There are many questions that come up when someone is injured in a workplace. Such as, how am I going to get paid whilst not at work? Who will pay my medical expenses? Am I going to lose my job? These are very common questions and in Australia, there are good answers for those question with the help of compensation lawyers.
What is Workers Compensation?
Basically, workers compensation is the financial support that is received by an employee in case of any work-related injury or illness. You are eligible to claim wages, medical expenses, domestic assistance if you had a work-related accident. Additionally, depending on the severity of the accident or illness, you may be eligible to receive lumps sum payment and work injury damages. This is also known as workers comp.
Importance of Workers Compensation Insurance
Accidents, injuries, and illnesses at the workplace are quite common in any working environment. If one of your employees are hurt and won’t be unable to work for a certain period of time, it is business owner’s responsibility to make sure that incapacitated worker can get back to work as soon as possible.
You can choose a various business-related insurance policy according to your company needs however workers compensation is required by law. If you do not have workers compensation then you will be liable. Additionally, you will receive a financial penalty by Work Cover for not having workers compensation insurance. Workers compensation covers the injured worker with cover for medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation services, lump sum compensation and death benefits. Workers compensation insurance is a basic policy that a company needs. It not only supports your employees’ needs, but also benefits your business in the long term.
Number of fatalities in Australia in 2018
The workers fatality rate of Australia is relatively low but it is still significant. In 2018, according to Safe Work Australia, 51 machinery operators and drivers, 36 labourers, 27 technicians, 16 managers died. The highest fatality rate is machinery operators and drivers by 6.2 people per 100,000 workers. The average fatality rate is 1.1 per 100,000. The highest number of fatalities occurred in agriculture, forestry and fishing industry while retail trade, professional and scientific services have the lowest. New South Wales is the most populous state of Australia and it is ranked the first at the number of worker fatalities in 2018 and the last 5 years.
Further Information regarding Workers Compensation in Australia
It is really beneficial to know your rights and act as soon as possible after you or your injured worker has been injured. After a work-related injury, you may want to work with an experienced workers compensation lawyer to receive the maximum of what you or your injured worker are entitled to.
About The Author
Michelle Joe
Michelle Joe is a blogger by choice. She loves to discover the world around her. She likes to share her discoveries, experiences, and express herself through her blogs. You can find her on twitter
