Each year, thousands of volunteers across Victoria dedicate their time and energy to supporting our communities. Yet, when volunteers are injured while performing voluntary work, they often face uncertainty about their rights and compensation options.
Please note that most volunteers are not entitled to compensation if injured while volunteering. (WorkSafe Victoria)
If you’re a volunteer, understanding your entitlements under Victorian law is crucial. Learn more about WorkCover compensation, how to navigate your rights and the claims process.
Which Volunteers Have Protection
Volunteers strongly support Victoria’s emergency services and community networks. From fighting fires to providing disaster relief, they face immense challenges to protect and support others.
However, these vital roles can come with risks:
- Physical Hazards: Volunteers with organisations like the CFA and SES often encounter life-threatening conditions such as burns, fractures, and other physical injuries.
- Mental Health Challenges: Many are exposed to traumatic events, leading to conditions like anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). WorkSafe recognises these risks, offering provisional payments for mental health claims while they are being assessed.
Volunteers deserve protection, and ensuring they have access to compensation when injured is critical.
Are You Covered? Understanding WorkCover Rights
While Victorian law values the contribution of volunteers, not all are covered by WorkCover. Understanding your eligibility is essential to securing compensation.
Who Is Eligible?
Certain groups of volunteers are considered “workers” under Victorian legislation, making them eligible for WorkCover (WorkSafe Victoria). These include:
- CFA and SES Volunteers: Covered under the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 and Victoria State Emergency Services Act 2005.
- School and Student Volunteers: Protected by the Education and Training Reform Act 2006.
- Jurors and Police Assistants: Recognised under Acts like the Juries Act 2000 and Police Assistance Compensation Act 1968.
What About Non-Eligible Volunteers?
If you are not covered by WorkCover, you may still be able to pursue compensation through public liability claims under the Wrongs Act.
What Are Your Entitlements?
If you are eligible for WorkCover, several benefits are available to support you during your recovery. These entitlements aim to ease financial and emotional burdens:
- Weekly Payments: Compensation for income loss, covering up to 95% of your pre-injury average weekly earnings (PIAWE) during the first 13 weeks.
- Treatment Expenses: Coverage for reasonable medical costs, including physiotherapy, mental health support, and other approved services.
- Permanent Impairment Benefits: Lump-sum payments for volunteers left with lasting injuries.
- Provisional Payments: Support for mental health claims, offering up to 13 weeks of treatment expenses while your claim is being assessed.
These benefits ensure you have the support needed to focus on recovery.
Steps to Secure Compensation
Navigating the WorkCover claims process can be daunting, but understanding the steps can simplify it:
- Report Your Injury: Notify the organisation you were volunteering with immediately. Ensure the details are recorded in the injury register.
- Complete Documentation: Gather all necessary paperwork, including medical certificates, and fill out the WorkSafe Worker’s Injury Claim Form.
- Lodge Your Claim: Submit your claim within the required timeframe to avoid delays.
- Seek Legal Support: If your claim is rejected or delayed, professional legal assistance can help you challenge the decision effectively.
Acting quickly and seeking guidance ensures you don’t miss out on the compensation you’re entitled to.
Why You Need Expert Guidance
Even with clear eligibility, volunteers often face hurdles such as disputes over claims or proving their eligibility. These challenges can delay or deny compensation when you need it most.
Carbone Lawyers specialises in overcoming these barriers. With decades of experience in Victorian compensation law, we provide the expertise needed to secure your rightful entitlements. Our “No Win, No Fee” policy ensures you can pursue your claim without financial risk. Let us take the stress out of the process so you can focus on your recovery.
Your Rights Deserve Protection
From WorkCover eligibility to navigating claims, knowing the steps and seeking expert guidance can make all the difference. Carbone Lawyers is here to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. Call 1800 369 888 today or visit our website for a free consultation. With us by your side, you’ll have the support you need every step of the way.