What Does TAC Cover for Physiotherapy?

Under an accepted TAC claim, physiotherapy is covered as a reasonable and necessary treatment for injuries sustained in the accident. This can include:

• Initial assessment and diagnosis
• Hands-on treatment (manual therapy, soft tissue work, joint mobilisation)
• Exercise therapy and rehabilitation programs
• Hydrotherapy where clinically appropriate
• Home exercise programs and education
• Progress reports for your TAC case manager
• Return-to-function and return-to-work support

As with WorkCover, there should be no out-of-pocket cost for physiotherapy under an accepted TAC claim – the TAC pays your physiotherapy provider directly at the approved fee schedule rate.

How to Access TAC Physiotherapy

Step 1 – Report the accident
Report the accident to Victoria Police if it hasn’t already been reported. You’ll need a police event number for your TAC claim.

Step 2 – Lodge your TAC claim
Claims can be lodged online at tac.vic.gov.au, by phone, or through a hospital if you were admitted. There are time limits for lodging – generally within 12 months of the accident, though earlier is always better.

Step 3 – See your GP
Your GP will assess your injuries and can refer you to physiotherapy as part of your treatment plan. Your GP acts as your primary treating practitioner and coordinates your overall care.

Step 4 – Choose a physiotherapist
You have the right to choose your own physiotherapy provider. Let them know you are a TAC client – they will confirm your claim and bill the TAC directly.

Step 5 – Begin treatment
Once your claim is accepted and your physiotherapist has confirmed TAC billing, treatment can begin with no upfront cost to you.

Do I Need a Referral for TAC Physiotherapy?

A formal GP referral is not always required to access physiotherapy – you can contact a physiotherapist directly. However, your GP plays an important role in your overall TAC claim and treatment coordination. Having your GP involved ensures your injuries are properly documented and your physiotherapy is aligned with your broader recovery plan.

If you’re unsure, contact your TAC case manager or speak with your physiotherapist – they are experienced in navigating the TAC system and can guide you on what’s needed.

How Many Sessions Does the TAC Cover?

The TAC does not set a fixed number of physiotherapy sessions. Treatment is covered based on what is reasonable and necessary for your specific injuries. Your case manager may request progress reports at regular intervals to review your ongoing treatment needs.

If your recovery is taking longer than expected, your physiotherapist can provide clinical documentation to support continued treatment. It is important to maintain regular communication with your TAC case manager throughout your claim.

Can I Access Mobile TAC Physiotherapy?

Yes. Mobile physiotherapy – where your physiotherapist comes to your home – is available under a TAC claim, provided it is clinically appropriate for your situation.

Mobile TAC physiotherapy is particularly relevant if:

• Your injuries affect your ability to drive or travel to a clinic
• You have lower limb injuries, fractures, or post-surgical restrictions
• You are managing multiple injuries that make transport difficult and tiring
• You live in an area where accessing a clinic requires significant travel

At Khy Physio, we provide mobile TAC physiotherapy across Melbourne’s eastern and western suburbs. We come to your home, assess your injuries in your own environment, and deliver evidence-based rehabilitation with $0 travel fees within our service area.

TAC Physiotherapy and Your Recovery Goals

TAC physiotherapy is designed to support you in returning to your pre-accident level of function – whether that means returning to work, resuming daily activities, or managing longer-term effects of a serious injury.

Your physiotherapist will:

• Assess the specific injuries sustained in the accident
• Set rehabilitation goals tied to your functional needs
• Progress your treatment as your recovery advances
• Provide reports for your TAC case manager as required
• Communicate with other treating practitioners (GP, specialist, occupational therapist) as needed

For more serious injuries involving neurological damage, spinal injuries, or significant fractures, physiotherapy may form part of a longer-term multidisciplinary rehabilitation program.

Common Injuries Treated Through TAC Physiotherapy

TAC claims cover a wide range of transport accident injuries, including:

• Whiplash and neck injuries
• Back and spinal injuries
• Shoulder, knee, and other joint injuries
• Fractures and post-surgical rehabilitation
• Soft tissue injuries
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI) rehabilitation
• Nerve injuries affecting limb function
• Chest and rib injuries

If you suffered multiple injuries in the accident, your physiotherapist can address all injury areas within your TAC-funded sessions.

What If Your TAC Claim Is Disputed?

If the TAC disputes your claim or declines to fund treatment, you have the right to request an internal review. You can also seek advice from a TAC lawyer – many offer free initial consultations for transport accident victims.

In the interim, if you need urgent physiotherapy, your GP may be able to refer you under a Medicare Chronic Disease Management plan, or private health insurance may provide partial coverage while your claim is being resolved.

For other funding options that may apply to your situation, see our guide to physiotherapy funding options in Australia.