WorkCover Claim Eligibility and Requirements

Understanding WorkCover Claim Eligibility and Requirements in Victoria

If you’ve been injured or become ill at work, the last thing you want to be worrying about is WorkCover claim eligibility and requirements. With over 30 years of experience in WorkCover and personal injury claims, the team at Carbone Lawyers are ready to guide you through this process. 

Below we aim to provide guidance and clarify who is eligible for WorkCover in Victoria, including the WorkCover claim requirements, ensuring you are well-informed and confident in pursuing your claim.

What is WorkCover in Victoria?

WorkCover in Victoria is a safety net offering insurance coverage for injured workers or those who become ill due to their employment. All Victorian employers must secure WorkCover insurance, so every employee is protected and employers are safeguarded against financial burdens stemming from work-related injuries.

Who is Eligible for WorkCover in Victoria?

WorkCover claim eligibility is not limited by the type of employment contract you have, including full-time, part-time, and casual employees, and in some circumstances, sub-contractors. 

The key criteria for eligibility include sustaining a workplace injury or illness, being classified as a “worker” under the act, and having your employment “in connection to Victoria”. 

It’s important to remember that WorkCover is a no-fault scheme. This means that compensation can be claimed regardless of who was at fault for the injury, provided you meet the above criteria.

WorkCover Claim Requirements

To lodge a WorkCover claim, you must first:

• Report the Injury: Inform your employer about the injury within 30 days of becoming aware of the injury. Despite this requirement, you can still potentially make a claim if you are outside the 30-day window.
• Seek Medical Advice: Consult with a doctor for an injury assessment, certificate of capacity (this is essential for claims seeking weekly payments), and to obtain the necessary treatment.
• Lodge the Claim: Submit a WorkCover claim form.

Regardless of how far along the claim process you are, a law firm that specialises in Personal Injury law and WorkCover claims can help you achieve a better result. Reach out to the team at Carbone Lawyers for a free claim assessment and to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

A Hypothetical Example

Imagine you’re a warehouse worker who has suffered a back injury due to lifting heavy boxes. After reporting the injury to your employer, contact the Carbone Lawyers team who help you collect the necessary evidence and prepare your claim. 

You visit your GP, who provides you with a WorkCover certificate of capacity. With this documentation, your lawyer helps lodge a WorkCover claim to cover your medical expenses and lost wages during your recovery period. You’re able to focus on getting better without worrying about financial burdens or complicated claims. 

What Benefits Does WorkCover Offer?

Under WorkCover, you may be entitled to various benefits, including:

• Compensation for lost wages at a percentage of your pre-injury earnings.
• Payment of medical and related expenses.
• A lump sum for permanent impairment, eligible no sooner than 12 months post-injury.

Contact Carbone Lawyers Today

If you’re uncertain about your eligibility for a WorkCover claim or need guidance on the claim process in Victoria, don’t hesitate to reach out to Carbone Lawyers. Our team of experienced legal professionals are ready to provide you with the support and advice you need to navigate the WorkCover scheme successfully.