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:
Report the Injury: Notify your employer about your mental injury as soon as possible.
Seek Medical Help: Visit a healthcare professional, such as a psychologist, for a diagnosis and treatment.
Document Everything: Keep records of all incidents, medical consultations, and communications related to your injury.
File a Claim: Submit a workers' compensation claim through your employer or the relevant state or territory authority.
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
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.
