Workers compensation is an insurance scheme taken out by all employers, which covers their workers in the event of a work related injury or illness.

The law states that all employers must have a current Workers Compensation Policy. Unions can inspect these policies and also ensure that employers are paying the correct premiums.

Workers Compensation provides injured workers with:

Weekly payments when there is a loss of income.

Payment of medical, hospital and other expenses (including travel to and from treatment and rehabilitation expenses associated with return to work programs or retraining for another job).

The employer must have a Register of Injuries book

Must have a return to work program

Must provide a Workers Compensation Claim Form

Must pass on payments to an injured worker as soon as possible

Must provide suitable duties

Must not sack an injured worker before 26 weeks

An injured worker needs to report all injuries, either verbally written or electronically and have it entered into the injury register book

Need to obtain a WorkCover Certificate as soon as possible - clearly stating what the injury / illness is and take it to the employer  

You have the choice of treating medical officer and or rehabilitation Provider

Comply with your return to work plan

Co-operate with the insurer - particularly when reasonable requests to supply information requested on the claim form.

Attend if necessary medical examinations arranged or paid for by insurer / employer

You have the right to have your Union involved in the progress of your claim and in particular your return to work and issues that may arise.