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
What applies to me?
Your plain-English action plan
Step 1 · Your situation
Step 2 · Your state or scheme
Step 3 · Your next steps
What happens if I suffer another injury?Western Australia
In one sentence
A new injury, an aggravation, or a condition caused by your original injury may each be claimable.
Your next steps
- 1Tell your employer and insurer about the new injury in writing.
- 2Ask your doctor to document the cause.
- 3Lodge a new claim form if required.
- 4Get advice if the insurer says it is 'pre-existing'.
- 5Contact WorkCover WA (1300 794 744) for free information about how the WA scheme applies to you.
- 6If you disagree with a decision — WorkCover WA's Conciliation and Arbitration Services handles disputes.
- 7Watch the time limits — Claims should be made as soon as possible.
- 8Consider getting independent legal advice before signing anything or accepting a settlement.
How WA works
- Weekly payments
- Based on pre-injury earnings, with a step-down after 13 weeks for some workers, and limited by a prescribed amount.
- Medical expenses
- Reasonable medical and related expenses are covered up to a prescribed limit, with extensions available in some cases.
- Permanent impairment
- Lump sums are payable for permanent impairment based on an approved medical specialist's assessment.
- Free legal help
- WorkCover WA's advisory service, unions and community legal centres provide information and assistance.
Questions you may have
I had a bad back before. Can I still claim?
Often yes, if work aggravated, accelerated or worsened the condition. The rules vary by scheme.
Do I need a new claim form?
For a new injury, usually yes. For a consequential condition, ask the insurer how they want it notified, and put it in writing.
What if I change employers?
Injuries with a new employer usually go to that employer's insurer. Disputes about which employer is responsible are common — get advice.
Support available to you
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
Services Australia – Disability, Sickness and Carers
Centrelink line for the Disability Support Pension, sickness-related payments and carers.
Covers: National
Government agencies & regulatorsFree Verified
WorkCover WA Advisory Services
Free information for WA workers, plus Conciliation and Arbitration Services for disputes.
Covers: WA
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.