WorkSafe Victoria and Mental Health: What Injured Workers Need to Know
WorkSafe Victoria and Mental Health: What Injured Workers Need to Know
Workplace injuries are not only physical. Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress can develop after an accident or during recovery. WorkSafe Victoria provides pathways for injured workers to access psychological treatment.
When WorkSafe Covers Psychological Treatment
Secondary mental injury: If a physical injury leads to psychological distress, WorkSafe may cover reasonable psychological treatment costs.
Primary mental injury: Claims can also be made where the psychological condition itself is the main injury. These must meet specific eligibility criteria.
Provisional Payments
WorkSafe can provide up to 13 weeks of psychological treatment while a mental injury claim is being assessed - so workers don’t have to wait for full claim approval before seeking treatment.
Treatment Plans
If more than a few sessions are required, a psychologist will prepare a treatment plan for approval by the WorkSafe Agent.
Finding a Psychologist
Workers can do self-directed research and or ask their GP for a referral to a registered psychologist. This is not currently a WorkSafe Victoria Psychologist directory.
Why Early Support Matters
WorkSafe’s WorkWell program highlights that early treatment leads to better outcomes and faster return to work.
At Cetas Psychology, we are experienced in supporting WorkSafe clients. If you’re unsure about eligibility, talk to your GP or contact us for guidance.
Note* this article was updated in September 2025 and should not replace official information found on the WorkSafe Victoria website
