ACC

University of Otago research has, for the first time, confirmed New Zealanders are indeed better off if they become disabled through injury rather than illness.

ACC's board has appointed a New Zealand executive from one of the world's largest insurance brokers as the corporation's new chief executive.

Almost a year after the Bronwyn Pullar scandal erupted, privacy breaches at the Accident Compensation Corporation remain "unacceptably high" chairwoman Paula Rebstock says.

Two Dunedin ACC claimants seeking damages over the wrongful search of their homes should receive a ''substantial amount'' of compensation, their counsel told the High Court at Dunedin yesterday.

High Court Justice Christian Whata yesterday highlighted an ''oddity'' linked to ACC's leading role in investigations during which search warrants were issued for the homes of two Dunedin ACC claimants.

Struggling workers and businesses could have benefited from almost half a billion dollars in ACC levy cuts this year if the Government hadn't disregarded Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment advice, it has emerged.

ACC fraudsters have ripped off taxpayers by more than $10 million in the past four years.

A big increase in injuries caused by falls at Dunedin homes is ''disturbing'' and more must be done to reduce them, ACC campaigner Denise Powell says.

Establishing an independent ombudsman to deal with ACC issues would restore some of the corporation's lost credibility and public goodwill, Dunedin ACC campaigner Dr Denise Powell says.

The wait for Christmas is nearly over but many Otago residents will continue to wait, not for Santa, but for a doctor.