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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
- 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.