WorkCover is a type of insurance that covers all Australian workers, offering compensation for any injury or illness picked up at work no matter whose fault it was. Each company is required to provide this insurance for its staff – any part-time, full-time, or casual staff are covered.

WorkCover insurance may cover medical expenses, loss of income, rehabilitation, lump sum payments, and legal costs.

     WorkCover in your state
Each state operates differently when it comes to this scheme.

• WorkCover ACT – run by WorkSafe ACT
• WorkCover NSW – run by WorkCover Authority of NSW
• WorkCover NT – run by NT WorkSafe
• WorkCover QLD – run by WorkCover Connect, WorkCover Queensland
• WorkCover SA – run by ReturnToWorkSA
• WorkCover TAS – run by WorkSafe Tasmania
• WorkCover VIC – run by WorkSafe Victoria
• WorkCover WA – run by WorkCover WA

     Making a WorkCover claim
To make a WorkCover claim, you will need to see a doctor regarding your injury or illness, and report the injury or illness to your employer in writing within 30 days of the injury or illness. Your workplace will have an accident book/register. You do not need to have taken work off for the injury or illness, but you may be able to claim medical expenses, so attach an invoice if you lodge a claim with your employer directly.

If you take time off work, you will need a medical certificate from your doctor. Your employer has 10 days to send the claim to a WorkCover agent. You can get a claims form at any post office, doctor, or WorkCover Authority.

     When you need a lawyer
If your claim is rejected or you don’t receive a response, having a lawyer advocate for you can speed things up and get better results. You will need to approach Vanessa Ash (or your lawyer) within 60 days of your injury or illness, however, as there are time limits. If for some reason an injury or illness doesn’t become apparent until later, talk to Vanessa Ash. We can help.

Write your own story. Call Vanessa Ash and Associates today.