Kathryn MacDonell
Chief Executive Officer
Kathryn is Trilby Misso’s Chief Executive Officer.
Meet KathrynYes, a worker who suffers a physical or psychological injury because of a workplace assault may be entitled to make a WorkCover claim. Workplace assaults can occur in many industries and may involve customers, clients, patients, members of the public, contractors or co-workers. Depending on the circumstances, an injured worker may also have rights relating to a workplace injury claim.
What Counts as a Workplace Assault?
A workplace assault may involve:
- Physical violence
- Threats of violence
- Aggressive physical contact
- Being struck by another person
- Certain incidents resulting in psychological injury
The circumstances of each incident are important when determining whether an injury is work-related.
Can Psychological Injuries Be Covered?
Potentially, yes.
Not every workplace assault causes visible physical injuries. Some workers experience ongoing psychological symptoms following a traumatic event.
Examples may include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Sleep disturbances
- Emotional distress
- Trauma-related symptoms
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical advice as soon as possible.
What Should I Do After a Workplace Assault?
Important steps may include:
- Seeking immediate medical attention.
- Reporting the incident.
- Obtaining medical records.
- Recording details of the event.
- Keeping copies of correspondence and reports.
Early documentation often assists in establishing what occurred and how the injury arose.
Does It Matter Who Assaulted Me?
Workplace assaults can involve:
- Customers
- Patients
- Clients
- Visitors
- Contractors
- Co-workers
The key issue is often whether the injury arose out of, or in the course of, employment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim if the assault happened off-site?
Potentially. Some work-related incidents occur away from the employer’s premises. The circumstances of the event will be important.
What if there were no witnesses?
A lack of witnesses does not necessarily mean an incident did not occur. Medical records, reports and other evidence may still be relevant.
Related Information
External Resources:
“Do I have a claim?”
“Do I have a claim?”
Use this simple online tool and find out if you have a claim in less than thirty seconds. You can choose to remain anonymous.
Your next step is a small one, but don’t delay
Your next step is a small one. All you need to do is give us a call on 07 3910 5470 or complete this form here to arrange a quick chat.
During this initial conversation, we will:
- Have a chat about your circumstances.
- Give you an approximate indication of your eligibility for compensation.
- Explain, in simple terms, how our process works. We will answer any questions you have about fees, the legal process, and anything else you’re unsure about relating to your circumstances.
We understand that taking legal action can be stressful, and we’ll do all we can to ease your concerns.
The chat can take place at our place, your place, or by phone. There is no cost, no pressure, and no obligation.
Call 07 3910 5470 or fill out this form, and we’ll get back to you within 2 hours (during business hours). We look forward to meeting you.
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