How does WorkCover Queensland work?
WorkCover Queensland is the insurer of most employers in Queensland. Some employers are larger and have their own insurance. Whether your employer is self-insured or insured by WorkCover Queensland, the same rules, procedures and benefits apply.
WorkCover and self-insurers are there as an insurer for any workers’ compensation claims brought by employees.
Workers’ compensation is available to workers injured in connection with their work. In other words, if you are injured at or because of work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation.
To access workers’ compensation, you should ask your doctor for a workers’ compensation medical certificate. This medical certificate will be given to your employer and insurer, commencing the WorkCover process.
What types of Workers’ Compensation are there in Queensland?
There are two types or phases to a workers’ compensation claim:
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- Statutory Workers’ Compensation Claim – through this claim you will be entitled to medical treatment and lost wages incurred as a result of injury or illness related to your employment. This works as a short term solution to help you immediately. You are entitled to this as long as you can establish that your injury or illness was caused at or because of work. It is not necessary that you establish fault or negligence to access the benefits offered under a statutory workers’ compensation claim.
- Common Law Claim – in this claim lawyers will work to seek compensation beyond that covered by the statutory claim. They will seek compensation for your injury and illness taking into account your injury and impact on your enjoyment of life, ability to work now and in the future, medical needs in the future and any assistance you may require. To be successful in a common law claim you must establish that the employer was a fault and was negligent in their duty to you.
By making an enquiry with our legal team, we can consider your unique circumstances and advise you of the best way to access workers’ compensation in Queensland.
Further information about making a WorkCover Claim in Queensland
https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/claims-and-insurance/compensation-claims/make-a-claim
