What is ‘WorkCover’ and how does it affect me?
Here is an overview of what WorkCover help is available to you if the worst happens.
When you are working to provide for yourself or your family, the last thing you should worry about is what will happen to you if you are injured at work or travelling to work. Each state and territory in Australia has different regulations when it comes to insuring your workers against injury. In Queensland, WorkCover is the initiative which protects injured workers.
What is WorkCover QLD?
WorkCover is a Queensland Government owned initiative which supports Queenslanders and their employers by providing workers compensation insurance. In a nutshell, it provides compensation for injured workers if they are injured at, or travelling to work. WorkCover insurance is paid for by the employer. It is illegal in Queensland to not protect your employees.
When companies have WorkCover insurance, they have access to the myriad of services that are included by the Government run Workcover Queensland department. This includes a dedicated officer who manages claims and claim forms, customer service as well as managing payments to your injured employees.
As an employee it means you are covered for lost wages, medical expenses and rehabilitation if you are injured at work. It also will ensure you are protected if you suffer a long term permanent impairment due to a work injury.
What insurances do WorkCover offer?
WorkCover encompasses many different types of insurance for workers injury claims. These are available to employers to ensure their unique circumstances are looked after. After all, the type of insurance and policy taken out by employers will depend on the type of work being carried out.
Key types of WorkCover insurances include:
- Accident insurance – insures workers against work-related injury or illness. It is the most common type of insurance.
- Household worker insurance – this type of insurance exists for workers who are carrying out their job in a private dwelling (house/apartment). Employers of these workers need to ensure they are covered if their workers are injured on the job.
- Workplace personal injury insurance – this insurance exists if you are not covered under your company’s accident policy because you may not be considered a worker. For example this may apply to directors or sole traders.
What if my employer is self-insured?
An employer may take a different route other than WorkCover to insure their employees. To do this, they must meet strict criteria and be able to pay for all claim costs. Employers who self-insure will offer the same protections as WorkCover. If you are in this situation you can rest easy knowing you are covered.
Can I get help for asbestos-related health problems through WorkCover?
Can I get WorkCover help if I was injured travelling to work?
WorkCover vs. TPD – What’s the difference?
What happens if I am injured at Work? What should I do next?
If you are injured at work, you should immediately inform your employer and start your claims process. This process can involve a few steps and will be managed by a WorkCover claims worker. It is essential all the required documents are provided for a successful claim.
This is where we can help you. Here are Super Claims Assist, we can discuss how we can assist you file your WorkCover claim form. We will take you through all of the required steps so it is a seamless process for you, whilst you recover. You may be eligible for a lump sum payout! Don’t delay your workers compensation claim any further, get in touch today and return to work sooner.
Teachers claiming WorkCover is common for both physical and mental injuries. No matter your profession, you should explore your entitlements!
What are the legal implications for employers who don’t have WorkCover?
In QLD, it is mandatory for all employers to have workers’ compensation insurance through WorkCover or a licensed insurer.
If an employer doesn’t have WorkCover insurance for their employees, they could face legal and financial consequences:
- Fines: Employers who fail to have workers’ compensation insurance can be fined by the Workers’ Compensation Regulator. The amount of the fine depends on the size of the business and the length of time the employer has been without insurance.
- Legal action: If the employer doesn’t have workers’ compensation insurance, the employee can take legal action against the employer. The employer could be held liable for the costs associated with the employee’s injury.
- Criminal charges: In some cases, employers who fail to provide workers’ compensation insurance may face criminal charges. This could result in fines, imprisonment, or both.
In addition to the above, failing to provide workers compensation insurance can cause serious reputation damage.
Overall, it’s important for employers in Queensland to ensure they have workers’ compensation insurance through WorkCover or a licensed insurer. This is to protect their employees and avoid common law claims made against them.