Problems and accidents can happen in all kinds of workplaces. If you are suffering from a work-related injury or have become sick due to your work, you may be eligible for worker’s compensation.
Worker’s compensation is a form of insurance payment to employees if they have had an injury at work or become ill as a result of their work.
It may include payments to cover a person’s wages while they are unfit to work, payments for rehabilitation services and payments for medical and hospital expenses. It may also include lump-sum payments to families for work-related deaths or permanent impairments.
What is the Worker’s Compensation Legislation and Rules in Western Australia?
The Workers’ Compensation and Injury Management Act 1981 (WA) (the Act) dictates the rights and obligations of the employer, injured worker and the worker’s compensation insurer. The Act also sets up the managing authority WorkCover WA and the subsidiary legislation sets the rules for all parties including the Conciliation and Arbitration services.
In Western Australia, your employer is required by law to hold workers’ compensation insurance (or be a registered self-insurer) to cover the cost of wages (weekly payments), medical treatment and rehabilitation (statutory expenses) while you continue to have an incapacity.
The definition of ‘injury’ is wide and does not necessarily require a specific incident (accident) as a pre-existing condition that is aggravated or accelerated as a result of your work may also entitle you to workers’ compensation.
Why Should I Speak to a Worker’s Compensation Lawyer?
There are many instances where people may need to speak to a qualified worker’s compensation solicitor to assist with their worker’s compensation claim. Perhaps:
• You are unsure whether your injury is severe enough to go through the worker’s comp process;
• You are unsure whether or not you are considered as a ‘worker’ under the law;
• You want to make sure you are correctly making a claim;
• You would like a lawyer to review any statements before you provide an answer;
• You would like to ensure you are receiving the correct compensation payment;
• You have had a worker’s compensation claim that has been denied;
• You have a pre-existing condition or injury;
• You are receiving other government benefits;
• You have a worker’s compensation hearing;
• Or maybe something just does not feel right…
If you need assistance with any of the above, call or email Anvil Legal to arrange an appointment today. We are an experienced, qualified and trusted law firm that specialises in employment law and worker’s compensation claims in Western Australia. Our office is located on the Ground Floor of 102 Beaufort Street in Perth and our standard business hours are 9 am – 5 pm Monday to Friday.