Workers compensation claim preparation checklist
Workers compensation schemes run state-by-state with different insurer structures and dispute bodies. This checklist walks through the standard claim preparation.
This is a 12-step preparation checklist for an Australian workers compensation claim. It covers notification, certificates of capacity, treatment, weekly benefits, and the common law damages pathway.
The checklist
Identify the scheme
Identify the applicable scheme based on the state of employment — iCare NSW, WorkSafe VIC, WorkCover QLD.
Notify the employer
Notify the employer of the injury as soon as practicable.
Obtain certificate of capacity
Obtain an initial certificate of capacity from the treating GP.
Lodge the claim form
Lodge the initial claim form with the employer and the scheme insurer.
Check injury arose in employment
Confirm the injury arose in or out of the course of employment, including journey claims where applicable.
Document weekly earnings
Document pre-injury average weekly earnings to calculate weekly benefits.
Collect medical evidence
Collect GP notes, specialist reports, imaging, and any independent medical exam reports.
Monitor return to work
Monitor the return to work plan and suitable duties offered by the employer.
Request insurer decisions in writing
Request all insurer decisions in writing and check review deadlines.
Assess permanent impairment
Arrange an independent impairment assessment once the injury reaches maximum medical improvement.
Consider common law claim
Assess eligibility for a common law damages claim based on the impairment threshold and negligence evidence.
Brief on dispute pathway
Brief the client on the dispute body — PIC NSW, WCC VIC, QIRC QLD — and relevant timeframes.
When this checklist applies
Use this checklist at the start of any workers compensation matter, particularly where weekly benefits are disputed or common law is being considered.
Common pitfalls
- Missing the whole person impairment threshold for common law
- Certificates of capacity gaps breaking weekly benefit entitlement
- Not identifying journey claims under state provisions
- Weak evidence on pre-injury average weekly earnings
- Employer offering unreasonable suitable duties without challenge
Run this checklist on a real matter
Quillio drafts workers comp claim forms, medical chronologies, and common law assessment memos. See /practice-areas/family-lawyers or start a free trial.
This checklist is a general guide. Workers compensation schemes are state-specific — always confirm the applicable Act and thresholds.
Use this checklist on your matter.
Quillio can run this checklist on a specific NSW conveyancing matter — confirm each item, calculate adjustments, and generate the supporting documents. The free trial requires no sales call.
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