Skip to content
Lifeline 13 11 14

What applies to me?

Your plain-English action plan

  1. Step 1

  2. Step 2

  3. Step 3

Am I entitled to a lump-sum compensation payment?Northern Territory

In one sentence

There are different kinds of lump sums — some are set by a table, others depend on proving negligence.

Your next steps

  1. 1Check your scheme's lump-sum and common law thresholds.
  2. 2Keep records of all financial losses.
  3. 3Get a free first consultation with a workers' compensation lawyer.
  4. 4Ask about all costs in writing before signing a costs agreement.
  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 much could I get?

It depends on your scheme, impairment and losses. Be cautious of anyone who promises a figure without assessing your case.

Can someone other than my employer be responsible?

Yes — for example a negligent driver, a host employer or a manufacturer. These are sometimes called third-party claims.

Will Centrelink want money back?

Possibly. Compensation can create a Centrelink preclusion period or repayment. Get advice before settling.

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

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.