Psychologists & mental healthFree Verified
13YARN
24/7 crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, run by Mob for Mob.
Covers: National
What applies to me?
Your plain-English action plan
Step 1 · Your situation
Step 2 · Your state or scheme
Step 3 · Your next steps
Where can I find support in my state?Commonwealth Schemes (Comcare, Seacare, DVA)
In one sentence
Help is available in every state and territory — much of it free and independent of the insurer.
Your next steps
- 1Open your state page to find your regulator and dispute body.
- 2Browse the support directory filtered to your state.
- 3Save the key phone numbers in your phone.
- 4Reach out to a peer support group.
- 5Contact Comcare (1300 366 979) for free information about how the Commonwealth scheme applies to you.
- 6If you disagree with a decision — Request reconsideration by Comcare or your employer, then apply to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART).
- 7Watch the time limits — Reconsideration requests generally must be made within 30 days of receiving the decision.
- 8Consider getting independent legal advice before signing anything or accepting a settlement.
How Commonwealth works
- Weekly payments
- Incapacity payments are based on normal weekly earnings, stepping down over time, and can continue until pension age in some cases.
- Medical expenses
- Reasonable medical treatment costs are covered for accepted conditions.
- Permanent impairment
- Permanent impairment compensation is generally available at 10% WPI or more (lower for some injuries such as fingers, toes, taste and smell).
- Free legal help
- Unions, Legal Aid and ex-service organisation advocates (for DVA) can help. Open Arms supports veterans and families: 1800 011 046.
Questions you may have
Is the insurer on my side?
The insurer manages the claim and makes decisions. Regulators, free legal services and advocates are independent sources of help.
I'm struggling emotionally. Where can I go?
Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 any time, Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, or 000 in an emergency. Your GP can also help with a mental health plan.
Are there groups for injured workers?
Yes — several injured worker support networks and union-based groups run peer support. See the directory.
Support available to you
Government agencies & regulatorsFree Verified
Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA)
Free, independent complaints service for disputes with super funds and insurers, including TPD and income protection.
Covers: National
Advocacy & peer supportMembership Verified
Australian Unions – Join or Get Help
Unions can provide advice, advocacy and referrals for members injured at work.
Covers: National
Psychologists & mental healthFree Verified
Beyond Blue
Support for anxiety, depression and mental health, with phone and online counselling.
Covers: National
Government agencies & regulatorsFree Verified
Comcare
Commonwealth workers' compensation scheme — claims information and reconsiderations.
Covers: Cwlth
Community & free legal servicesFree Verified
Community Legal Centres Australia
Find a free community legal centre near you anywhere in Australia.
Covers: National
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.