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Lifeline 13 11 14

What applies to me?

Your plain-English action plan

  1. Step 1

  2. Step 2

  3. Step 3

My workers' compensation claim has been rejected.Northern Territory

In one sentence

A rejection is not always the final word — most schemes have review and dispute steps, often with short deadlines.

Your next steps

  1. 1Write the review deadline on your calendar today.
  2. 2Request the insurer's file and reports in writing.
  3. 3Ask your doctor for a report linking your injury to work.
  4. 4Contact a free legal service or workers' compensation lawyer.
  5. 5Contact NT WorkSafe (1800 019 115) for free information about how the NT scheme applies to you.
  6. 6If you disagree with a decision — Disputes go to mediation first, then the Work Health Court.
  7. 7Watch the time limits — Claims should be made as soon as possible.
  8. 8Consider getting independent legal advice before signing anything or accepting a settlement.
Check a deadline

How NT works

Weekly payments
Based on normal weekly earnings for the first 26 weeks, then a reduced percentage, with caps that depend on your circumstances.
Medical expenses
Reasonable costs of medical, surgical and rehabilitation treatment are covered.
Permanent impairment
Lump sum compensation is generally available for permanent impairment of 5% WPI or more.
Free legal help
NT Legal Aid, unions and community legal centres can help.
Read the full NT guide →

Questions you may have

How long do I have to dispute?

It varies by scheme and decision type. Check your decision letter and your state page, and act quickly.

Can I get the insurer's reports?

In most schemes you can request the information the insurer relied on. Put the request in writing.

Can I claim Centrelink while I dispute?

Often yes, but you may need to repay it from any compensation you later receive. Tell Centrelink about your claim.

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

Community & free legal servicesFree Verified

Community Legal Centres Australia

Find a free community legal centre near you anywhere in Australia.

Covers: National

Government agencies & regulatorsFree Verified

Fair Work Ombudsman

Information about workplace rights, dismissal and pay. Fair Work Commission deals with unfair dismissal and bullying applications.

Covers: National

Government agencies & regulatorsFree Verified

NT WorkSafe

Northern Territory regulator — information about the Return to Work scheme.

Covers: NT

Government agencies & regulatorsFree Verified

Services Australia – Disability, Sickness and Carers

Centrelink line for the Disability Support Pension, sickness-related payments and carers.

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.