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Injured Workers Compass Australia

I've been injured at work. What happens next?

The first steps: tell your employer, see a doctor, get a certificate and lodge a claim.

Last reviewed

In one sentence

Report the injury, see your own doctor, and lodge a claim as soon as you can — delays can affect your rights.

What this means

If you were hurt at work, or a condition was caused or made worse by work, you may be covered by workers' compensation. This is a no-fault system in most of Australia — you usually do not have to prove your employer did anything wrong.

Workers' compensation can pay for some of your lost wages, your reasonable medical treatment and help to return to work. Which rules apply depends on the state or territory you work in, or whether you work for the Commonwealth.

You can usually choose your own doctor. Your doctor gives you a certificate (often called a Certificate of Capacity) saying what work, if any, you can do.

Things to know

  • Tell your employer about the injury as soon as possible, and keep a written record.
  • See your own doctor and ask for a workers' compensation certificate.
  • Lodge a claim form with your employer or insurer — keep copies of everything.
  • Write down what happened, when, where and who saw it.

Common questions

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.

What you can do next

  1. 1Report the injury to your employer in writing and keep a copy.
  2. 2Book an appointment with your own GP and ask for a workers' compensation certificate.
  3. 3Complete and lodge the claim form for your scheme.
  4. 4Keep a diary of symptoms, appointments, costs and phone calls.

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.