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I work at a meat processing plant in Western Australia, and my hand was caught in a machine roller. The factory did not send me to the hospital for an examination and stated that I would not be paid during the downtime, only covering medical expenses. How should I proceed to claim wages for the downtime and other compensation?

I'm sorry to hear about your injury. In Australia, employees who are injured at work have several rights and entitlements, including workers' compensation. Here's how you can proceed to claim wages for the downtime and other compensation:

Steps to Take

1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if the factory did not send you to the hospital initially, you should seek medical attention immediately to ensure proper treatment and documentation of your injury.

2. Report the Injury: Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible in writing. Keep a copy of the report for your records.

3. Workers' Compensation Claim: In Western Australia, you are entitled to workers' compensation for injuries sustained at work. This includes coverage for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and compensation for lost wages during your recovery.

Legal Entitlements

1. Medical Expenses: Your employer should cover all necessary medical expenses related to your injury.

2. Weekly Payments for Lost Wages: You are entitled to receive weekly payments to compensate for lost wages while you are unable to work due to your injury. The amount is generally a percentage of your average weekly earnings.

3. Rehabilitation and Return to Work: You are entitled to assistance with rehabilitation and return-to-work programs to help you get back to work as soon as it is safe to do so.

Steps to File a Workers' Compensation Claim

1. Obtain a First Medical Certificate: Visit a doctor to obtain a first medical certificate (also known as a WorkCover certificate of capacity) that outlines your injury and your capacity to work.

2. Complete a Workers' Compensation Claim Form: Obtain and complete a workers' compensation claim form. You can get this form from your employer, the insurance company, or the WorkCover WA website.

3. Submit the Claim: Submit the completed claim form and the first medical certificate to your employer as soon as possible. Your employer is then required to forward these documents to their workers' compensation insurer.

4. Keep Records: Keep copies of all documents and correspondence related to your injury and claim.

Additional Compensation

1. Permanent Impairment: If your injury results in permanent impairment, you may be entitled to a lump sum compensation.

2. Common Law Claim: If your injury was caused by your employer’s negligence, you might be able to pursue a common law claim for additional compensation beyond the statutory workers' compensation benefits. This can include pain and suffering, and future loss of earnings.

Practical Tips

- Seek Legal Advice: Consider consulting a workers' compensation lawyer who can provide personalized advice and assist you with your claim. They can help ensure you receive all the entitlements you are due and advise on any additional compensation you may be eligible for.

- Contact WorkCover WA: WorkCover WA is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the workers' compensation system in Western Australia. They can provide information, assistance, and dispute resolution services. You can contact them for guidance on your rights and the claims process.

- Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with your rights under the Workers' Compensation and Injury Management Act 1981 (WA).

By following these steps, you can ensure that you receive the appropriate compensation and support for your injury. If you encounter any difficulties or disputes, seeking legal advice can provide you with additional support and advocacy.

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3 May 2024
New South Wales
MEEK
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The plaintiffs are seeking to recover $210,000 from the defendants after investing money with Mr. Marino through a trading platform. The Court expects the parties to engage with each other and frame issues thoughtfully. The plaintiffs claim that any loss suffered was due to gross negligence, fraud, or wilful default on Mr. Marino's part. The text discusses the principles related to third party claims against lawyers for economic loss and the distinction between an employee and an independent contractor. Various factors are considered in determining the nature of the relationship between parties, such as the terms of the contract, control, tax deductions, and payment structure.
Judgment
The text summarizes the outcome of a legal case where the plaintiffs were successful in their contractual claim against the first defendant but were unsuccessful in their claims against the second defendant. The parties are required to submit a brief summary of the court's decision.
Legislation
1.Bankruptcy Act 1966 (Cth)
2.Civil Liability Act 2002 (NSW)
3.Civil Procedure Act 2005 (NSW)
4.Competition and Consumer Act 2010
5.(Cth)
6.Corporations Act 2001 (Cth)
7.Evidence Act 1977 (Qld)
8.Evidence Act 1995 (NSW)
9.Jurisdiction of Courts (Cross-vesting) Act 1987
10.(Cth)
11.Jurisdiction of Courts (Cross-vesting) Act 1987 (NSW)
12.Legal Profession Act 2007 (Qld)
13.Legal Profession Uniform Law 2014 (NSW)
14.Partnership Act 1891 (Qld)
15.Partnership Act 1892
16.(NSW)
17.Australian Solicitors Conduct Rules
18.Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 2005 (NSW)
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