Workers Compensation

If you have an accident or are injured at work or by work you may be entitled to claim Workers' Compensation. You may be able to claim for medical expenses and ongoing treatment. If you have to take time off work because of your injury or accident, you will be entitled to be paid for the time off until you are fit to return to work.

You should check the SA Workcover website or NT Government Workers Compensation information website

Workers' Compensation claims can sometimes be complicated. It is very important that you know what your rights and entitlements are. Sometimes employers are not sure what the laws are either!

Your ASU Workplace Rep or ASU Organiser can help ASU members with advice or let you know who to speak to for information and assistance. If you need to appeal a claim that has been rejected we can refer you to our lawyers for assistance and advice.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q What do I do if I am injured at work? Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible after it happens. This can be done verbally or, preferably, by completing a Notice of Work Related Injury Form. These forms are available from the ASU Office, or from your employer and some Post Offices. It is also a good idea to advise your ASU Workplace Representative if you have been injured.

Q What if I am not sure that the injury/condition is work-related? It is possible to have a 'nagging' injury that just seems to creep up on you and you are not sure what is causing it - overuse injuries often have this characteristic. If you have any suspicion that it might be related to work you should report the injury.

Q Should I report any injury, whether or not I will need to proceed with a claim for compensation? Yes. Whether or not you intend to claim for compensation, you should report all accidents and injuries to your employer. Make sure you keep a copy of the report.

Q Do I have to supply a medical certificate if I am off work with the injury? If you are going to claim compensation for medical expenses or time off, yes. Don't confuse Workers Compensation with general sick leave. If your absence is work-related and you don't want to lose sick days then you must get a Workers Compensation Medical Certificate from your doctor - even for one day's absence.

Q What happens if my claim is rejected? You may be able to appeal your claim. Make sure you get advice from the Union Office.

Q Can I go to the doctor of my choice? Yes you can choose which doctor treats you. However you may be required to go and see other doctors by your employer's Workcover insurer or by your employer's workers compensation unit if your case is being investigated. If you refuse to go your claim might be rejected.

Contact Details
ASU-SANT
Ph:  08 83631322
Fax: 08 83632225
union@asu-sant.asn.au