Workers' Compensation
Workers' compensation is the main system that supports people injured at work in Australia. Each state, territory and the Commonwealth runs its own scheme.
Lodging a claim
Tell your employer, see your doctor for a certificate, and lodge a claim form. Keep copies of everything you send and receive.
Weekly payments
Weekly payments replace part of your income while you cannot work, or can only work reduced hours. They are usually based on your earnings before the injury and reduce over time.
Return to work
Employers usually must help you return to suitable work, guided by your doctor's certificate and a return-to-work plan.
When benefits stop
Benefits can stop because of time limits, a change in capacity or an insurer decision. You can often ask for a review.
General information only. Rules change and depend on your circumstances. Check with your regulator or get independent legal, financial or medical advice about your situation.
Related situations
Guides for this topic
I've been injured at work. What happens next?
The first steps: tell your employer, see a doctor, get a certificate and lodge a claim.
Read the plain-English guideMy WorkCover payments have stopped.
Why weekly payments stop or reduce, what you can do, and other financial help that may exist.
Read the plain-English guideWhat happens if I suffer another injury?
New injuries, aggravations of existing conditions, and secondary (consequential) injuries.
Read the plain-English guideSupport
Services that can help
Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA)
Free, independent complaints service for disputes with super funds and insurers, including TPD and income protection.
Covers: National
Comcare
Commonwealth workers' compensation scheme — claims information and reconsiderations.
Covers: Cwlth
Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA)
Compensation, rehabilitation and support for current and former ADF members.
Covers: Cwlth
Fair Work Ombudsman
Information about workplace rights, dismissal and pay. Fair Work Commission deals with unfair dismissal and bullying applications.
Covers: National
NT WorkSafe
Northern Territory regulator — information about the Return to Work scheme.
Covers: NT
ReturnToWorkSA
South Australia's return to work scheme — information about claims and support.
Covers: SA