Queensland’s two work injury pathways explained: statutory WorkCover benefits, common law damages, the lump sum election and the time limits that apply.
Workers compensation is designed to protect people when they’re injured at work. But if you’re an independent contractor in Queensland, things aren’t always straightforward. Many contractors assume they’re covered the same way as employees, only to find out after an accident that the rules are very different. This confusion can have huge consequences. Getting it … Read more
After a successful workers’ compensation claim in Queensland, returning to work involves more than just showing up. It’s supported by legal protections, structured planning, and clear responsibilities for both employers and employees. In 2024, Safe Work Australia recorded over 139,000 serious work injury claims, with the average time off work sitting at around 7 weeks. … Read more
If you’ve suffered a psychological injury due to sexual harassment at work, you may be entitled to workers compensation. Sexual harassment can cause serious emotional and mental harm, and the law recognises this. In this article, we explain your rights, how the workers compensation system applies to sexual harassment, and what steps you need to … Read more
In 2024, the average temperature in Queensland climbed to 31.3°C, 1.4°C higher than the average from 1960 to 1990. In these temperatures, working in the heat presents serious health risks for thousands of workers across industries, especially during summer. From construction sites to farms, factories to schools, heat-related illnesses affect productivity and can lead to … Read more
Australia has one of the highest rates of asbestos-related deaths in the world, a legacy of the country’s extensive use of asbestos before its 2003 nationwide ban. Estimates show that asbestos-related diseases account for 4000 deaths in Australia each year, according to a 2023 paper published in Sustainability. For Queensland workers who have developed diseases … Read more
Teachers play a vital role in shaping our society, yet they face increasing risks of workplace injuries and illness. In Queensland, the education and training sector saw the most significant rise in workers’ compensation claims, with a notable increase of 16.3% in 2022-2023 v in 2021-2022 (Worksafe, 2023). Many of these claims are linked to … Read more
In the current professional climate, workplace bullying is an ongoing issue that impacts as much as 1 in 10 employees, according to WorkSafe Queensland. This detrimental behaviour not only harms employees but also disrupts the overall health of organisations. In this article, we will consider the signs, consequences, and available legal avenues for addressing workplace … Read more
In Queensland, the rise of the gig economy has fundamentally changed the landscape of work. Gig workers—individuals involved in short-term, flexible roles frequently facilitated through digital platforms—are increasingly becoming a crucial component of the workforce. Nonetheless, the nature of gig work introduces distinct challenges regarding workers’ compensation. This article explores the complexities of workers’ compensation … Read more
Two cases, Apelu v Lusty Tip Trailers Pty Ltd QSC 262 and Apelu v Lusty Tip Trailers Pty Ltd QCA 158, involve a worker seeking damages for injuries sustained in a workplace accident, including both physical and psychiatric injuries. The first case, QSC 262, is the initial decision made by the Supreme Court of Queensland. … Read more
At ROC Legal, we have helped numerous clients who have suffered injuries during their daily commute to or from work in Queensland. These types of claims, known as “journey claims,” can be complex and challenging to navigate without proper legal guidance. In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about … Read more
At ROC Legal we have extensive experience in handling workers’ compensation claims in Queensland, We have seen countless cases where injured workers face the daunting prospect of having their claims rejected or their payments unexpectedly ceased by WorkCover. This article aims to guide you through the next steps you can take if you find yourself … Read more
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common work-related injury that affects thousands of Queenslanders each year. This debilitating condition, caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist, can result in pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers. If you’ve developed CTS as a result of your work duties, you may be … Read more
Workers’ compensation schemes around Australia, including in Queensland, operate as a vital safety net for employees who sustain injuries or illnesses in the workplace. But navigating the claims process can be complex, and many people who make a claim under the scheme can inadvertently fall into common pitfalls that can hinder their chances of receiving … Read more
Pursuing a claim for compensation if you’ve been injured can be a time-consuming and arduous process, particularly if you’re recovering from injury while balancing the demands of work and family. It’s for this reason many people want some idea about how much money they should expect from a claim to work out whether it is … Read more
What is a journey claim? In Queensland, a journey claim refers to a legal right that allows workers to seek compensation for injuries sustained during a journey to and from their workplace. These journeys can include commuting between home and work, traveling to off-site meetings, or running work-related errands. Under the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation … Read more
An injury at work claim is your right in the event of an accident. As most of us go about our daily commute to work, few would give a second thought to what could go wrong in our places of work, let alone the likelihood of being seriously injured (or worse) at work. Unfortunately, for … Read more
