If you’re injured at work in Western Australia, it can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. The Workers’ Compensation and Injury Management Act 1981 (WA) provides a framework to support you through the process.
Step 1: Report the Injury
The first step is to notify your injury to your employer. You can do this in person, in writing, by phone, or sometimes online. Then you need to fill out a Workers Compensation Claim Form. If you are unsure on how to complete this form, you can ask your employer for assistance or contacting WorkCover’s Advice and Assistance Service on 1300 794 744.
Step 2: Seek Medical Attention
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If you are injured at work in Western Australia, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible after the injury. Your doctor will assess your condition and provide a Certificate of First Capacity (CoC). The CoC is a medical report that outlines your capacity to work and any restrictions or limitations.
The CoC and the compensation claim form should then be given to your employer where they then will have 7 days to report the injury to WorkCover WA.
Step 3: Claim Benefits
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WorkCover WA will assess your claim to determine if you’re eligible for workers’ compensation. If your claim is accepted, you’ll receive benefits, such as:
- Weekly payments to support you while you recover
- Reimbursements for any medical expenses, such as doctor’s visits and medication
- Rehabilitation support to help you return to work.
What if my claim is rejected?
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If your claim is rejected, you can appeal the decision to WorkCover WA. You’ll need to provide additional information and evidence to support your claim.
What if I am approached by a Rehabilitation consultant?
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You may be approached by a Rehabilitation Consultant from your employer or a third-party service provider, such as us, Recovery Partners. A Rehabilitation Consultant is a professional who helps injured workers return to work safely and effectively.
The benefits of working with a Rehabilitation Consultant include:
- Personalised support and guidance throughout the recovery process
- Help in developing a return-to-work plan that suits your needs and current capabilities
- Regular progress updates and communication with your employer and other stakeholders.
At Recovery Partners, we provide workplace rehabilitation services to help injured workers recover and return to work as quickly and safely as possible. Our team of experienced Rehabilitation Consultants will work with you to develop a personalized return-to-work plan that meets your needs and goals.
Additional Resources
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For more information on workers’ compensation in Western Australia, you can visit the WorkCover WA website or contact them directly.
Want to find out more?
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Our services are available nationwide. For more information about our services contact us.
Our consultants love to have a chat, so go ahead and give us a call on 1300 OHS RTW (647 789) or email enquiries@rrp.com.au
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Disclaimer – these articles are provided to supply general safety information to people responsible for OHS in their organisation. They are general in nature and do not substitute for legal and/or professional advice. We always suggest that organisations obtain information specific to their needs. Additional information can be found at https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/Â