Who can claim for workers’ compensation?
WorkCover Queensland is generally the default insurer for all injured workers in Queensland. If you were working as a subcontractor or for yourself (as opposed to being a full-time, part-time or casual worker), you may still be eligible. Speak to us to find out your rights!
You don’t need to be performing specific tasks when your injury occurs. Generally, you’ll be eligible to claim if you’re injured at work, on a break, while travelling for work purposes, or even attending work-related events.
Our WorkCover lawyers in Brisbane handle all types of workplace injury claims and cases. We’re proud to say that our success rate is exceptionally high – over 99%, in fact! Our unmatched workers’ compensation knowledge makes us the number-one choice for everyday Queenslanders seeking recovery support.
Get a FREE Claim AssessmentWhat does workers’ compensation cover?
If you’ve suffered a workplace injury and you have an accepted workers’ compensation claim, the insurer may be able to assist with the following types of compensation:
Weekly benefits to cover lost wages/time off work
Future loss of wages
Medical and rehabilitation costs
Lump-sum payments for severe or permanent impairment
Don’t suffer in silence. Let Rogalski Lawyers be your voice and trusted guide on your path to recovery. We’ll help you bounce back without the stress of lost income.
Common Workplace Injuries
Any workplace injury or accident can be challenging for you and your family to manage. Your living expenses and daily responsibilities don’t stop just because you can’t work – but that’s why WorkCover exists. The most common workplace injuries you can receive compensation for include:
- Spinal injury after manual handling
- Neck injury in the mines or on construction sites
- Psychological injury after being bullied or harassed by other colleagues
- A flare up of a previous injury due to a new incident at work
- Shoulder, hand or foot injury when using machinery
- Delayed onset injuries, such as asbestos and silica-related diseases
- Repetitive strains or other injuries that develop gradually over time
Every situation is unique, but the golden rule is to seek medical attention for all workplace accidents or injuries. If you are confused on what to do next, Rogalski Lawyers is here for you. Our lawyers are kind, approachable and committed to easing your healing and claims journey.
Should I seek legal guidance?
Generally, you should be entitled to a claim if your injury occurs at work, on the way to and from work, or while travelling for work. However, there are certain circumstances where your claim may be rejected or you need to take legal action.
That’s where the help of an experienced compensation lawyer really comes in handy. At Rogalski Lawyers, our track record in winning workers’ compensation claims speaks for itself. Our job is to take the hassle out of the claims process, allowing you to focus on a speedy recovery.
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Workers’ Compensation FAQs
How long does a WorkCover claim take in Queensland?
The duration of the claim depends on several factors, including the type of injury, the rate of your recovery, the date of injury, the complexity of the circumstances leading to injury, the state of medical evidence and more.
Our expert compensation lawyers can assist in making sure that these types of claims are efficiently progressed and finalised promptly.
What evidence should I document after a work injury in Queensland?
When dealing with any workplace injury, we recommend documenting everything you can from the time of the injury, including:
- Photographs of the incident location
- Contact details of any witnesses
- All medical records from your initial treatment
- Copies of the email or letter you send to your employer detailing the nature of the injury
- Any correspondence between yourself, your employer, medical professionals and your workers’ compensation lawyers
Unfortunately, WorkCover claims are usually complex, so you should retain as much documentation as possible.
How long can I stay on workers’ compensation in Queensland?
While many wish for a quick return to work after an injury, some recoveries take much longer. WorkCover payments can replace lost wages for an extended period—up to five years under Queensland law.
If your recovery extends or medical advice suggests no full recovery, additional payments like total and permanent disability or lump sum compensation might be available. Each case varies – we’re here to guide you through this potentially overwhelming process.
What if my Queensland Workers’ Compensation claim is rejected?
A worker has three months from the date they receive a decision from WorkCover Queensland (or the respective Queensland workers’ compensation self-insurer) to apply for review of the decision. If you do not lodge a review in this timeframe, it will likely mean that you will be barred from reviewing the decision forever.
What is an independent medical examination (‘IME’)?
IMEs are organised by the insurer for a few reasons but mainly to assess the recovery of your physical or psychological injury and to determine whether maximum medical improvement has been achieved.
How long does the authorised insurer have to accept or reject my claim?
WorkCover Queensland or any self-insurer in Queensland must decide on any compensation application lodged by a worker within twenty business days after receiving it.
My employer promised to pay for any ongoing expenses if I don’t lodge a WorkCover claim. What should I do?
We strongly do not recommend entering into any informal arrangements like this one with the employer. There are strict time limits that apply to WorkCover claims and your legal entitlements may be extinguished if you wait too long. It is important that you seek legal advice if a situation like this one arises.