Workers Compensation

Your Rights regarding Workers Compensation

If you have been injured at work, this summary will provide you with basic information about what to do and your minimum legal rights and obligations.

We understand that it can be an extremely stressful time for an injured worker so SDA financial members should not hesitate to contact the Union for advice and support.

A large part of the Union’s work is assisting our members with workplace injuries and workers compensation claims.

Some quick tips:

• Don’t ever try to disguise the fact that you are injured.
• Likewise, don’t let anyone discourage you from following the correct procedures with workers compensation, especially by talking you into taking annual leave or sick leave to avoid having a lost time injury in your workplace.
• You have the right to make a workers compensation claim.
• You are under no obligation to participate in a diversionary employer injury scheme, e.g. employer provided physiotherapy in lieu of workers compensation.
• Similarly, don’t allow the employer to bully or persuade you to attend a company nominated treating doctor – you have the right to choose your own treating doctor.
• And when attending a medical appointment your employer does not have the right to be present during the appointment without your consent. Your employer may book an appointment immediately following yours if there is a need to discuss your injury and any proposed return to work (RTW) plan.

It is your life, your health and, sometimes, your future at stake.

Make sure that you reach out for assistance if you are feeling overwhelmed, and please offer assistance to your workmates and friends who have been injured at work.

If you do suffer an injury through the course of your work, please follow the guide below and if ever in doubt, members are encouraged to contact the SDA Office for advice and support.

Remember, if you are unsure of your rights around a workers compensation claim, if your claim is refused, payments cease or you need advice, please contact the SDA for assistance. Workers Compensation is a complex scheme and legislation is subject to change. Where necessary the SDA can refer members to our Workers Compensation lawyers or facilitate the appointment of an independent rehabilitation provider