Can You Make a Work Injury Claim After Resigning?

June 16, 2026

Yes, resigning from your job does not automatically prevent you from making a WorkCover claim or pursuing a workplace injury claim. What matters is whether the injury arose out of, or in the course of, your employment and whether applicable time limits have been met.

What If I Left My Job Before Reporting the Injury?

Many workers do not realise the seriousness of an injury until after they have left their employment.

This can occur with:

  • Back injuries
  • Repetitive strain injuries
  • Psychological injuries
  • Shoulder injuries
  • Knee injuries

In some situations, workers may still be able to pursue a claim even though they are no longer employed by the company where the injury occurred.

Does Resignation Affect My Entitlements?

Resignation and workers’ compensation are separate issues.

The fact that a worker has resigned does not automatically mean:

  • The injury is not work-related
  • A claim cannot be lodged
  • Medical treatment is no longer relevant
  • Rights relating to the injury have ended

The specific circumstances of the injury and employment history remain important.

What Evidence Should I Keep?

If you’ve left your employment, it can be helpful to retain:

  • Employment records
  • Medical certificates
  • Incident reports
  • Emails and correspondence
  • Payslips and employment documents

These records may assist in establishing the history of the injury and employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I resigned because of my injury?

Some workers leave employment because they can no longer perform their duties due to their injury. The circumstances surrounding the resignation may be relevant.

Can I claim years after leaving a job?

Time limits may apply, which is why it is important to seek advice as early as possible.

Related Information

External Resources:

Kathryn MacDonell

Chief Executive Officer

Kathryn is Trilby Misso’s Chief Executive Officer.

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