What is Workers Compensation?

Workers Compensation helps people who have been hurt or injured at work to receive the compensation they deserve.

Unfortunately many people are injured at work every year due to negligence and unsafe work practices, despite everyone having the right to a safe working environment.

Any worker who suffers from an injury or disease arising from or during their employment has (in most cases) a right to compensation under the Workers Compensation Act 1951 (ACT).

Whether it’s a fall at work, a mental health condition brought on by stress, or an injury caused by your working conditions over a period of time (such as a repetitive strain injury or RSI), the workplace injury lawyers at MEJ will guide you through the process so you can understand your rights and any compensation you are entitled to.

We also provide specific advice for people who been injured on construction sites.

 

The claim process

The good news is that the ACT Workers Compensation system is more generous than other States and Territories. The bad news is that this also makes it more complex. MEJ’s workplace injury lawyers can guide you through the workers compensation process.

This means when you are considering a workers compensation claim, it is important to seek advice from work injury specialists to achieve the compensation you deserve.

You can organise a free, no obligation consultation with us online or by phone.

What to do when you are injured at work

  • 01.

    Call 000 if immediate medical help is required.

  • 02.

    Remain calm and notify your employer as soon as possible.

  • 03.

    Visit a doctor if you need to seek treatment for your injuries.

  • 04.

    Complete all necessary compensation forms as quickly as possible – ideally within 48 hours.

  • 05.

    Call MEJ’s experienced team for a free, no obligation consultation if you believe you have a legal case.

“The result was outstanding.

I cannot thank James & Jack enough for their professionalism and relentless pursuit of the matter and have no hesitation in highly recommending MEJ to anyone seeking representation in any liability matter.”

— John

Frequently Asked Questions

Do not let that discourage you from seeking advice. In the ACT, workers compensation is generally available regardless of fault, meaning that even if your employer believes you contributed to your own injury, you may still be entitled to benefits covering your medical expenses and lost income.

Employers and their insurers have a strong interest in minimising liability, and an early assertion that you were at fault should never be taken as the final word.

At MEJ, we will look carefully at the circumstances of your injury and give you an honest, informed view of your entitlements, so you can make decisions based on facts, not pressure.

No. It is unlawful for an employer to dismiss you, or to take adverse action against you, because you have exercised your rights following a workplace injury. These protections exist precisely because injured workers can feel vulnerable about coming forward, and the law recognises that.

If you have been dismissed, threatened, or treated differently after making or indicating an intention to make a workers compensation claim, please contact us as soon as possible.

You may have rights beyond your compensation claim, and we can help you understand all of your options.

Yes. Psychological injuries are recognised and compensable under workplace injury law, and they deserve to be taken just as seriously as physical ones.

Work-related psychological injuries can arise in many ways, such as from a traumatic incident at work, prolonged exposure to a hostile or high-pressure environment, bullying or harassment, or the psychological impact of a physical injury. Whatever the cause, if your mental health has been genuinely affected by your work, you may be entitled to compensation.

We understand that coming forward about a psychological injury can feel particularly difficult. There is still stigma attached to mental health, and many people worry about not being believed. At MEJ, we will listen carefully and without judgement, and we will work hard to make sure your injury is properly recognised and valued.

It depends on the nature and severity of your injuries, how quickly your condition stabilises, and whether any aspects of your claim are disputed.

For most injured workers, the process begins with an application for workers compensation benefits, covering medical expenses and income replacement, which can often be accessed relatively quickly after an injury. More complex claims, particularly those involving serious or permanent injuries or disputed liability, may take longer to resolve.

Early advice makes a real difference. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can help you access the benefits you are entitled to and begin building the strongest possible foundation for your claim, whatever form that ultimately takes.