The Human Rights Commission Mediation Hearing - The National Foundation for the Deaf

The mediation hearing for The National Foundation for the Deaf combined case of 6 claimants who have been declined hearing aids by ACC for work-related Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) was held today with the Human Rights Commission. The NFD met with representatives from the Crown Law Office, ACC and the Department of Labour.

“It was a good mediation for the exchange of information. The parties were well briefed on each other’s positions on ACC’s application of the 6% threshold of hearing loss from NIHL and on part payments for hearing aids,” says NFD CEO Louise Carroll. “However, the mediation was unable to resolve the issues as the problem lies with the ACC Amendment Act and its regulations.”

The mediation process is now concluded and the next step to be discussed by NFD Board is whether to lodge proceedings with the Human Rights Review Tribunal.”