Have your say on ACC occupational diseases list

Published: 05 April 2023

MBIE is seeking suggestions for additions to ACC’s list of occupational diseases – work-related injuries caused by a gradual process, disease or infection.

Public consultation opened on 5 April 2023 and closes on 17 May 2023.

The list of occupational diseases in Schedule 2 of the Accident Compensation Act offers a streamlined route for people to access ACC cover. It was last updated in 2008.

Public consultation is part of the new framework for more regularly reviewing Schedule 2 to make sure it reflects New Zealand workers’ experience and the latest research on occupational health.

Cover for occupational disease is a fundamental part of the Accident Compensation Scheme. It is a requirement under the International Labour Organization’s Convention 42, to which Aotearoa New Zealand is a party. This acknowledges workers may have little control over work tasks or environments that cause disease, illness or injury and that some conditions may develop over time.

People or groups making a submission through the consultation can suggest extra diseases to include or other employment tasks or environments linked to a disease already on the list, and they will need to provide supporting research.

Any updates to Schedule 2 will be decided later this year with the review process also including an assessment by independent researchers and medical experts.

Submissions are due by 5pm on 17 May 2023.

MBIE media contact

Email: media@mbie.govt.nz