Workplace Accidents

In the current economic client, many workers’ are finding themselves under increasing pressure from their employers to meet heavier and heavier workloads, whilst at the same time having less resources and support available to do so. It is therefore hardly surprising that workers’ compensation claims involving workplace stress are on the rise. In fact, recent figures published by Safe Work Australia suggest that 95% of workers’ compensation claims for psychiatric injuries, in Australia, involve elements of work related stress.[1] This raises the question of in what particular circumstances a worker’s compensation claim based on workplace stress will be accepted?

The simple answer to this is, you should never sign anything unless you have read the document and agree with its contents.

WorkCover is the main insurer for injured workers in Queensland. WorkCover has the majority of policies for employers in Queensland but there are a small number of self-insurers.

Always lodge a workers’ compensation application – even if your injury is minor. If your employer tells you not to lodge an application, ignore their advice. Workers’ compensation is a RIGHT.

You have only six (6) months from the date of your injury to lodge an application. If you don’t apply within six months you can never receive compensation.