New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) provides support if you’re injured in an accident. This includes treatment costs, rehabilitation, and up to 80% of your income if you can’t work.
However, many people assume ACC covers all health issues — which isn’t true.
Let’s break it down clearly.
ACC helps when injuries are caused by accidents, including:
ACC may also provide:
ACC generally does not cover illnesses or age-related conditions, including:
In short:
👉 If it’s not caused by an accident, ACC usually won’t help.
This is important because most serious health events in NZ come from illness, not accidents.
Personal insurance helps protect you where ACC stops.
Depending on your cover, insurance can provide:
Lump sums for critical illnesses (like cancer)
Income replacement if you can’t work due to illness
Mortgage repayments during recovery
Financial support for permanent disability
Life insurance payouts for your family
It can also help when:
ACC claims are delayed or declined
You want private healthcare and faster treatment
You need funds for non-Pharmac medicines
Your family needs financial stability after a serious diagnosis or death
Think of it this way:
ACC helps with accidents. Insurance helps with life.
Yes — they often complement each other.
For example:
ACC is valuable, but it has clear limits.
Relying on ACC alone can leave you financially exposed if illness, disability, or death occurs. Having the right insurance in place gives you and your family long-term security, peace of mind, and options when you need them most.
For personalised guidance on closing your ACC coverage gaps, speak with Billig – NZ Trusted Financial Advisor.
👉 Book your consultation today to review your situation and build a protection plan tailored to your needs.
Your future deserves clarity — and confidence.
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