After sustaining a workplace injury, you should:

• Notify your employer: Inform your supervisor or manager about the injury as soon as possible, ideally within 30 days.
• Seek medical attention: Visit a healthcare professional to assess and document your injury.
• Record the incident: Ensure the injury is documented in your workplace's injury register.

To lodge a WorkCover claim:

1. Obtain a claim form: Access the Worker's Injury Claim Form from your employer, local post office, or the WorkSafe Victoria website.
2. Complete the form: Fill out Part A of the form with accurate details of your injury.
3. Submit the form: Provide the completed form to your employer, who will fill out Part B and forward it to their WorkSafe agent.
4. Include medical certification: Attach a Certificate of Capacity from your doctor if you're unable to work.

WorkCover provides several benefits, including:

• Weekly payments: Compensation for lost wages during your recovery.
• Medical and like services: Coverage for medical treatments, rehabilitation, and associated costs.
• Lump-sum payments: For permanent impairments resulting from the injury.
• Return-to-work support: Assistance in transitioning back to your job.

Yes, it's crucial to:

• Notify your employer: Within 30 days of becoming aware of the injury.
• Lodge the claim: As soon as possible after the injury. Delays can complicate the process, but claims can still be accepted even if lodged months or years later.

If your claim is rejected, you can:

• Seek clarification: Request detailed reasons for the rejection from the insurer.
• Request a review: Apply for a review of the decision through the Accident Compensation Conciliation Service.
• Obtain legal advice: Consult a lawyer specializing in workers' compensation for guidance.

Yes, you have the right to select your own treating healthcare professionals, including your doctor, physiotherapist, and other specialists. Ensure they are aware of WorkCover requirements and can provide the necessary documentation.

A Certificate of Capacity is a document completed by your treating doctor that outlines:

• The nature of your injury.
• Your capacity for work.
• Recommended treatment plans.

This certificate is essential for processing your WorkCover claim and determining your eligibility for benefits.

WorkCover covers psychological injuries arising from work, such as stress or trauma. To claim:

• Seek medical assessment: Obtain a diagnosis from a qualified healthcare professional.
• Provide documentation: Ensure your Certificate of Capacity includes details of the psychological injury.
• Lodge a claim: Follow the standard WorkCover claim process, including all relevant information.

WorkCover offers return-to-work support, including:

• Rehabilitation services: Programs to help you regain work-related skills.
• Workplace modifications: Adjustments to your work environment to accommodate your injury.
• Retraining opportunities: Assistance in acquiring new skills if you cannot return to your previous role.

If your injury resulted from employer negligence and is deemed a serious injury, you might be eligible for a common law claim, which can provide:

• Pain and suffering compensation: For the impact on your quality of life.
• Economic loss damages: For past and future loss of earnings.

Strict time limits and criteria apply, so seek legal advice promptly.