The Lifetime Support Authority (LSA) delivers the Lifetime Support Scheme (LSS), which was established under the Motor Vehicle Accidents (Lifetime Support Scheme) Act 2013 (SA).

Commencing on 1 July 2014, the LSS funds necessary and reasonable treatment, care and support for people who sustain serious injuries in a motor vehicle accident on South Australian (SA) roads, regardless of fault. The services are focused on being person-centred, financially sustainable, innovative and efficient.

Serious injuries including brain and spinal cord injuries, amputations, burns and blindness can require a lifetime of support to help people recover and maximise their independence in the community. On average, the LSS is projected to accept approximately 50 new participants each year. This equates to a person entering the LSS around every eight days.

The LSS Fund is funded by a levy that is paid whenever a motor vehicle owner registers a motor vehicle in SA. The amount collected by the LSS Fund Levy in any given year is intended to cover all necessary treatment, care and support for all participants who have a accident in that year (and meet the criteria for acceptance into the LSS), for the duration of their participation in the LSS.

What does the LSS provide?

Through the LSS, the LSA funds necessary and reasonable treatment, care and support to LSS participants for injuries caused by the motor vehicle accident, such as:

  • public and private hospital treatment (including acute and rehabilitation hospitals)
  • medical treatment (e.g. doctor’s appointments and pharmaceuticals)
  • dental treatment
  • rehabilitation (e.g. physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy)
  • ambulance transportation
  • respite care
  • attendant care and support services (e.g.  personal care and domestic services)
  • aids and equipment (e.g.  wheelchairs, mobility aids, adjustable beds, respiratory equipment and communication devices)
  • prostheses
  • education and vocational training
  • home, vehicle and workplace modifications.
Page last updated: 25 August 2020