In the first 24 hours
1. Get medical attention. This is the most important step. Go to a hospital emergency department for serious injuries, or see your GP for non-emergencies. Tell your doctor exactly how the injury happened at work — be specific about the task, the environment, and the mechanism of injury. Ask for a WorkCover medical certificate.
2. Report it to your employer. Tell your employer (or supervisor) about the injury. Do it in writing — an email or text message creates a record. Even if your employer says "don't worry about it" or "we'll handle it internally," you need a written report on the record.
3. Document everything. Take photos of the injury, the location where it happened, any faulty equipment or hazards involved. Write down what happened in your own words while it's fresh. Note the names of any witnesses.
In the first 7 days
4. Lodge your WorkCover claim. Don't wait. Weekly payments can only be backdated about 20 business days from lodgement, and delays make it harder to gather evidence. You can lodge online at WorkCover Queensland's website, by phone, or your employer can submit it on your behalf.
5. Follow your doctor's advice. Attend all appointments. If you're told not to work, don't push through pain. If your employer pressures you to come back early, that's a red flag — and something we can help with.
6. Keep records. Start a simple diary noting your symptoms each day, any appointments, any conversations with your employer, and how the injury is affecting your daily life. This becomes valuable evidence later.
In the first 30 days
7. Respond to insurer requests promptly. WorkCover may ask for additional information or medical records. Respond quickly — delays from your end can slow the whole process.
8. Know your rights about IMEs. WorkCover may arrange an Independent Medical Examination (IME) with their chosen doctor. You're generally required to attend, but you should know that your treating doctor's opinion also carries significant weight.
9. Consider getting legal advice. If your claim is straightforward and accepted quickly, you may not need a lawyer right away. But if there are any complications — rejection, delays, employer pressure, or a serious injury — early legal advice can prevent problems later.
Common mistakes to avoid
Don't delay reporting. Every day you wait makes it easier for the insurer to question whether the injury was work-related.
Don't give recorded statements to the insurer without preparation. You're not legally required to give a recorded interview to WorkCover. If they request one, consider getting legal advice first.
Don't post about your injury on social media. Insurers monitor social media. A photo of you at a barbecue can be used to argue you're not as injured as you claim.
Don't sign anything you don't understand. Whether it's from your employer or the insurer, read everything carefully. If you're unsure, get advice before signing.