mental injury caused by sexual abuse or assault. ACC recognises that sexual violence can cause significant emotional and psychological harm, and provides cover for treatment and support. These claims are handled by a specialised team at ACC with training in trauma-informed practice.
Who Can Make a Sensitive Claim?
Anyone who has experienced sexual abuse or assault can make a sensitive claim with ACC, including:
- Survivors of rape or sexual violation
- Survivors of childhood sexual abuse
- Survivors of sexual assault (including historical abuse)
- Survivors of sexual harassment that involved assault or physical contact
There is no time limit for making a sensitive claim — you can apply many years after the abuse occurred.
What Treatment Does ACC Cover?
Once a sensitive claim is accepted, ACC covers treatment from registered professionals:
- Counselling: Trauma-focused counselling with a registered counsellor, psychologist, or psychotherapist
- Therapy: Longer-term therapy (e.g., cognitive behavioural therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic therapy)
- Psychiatric care: If needed, ACC can fund a psychiatrist (including medication management)
- GP visits: Related to the mental injury
- Other support: In some cases, cultural support or community-based services
ACC funds up to approximately $5,000–$6,000 per year (updated regularly) for therapy sessions. If you need more, you can apply for additional funding.
How to Apply
The sensitive claims process is designed to be less formal and more supportive than other ACC claims:
- Speak to a health professional — a GP or counsellor who can support you.
- Screening: The health professional completes a "Cover Assessment" form with you, describing the sexual abuse and the mental injury.
- ACC assesses the claim — the sensitive claims team reviews it. They may ask for more information from the health professional.
- Decision: If accepted, ACC approves ongoing treatment and assigns a case manager.
- Find a therapist: You can choose a registered therapist who works with ACC. ACC covers the sessions.
Confidentiality and Privacy
ACC takes confidentiality extremely seriously with sensitive claims. Your claim information is handled by specially trained staff, and ACC will not contact you without your consent regarding how best to communicate. You can choose to use a pseudonym with ACC if that makes you more comfortable.
Support Organisations
Beyond ACC, the following New Zealand organisations can help:
- Help Auckland 24/7 Crisis Line: 0800 623 1700
- Rape Crisis: 0800 88 33 00
- Safe to Talk (24/7): 0800 044 334 — a free sexual harm helpline
- Victim Support: 0800 842 846
- Shine (domestic abuse): 0508 744 633