NSW workers compensation covers a range of benefits and support for employees injured at work, including income replacement, medical expenses, rehabilitation, lump sum compensation for permanent impairment, and death benefits for dependent..
Weekly Payments (Income Support)
If your work-related injury affects your ability to work, you may receive weekly payments to cover lost income. The amount is based on your pre-injury average weekly earnings, your capacity to work, and how long you have been receiving benefits. There are different calculation periods after 13 and 130 weeks, reflecting changes in your work capacity and entitlement.
Medical, Hospital, and Treatment Expenses
Reasonable and necessary medical, hospital, and related treatment costs are covered if they relate to your work injury. This can include GP visits, surgery, specialist appointments, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, prescription medications, diagnostic tests, and travel expenses for medical treatment. Some treatments need approval from the insurer unless they are exempt, such as initial GP consultations.
Rehabilitation and Return to Work Support
The scheme funds rehabilitation programs, vocational retraining, work conditioning, and gradual return-to-work plans. Employers and insurers must actively assist injured workers in safely returning to suitable work. Support is available if your injury makes returning to your usual job difficult.
Lump Sum Compensation for Permanent Impairment
If your injury causes permanent impairment, you may be eligible for a lump sum payment. This applies when the injury has reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), and your level of impairment meets the minimum threshold—typically 11% Whole Person Impairment (WPI) for physical injuries, or 15% for psychological injuries.
Death Benefits and Funeral Expenses
If a worker dies from a work-related injury or illness, dependents may be entitled to a lump sum death benefit, ongoing weekly payments, and reasonable funeral expenses. These payments are designed to help families manage financially after a workplace fatality.
Domestic Assistance in Certain Cases
Where medically necessary and supported by a treating doctor, workers compensation may also pay for household help, such as cleaning or personal care, if the injury prevents you from managing daily tasks.
Why Seek Legal Advice?
Claiming workers compensation can be complex due to possible claim denials, disputes over benefits, or medical assessments. An experienced workers compensation lawyer can help you understand and maximise your entitlements, often at no cost under the Independent Review Office scheme.
Understanding these entitlements ensures you receive comprehensive support as you recover from a work injury in NSW. If you need more information or help with a claim, consult a local legal specialist or contact compensation support services.