Workers compensation
How SIRA allied-health treatment works
In plain language
SIRA sets the rules and fees for allied-health treatment inside NSW workers-compensation and CTP claims. Here's how approvals, session limits and reviews work.
- SIRA publishes the fees and clinical framework — insurers pay providers directly.
- Treatment is approved in blocks (usually 8 sessions) via an Allied Health Treatment Request.
- Progress is reviewed against functional and return-to-work goals, not pain scores alone.
What SIRA covers
The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) is the NSW regulator for workers compensation and compulsory third-party (CTP) motor-accident insurance.
SIRA publishes the fees allied-health providers can charge and the clinical framework practitioners must follow. If your claim is accepted, the insurer pays your physiotherapist directly at those fees — you don't pay a gap.
The Allied Health Treatment Request (AHTR)
After the initial assessment, your physiotherapist submits an AHTR to the insurer. It sets out the diagnosis, treatment plan, expected number of sessions and functional goals.
Most requests are approved within 5 working days. If the insurer needs more information, we respond promptly so treatment isn't delayed.
Reviews and return to work
Progress is measured against goals such as lifting capacity, sitting tolerance and hours worked — not just pain. Regular liaison with the treating doctor, employer and insurer keeps everyone aligned.
Next steps
References
- SIRA workers compensation fees & guidelines — SIRA NSW
- SIRA clinical framework — SIRA NSW