Frequently asked questions for workers

What if my weekly benefits are delayed?

Compensation payments should commence within seven days of notification or 21 days of a claim being duly made through claim form and WorkCover medical certificate submission. If payments have not commenced you should:

  • speak to your employer
  • contact your Claims & Injury Assessor at HEM, or
  • phone the WorkCover Claims Assistance Service on 13 10 50

What if weekly benefit delays are foreseen but I need an income?

If weekly benefits are unduly delayed, enquire into utilising your sick or annual leave benefits. If liability for your claim is subsequently accepted, your leave entitlements can then be re-instated.

What if my doctor doesn't want to be nominated treating doctor?

HEM can assist you in finding a nominated treating doctor who is experienced in Occupational Health. Your doctor, Return to Work Coordinator or the union official at your workplace may also be able to suggest a doctor for you to nominate as your treating doctor.

My claim has been declined. What can I do?

When liability or further liability for a claim is denied, you will be notified in writing advising of the reasons and the evidence relied on when coming to the decision to decline. If you don’t agree with the decision, contact your Claims & Injury Assessor to make an application for review of the decision.

You may also seek assistance from:

You can also have the decision reviewed by the Workers Compensation Commission (if your claim was lodged on or after 1 January 2002) or the Compensation Court (if your claim was lodged prior to 1 January 2002).

Workers Compensation Commission
Level 21, 1 Oxford Street
DARLINGHURST NSW 2010
Phone: (02) 9243 8800 or 1300 368 040
Fax: (02) 9243 8801 or 1300 368 018
Web: www.wcc.nsw.gov.au

If my employer is not insured, can I make a workers compensation claim?

You may claim through WorkCover’s Uninsured Liability and Indemnity Scheme. The Uninsured Liability and Indemnity Scheme (ULIS) is operated by WorkCover NSW .

This Scheme pays eligible workers benefits under the Workers Compensation Act 1987, when they have suffered a compensable injury and their employer is uninsured.

What is fraud?

The legal definition of fraud is:

A course of action by deceit or other dishonest conduct involving acts or omissions or the making of false statements, verbally or in writing with the objective of obtaining money or other benefits or evading a liability.

What should I do if I suspect fraud?

To report a suspicious claim, or fraudulent activities by an employer or service provider contact WorkCover NSW on:

Telephone: 02 9370 5447
Facsimile: 02 9370 5755