With much concern over the Coronavirus (COVID-19) at present, a lot of questions have been asked as to whether workers would be entitled to compensation under worker compensation if the illness is contracted at work. Here we clear up any confusion regarding COVID-19 and Workcover.
Generally speaking, in the majority of States and Territories, a worker may be eligible for compensation where it can be demonstrated that the workers COVID-19 exposure occurred within the work environment; and that the worker’s employment was a significant contributing factor to the contraction of COVID-19. Given that exposure can occur in public settings questions may arise as to the exact time and place of contracting the virus. As a result, it may be difficult to determine that employment was a significant contributing factor.
Each claim would need to be considered on its individual merits, having regard to the individual circumstances and evidence of each claim. Further details can be found at the following sites:
- Safe Work Australia – For information in relation to managing the risks of contracting COVID-19 in the workplace – https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/coronavirus-COVID-19-advice-pcbus
- Comcare (Commonwealth) – https://www.comcare.gov.au/news__and__media/news_latest/coronavirus_whs_and_workers_compensation
- NSW – https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/news/safeworkpublic-notice/coronavirus
- WA – https://www.workcover.wa.gov.au/news/workers-•compensation-coronavirus-COVID-19/
- VIC – https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/safety-alerts/exposure-coronavirus-workplaces
- QLD – https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/news/2020/anupdate-from-workcover-queensland-on-COVID-19
- SA – https://www.safework.sa.gov.au/news/coronavirusCOVID-19-workplace-information
- ACT – https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/app/home
- NT – https://worksafe.nt.gov.au/forms-and-resources/guides/getting-your-workplace-ready-for-COVID-19-coronavirus
The Team at DGL Accountants are here to assist you with your Workcover enquiries, reach out to us today!