The simple answer to this is, you should never sign anything unless you have read the document and agree with its contents.
WorkCover is the main insurer for injured workers in Queensland. WorkCover has the majority of policies for employers in Queensland but there are a small number of self-insurers. WorkCover and the self-insurers in Queensland are governed by the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003.
The powers of WorkCover or a self-insurer in relation to an injured worker are governed by this Act and the Regulations that accompany this Act.
If WorkCover or a self-insurer have asked you to sign a statement then it is essential that you have read and agree with the version provided. If it is incorrect or is not how your injury occurred then you should amend it and not sign it until the amended version is provided. If you do sign a statement or any other document you should keep a copy of it so that you are aware of exactly what you have signed.
As part of the Application for Compensation process, there are obviously forms that need to be completed. These days these forms are often completed over the phone or online. An Application for Compensation should be lodged and the contents of that form be checked by the injured worker. If that form is completed by any other person, it is again essential that the injured worker ensure that the contents of the document are correct. If you have trouble completing these kinds of forms or wish assistance with this form, please do not hesitate to contact our firm and we can assist with completing / checking these forms. If an injured worker signs a form without checking it, it makes it very difficult down the track to disagree with what is contained in that document.
As outlined above, the golden rule is simply only sign documents that you have checked and agree with and keep a copy of them. If you are unsure whether you should sign any document, please do not hesitate to contact our firm.
To process and receive workers’ compensation in Queensland, it will be necessary for you at times to sign or lodge documents. Without doing that your Application cannot be processed.
Should you ever find yourself in a position outlined above, we invite you to contact our office to discuss your rights.