Eligibility for WorkCover in Queensland
Workers in Queensland are covered by a statutory insurance scheme that assists when a worker is injured and in this article, we provide some information on how this scheme may be accessed.
What is WorkCover?
WorkCover is a Queensland scheme created to protect workers by providing benefits for workers who sustain an injury in their employment.
For a WorkCover claim to be accepted the following needs to be satisfied:
- The worker must be an employee (or a contractor if they are working under a contract of service).
A contract of service may include a person who:
- is paid by a salary or wage;
- works for only one employer;
- has set hours of work;
- is supervised; and
- may be disciplined or dismissed by the employer.
- The worker must have a diagnosed injury;
- The injury must have been sustained due to a significant contributing factor by the employer; and
- The worker must have suffered loss.
WorkCover aids workers who have their claim accepted during their recovery and provide support to return to work.
Have you been injured at work?
You may have a claim for compensation through WorkCover Queensland if you have suffered an injury at or because of your workplace. An injury includes a physical or psychological injury.
Who can make a WorkCover claim?
Any worker based in Queensland or employer that is based in Queensland is eligible to make a claim.
Time Limits
You have six months from the date of the injury to notify WorkCover and make a claim. If a WorkCover application is rejected, you have three months from the date of the decision to request a review of the decision.
What does WorkCover include?
You can be eligible to be compensated for loss of wages, medical expenses and rehabilitation.
What are the first steps to making a WorkCover claim?
The first step in relation to making a WorkCover claim is to make an appointment with your GP and obtain a Queensland Workers’ Compensation medical certificate.
Once you obtain the Queensland Workers’ Compensation medical certificate the next step is to lodge a claim with WorkCover.
There are several ways you can lodge a claim with WorkCover including:
- Complete and submit an online claim. The online service can be accessed via the following link:
- Phone 1300 362 128 and talk to a member of the WorkCover team.
- Complete a claim form located on the WorkSafe website and either upload using our online service, fax it to 1300 651 387 or post your completed form to GPO Box 2459, Brisbane Qld 4001.
Once you lodge the claim with WorkCover they will be in contact with you regarding the claim and the next steps required.
How can we help?
If you are unsure whether you have a claim for WorkCover or have any questions about sustaining an injury at work, our employment law team can assist you with any query you may have. We can also assist with making submissions to WorkCover and in seeking review of decisions.
