Can you get workers’ compensation for psychological injuries?

Workers' compensation covers both physical and psychological injuries and diseases. An injured worker may qualify for compensation for psychological injuries like PTSD, anxiety, or depression if they meet the definition of a worker or deemed worker and if work significantly contributed to the injury. However, compensation might not be available if the psychological injury resulted from a reasonable decision or action taken by the employer.

If you think you have a workplace mental injury in Australia, follow these steps:

1. Report the Injury: Notify your employer about your mental injury as soon as possible.

2. Seek Medical Help: Visit a healthcare professional, such as a psychologist, for a diagnosis and treatment.

3. Document Everything: Keep records of all incidents, medical consultations, and communications related to your injury.

4. File a Claim: Submit a workers' compensation claim through your employer or the relevant state or territory authority.

5. Get Support: Access support services provided by your workplace or external resources.

For detailed guidance, visit your state's or federal workplace scheme body.

State-based worker’s compensation schemes

Australia has 11 main workers’ compensation schemes: one for each state and territory and three Commonwealth schemes.

• Australian Capital Territory: WorkSafe ACT  

• New South Wales: State Insurance Regulatory Authority (NSW) 

• Northern Territory: NT WorkSafe

• Norfolk Island: Norfolk Island Workers' Compensation Scheme

• Queensland: WorkCover Queensland

• South Australia: ReturnToWork SA

• Tasmania: WorkSafe Tasmania

• Victoria: WorkSafe Victoria

• Western Australia: WorkCover WA 

• Comcare

Cetas Psychology works under the worker’s compensation scheme as a WorkSafe Victoria treatment provider for psychological services.

Different laws govern each one and will vary in the way it operates.

Safe Work Australia is a national body for all workers’ compensation schemes in Australia.

For specific information on making a workers’ compensation claim please contact your workers’ compensation authority.