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?Victoria
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 WorkSafe Victoria (1800 136 089) for free information about how the VIC scheme applies to you.
- 6If you disagree with a decision — The Workplace Injury Commission (formerly ACCS) provides free conciliation, and disputes can proceed to court.
- 7Watch the time limits — Report your injury to your employer within 30 days where possible and lodge a claim as soon as possible.
- 8Consider getting independent legal advice before signing anything or accepting a settlement.
How VIC works
- Weekly payments
- Generally 95% of pre-injury average weekly earnings for the first 13 weeks, then 80% up to 130 weeks. Beyond 130 weeks payments continue only if you have no current work capacity likely to continue indefinitely.
- Medical expenses
- Reasonable medical and like services are covered, usually up to 52 weeks after weekly payments end, with longer periods in some cases.
- Permanent impairment
- Impairment benefits are generally available at 10% WPI or more for physical injuries and 30% or more for psychiatric injuries (5% for some spinal injuries).
- Free legal help
- Unions, Victoria Legal Aid and community legal centres can help. WorkSafe Victoria provides information to workers.
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
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
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.