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
I've been injured at work. What happens next?Western Australia
In one sentence
Report the injury, see your own doctor, and lodge a claim as soon as you can — delays can affect your rights.
Your next steps
- 1Report the injury to your employer in writing and keep a copy.
- 2Book an appointment with your own GP and ask for a workers' compensation certificate.
- 3Complete and lodge the claim form for your scheme.
- 4Keep a diary of symptoms, appointments, costs and phone calls.
- 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
Do I have to prove it was my employer's fault?
Usually no. Workers' compensation is mostly no-fault. Fault can matter later if you consider a common law (negligence) claim.
What if I am a casual or a contractor?
Many casual workers are covered. Contractors may or may not be covered depending on the real nature of the working relationship and your state's laws. Ask your regulator.
Can my employer sack me for making a claim?
Most schemes have protections against being dismissed because of a work injury, especially in the first months. Fair Work laws may also protect you. Get advice quickly if this happens.
Support available to you
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
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.