Every summer, Australian firefighter battle destructive fires, risking their lives to protect homes and communities. But while the flames are visible, dangers and symptoms to long-term occupational diseases can go unnoticed.
Behind every fire is exposure to harmful substances including chemicals, carcinogens, smoke and dust. These hazards pose short-term risks but also impact the long-term health of firefighters, potentially leading to serious and sometimes life-threatening diseases that can emerge years after service.
If you’re a firefighter dealing with a work-related illness, or a family member concerned about a loved one, it’s important to understand legal rights and the entitlements through Victoria’s WorkCover scheme.
Occupational Dangers to Firefighters
Whether responding to structure fires, industrial accidents or clean-up operations, firefighters are regularly exposed to substances known to cause disease. These exposures can lead to serious health conditions, including:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) from inhaling smoke, diesel fumes and toxic gases
- Asbestosis and Silicosis, caused by airborne particles like asbestos and silica
- Cancers, including:
- Mesothelioma
- Lung cancer
- Skin cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Leukaemia and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
For many, symptoms don’t appear immediately. These conditions develop gradually, often going unrecognised until the illness is advanced.
Understanding Your Rights Under Victoria’s Workcover Scheme
In Victoria, the WorkCover scheme recognises that diseases caused by work, along with pre-existing conditions made worse by employment, may be grounds for compensation. If you’ve developed an illness related to firefighting duties, you may be eligible for:
- Weekly income payments
- 95% of your average weekly earnings for the first 13 weeks
- 80% thereafter, for up to 130 weeks or longer in some cases
- Payment for medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Ambulance and transport costs
- Modifications to your home or vehicle, if needed
- Lump-sum compensation for permanent impairment
It’s important to note that eligibility isn’t restricted to full-time employees. Part-time firefighters, contractors, volunteers and those on work experience may also be covered.
If you have income protection through your superannuation, you may also be able to claim through that policy. Carbone Lawyers can help assess all of your entitlements across WorkCover and superannuation.
Legal Hurdles When Claiming Disease-Related Compensation
Occupational disease claims can be more difficult than other WorkCover claims. Illnesses often develop slowly, making it harder to provide evidence for workplace exposure. This can lead to delays, reduced payments or claim rejections.
Some firefighters hesitate to make claims due to concerns about the process. Others may accept early settlement offers without understanding their full legal rights.
Psychological injuries, such as PTSD, depression and anxiety, are also common and equally valid under WorkCover if related to your role.
It’s important to know that once you accept compensation or sign documents, your ability to claim further may be limited. Always seek legal advice before making decisions about your claim.
Let Carbone Lawyers Fight For The Compensation You Deserve
Carbone Lawyers specialise in complex WorkCover claims, particularly those involving disease, chemical exposure and psychological injury.
We can assist with:
- Lodging a WorkCover claim correctly the first time
- Appealing a rejected or underpaid claim
- Claiming lump-sum compensation for serious injury
- Pursuing common law damages where applicable
- Accessing income protection and superannuation payouts
We know what it takes to establish the connection between your illness and your service. Our team works closely with medical professionals and understands the legal processes required to receive all compensation you’re entitled to.
Contact Carbone Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one is living with a serious illness linked to firefighting, don’t face the system alone. You may be entitled to more support than you think.
Our No Win, No Fee policy also means there are no upfront legal costs. You’ll only pay if we win your case. You’ve spent your time protecting others. Now it’s time we protect your rights.
Contact Carbone Lawyers today. Call 1800 369 888.
