In 2023, Victorian teachers* lodged 1,520 workplace injury claims through WorkSafe, up from 1,260 in 2022 (WorkSafe claims statistical report). This data is subject to change due to claims developing, with injuries that have not yet been reported. However, they reveal the risks teachers face within our school environments.
*Refers to Pre-Primary School Teachers, Primary School Teachers, Secondary School Teachers, Special Education Teachers, University Lecturers And Tutors, Vocational Education Teachers, Extra-Systemic Teachers, and English As A Second Language Teachers.
Teaching has always been a demanding role, but rising pressures are creating workplaces where physical and psychological injuries are increasingly common. If you’re a teacher who has been injured at work, you may have the right to seek compensation and support.
Understanding Teacher Injuries
Physical Injuries
Schools are dynamic, physical spaces, and the nature of teaching can involve a range of risks. Common injuries include:
- Slips, trips, and falls in corridors, classrooms, or schoolyards
- Muscle strains or sprains from lifting heavy equipment or setting up classrooms
- Repetitive strain from time spent marking, typing, or standing
- Injuries while supervising sport, managing classroom incidents, or resolving student altercations
These injuries can result in long-term pain, time away from the classroom, and loss of income. In some cases, they may permanently affect your ability to teach.
Psychological Injuries
Psychological injuries are just as serious as physical ones, and just as valid under Victorian compensation law.
Carbone Lawyers have assisted teachers experiencing:
- Bullying or harassment from colleagues, students, or parents
- Gendered violence or emotional abuse
- Aggravation of pre-existing mental health conditions due to the workplace environment
These forms of harm can be isolating and are often minimised or overlooked. But with the right legal advice, you can be heard, and compensated.
What You’re Entitled to Under Victorian Law
Under WorkCover and workers’ compensation, most teachers in Victoria, whether employed in government schools, private institutions, or tertiary settings, are legally entitled to claim compensation for injuries sustained at work.
You may be eligible if your injury occurred:
- On school grounds during teaching hours or breaks
- At a camp, excursion, professional development day, or off-site event
- While travelling for work purposes
This applies to permanent, part-time, casual, and relief teachers, as well as support staff.
If your claim is accepted, compensation can include:
- Weekly income payments: up to 95% of your average weekly earnings for the first 13 weeks, and 80% thereafter
- Medical, hospital, and rehabilitation expenses
- Transport and accommodation related to treatment
- Modifications to your home or car if needed
- A lump sum payment for permanent impairment
- Common law damages if your injury is serious and your employer was partially or wholly at fault
Don’t Let the Anyone Undervalue Your Claim
Although WorkCover exists to protect injured workers, the process can be difficult, especially if you’re managing pain, mental health symptoms, or time away from school. Carbone Lawyers understands the challenges teachers face when navigating claims. We can assist with:
- Preparing accurate, well-supported claims
- Appealing rejected applications
- Pursuing additional entitlements where appropriate
- Protecting your rights if you’ve been pressured to return to work prematurely
Importantly, never accept a settlement or sign documents without legal advice. What you’re offered may be far less than what you’re entitled to.
Contact Carbone Lawyers for Support Today
Carbone Lawyers has decades of experience in personal injury law, including claims involving both physical and psychological workplace injuries.
We understand the nuances of school-based claims and will manage your matter with sensitivity, speed, and strategic expertise. From initial advice to final outcome, our team of experts are here to ensure your rights are upheld, your case is respected, and your compensation reflects the impact of your injury.
If you need legal advice or are unsatisfied with your current lawyers, Carbone Lawyers is ready to help. Call 1800 369 888.
