A commonly asked question we get asked is ‘how long can you be on WorkCover?’ If you have been injured and are unable to work, you may be concerned that you won’t be covered for the full amount of time you are unable to work.
Below, is information on WorkCover questions like how long does WorkCover last and how long after a work-related injury can I claim.
We have a team of personal injury experts who will work with you to ensure you get what you are entitled to and will be able to answer any questions you have regarding WorkCover including how long can you stay on WorkCover and how long after a work-related injury can I claim.
How Long Does Workcover Last?
How long can you stay on WorkCover will depend on how long you are unable to work however, how long does WorkCover last is as follows:
Weeks 1 – 13
You are entitled to the lesser amount of 95 percent of your pre-injury average earnings or the maximum weekly benefit for the first 13 weeks that you are unable to work.
After 13 Weeks
After the first 13 weeks, your weekly benefits will reduce to the lesser amount of 80 percent of your pre-injury earnings or the maximum weekly benefit.
130 weeks is how long WorkCover lasts so you are entitled to receive payments up until that time.
At 130 weeks
At 130 weeks your condition will need to be independently evaluated to determine whether you still qualify for WorkCover payments.
Your weekly payments will cease unless you can prove that your work injury impairment is likely to continue indefinitely.
Lump-Sum Benefits
After a year, you may qualify for a lump sum benefit if you have either a permanent physical impairment that is greater than 5% (musculo-skeletal) or 10% (other physical injuries such as scarring), or a permanent primary psychological impairment that is greater than 30%.
Other compensation you may be entitled to that can be covered by WorkCover:
- Any treatment received from medical practitioners (including treatments by specialists)
- Necessary medication and medical supplies
- Domestic assistance services
- Emergency ambulance services
- Any costs related to rehabilitation
- Travel costs that are as a result of your work injury
Common-Law Claims
In addition to WorkCover payments, you may also be able to make a common law claim after 18 months.
You will need to prove that your injury was the fault of another party to be eligible for a common law claim.
Talk to Our Experts About Workcover
Contact us on 1800 369 888 or fill out our online enquiry form to arrange an appointment with one of our personal injury experts who will be able to speak with you about how long can you stay on WorkCover and how long after a work-related injury can you claim.