Sciaccas have expert workplace injury lawyers in Brisbane who travel throughout Queensland providing advice for those needing legal help in Queensland.
We provide legal services to a range of clients, ensuring their rights are protected at all stages throughout the claims process.
Workers’ Compensation law in Queensland
Workplace injuries in Queensland mostly fall under workers’ compensation law. It is compulsory for all employers to have workers’ compensation insurance in the event an injury happens at work or during the course of employment.
It doesn’t matter if you were employed on a casual, part time, full time or on a contract basis – you may still be able to make a claim for workers’ compensation if you were injured at work.
If you lodge a workers’ compensation claim and it is rejected, Sciaccas can assist you in having that decision reviewed. If your claim is accepted but the Insurer rejects payment of surgery, we can assist you in having that decision overturned. There are very strict time limits that apply to overturning these decisions and you should contact us immediately. If this decision is not overturned you may be able to pursue a compensation claim.
If you are referred to a Tribunal by the Workers’ Compensation Insurer, we can attend this tribunal with you for peace of mind.
What types of injuries am I covered for?
There are many different types of injuries that occur in a workplace.
Broadly speaking, injuries covered by the workers’ compensation scheme in Queensland include:
- injuries suffered at work
- injuries suffered as a result of work or during work activities
- illnesses or diseases due to work
- illnesses or diseases made worse by work
- injuries suffered when travelling for work purposes
- injuries suffered while receiving treatment for a separate work injury
It’s important to note that injuries aren’t always physical. Psychological injuries or stress related injuries such as heart attacks or strokes may also be covered under the workers’ compensation scheme.
How much workers' compensation can I receive
How much you receive in compensation very much depends on your situation and the severity of your injuries. A lawyer should be able to give you a good idea of your rights once they know more about the facts of your case and your claim is investigated.
Will I lose my job if I make a claim?
It is against the law for an employer to dismiss an employee on the basis that they made a workers’ compensation claim.
That being said, if you’re no longer able to do your job because of illness or injury, it’s highly likely your employer will not be in a position to keep you in your job.
What can I claim compensation for?
The law surrounding workers’ compensation in Queensland allows an individual to claim for:
- medical and hospital expenses
- loss of income
- travelling expenses
- permanent impairment
- rehabilitation expenses
When should I approach a lawyer?
It’s important you get the right advice as soon as possible following an accident or injury at work. There are strict time limits which apply to workers’ compensation claims, and waiting too long may mean you lose your right to make a claim.
Waiting until after any WorkCover assessment is not necessarily in your best interests either, as a lawyer can work to position your case effectively to give you the best chance of maximising your entitlements.
It’s best to seek legal help as soon as possible.