Published: 15 July 2016
Author: Stringer Clark WorkCover Law team

What you need to know about WorkCover and work injury

Calculating your WorkCover income payments

If your WorkCover claim is accepted, you will be offered a weekly income payment in replacement of your usual wage. We receive a lot of calls from workers who are worried they are not getting the correct amount owing to them.

If you are in this position, here is a quick checklist on how to calculate your WorkCover income payments. 

How does the formula work?

Weekly payments are determined by your pre-injury average weekly earnings prior to the injury. The amount is calculated as a percentage (%) of your average weekly gross pay including your regular overtime and shift allowance – for the first 12 months.

The maximum rate for weekly payment is twice the State average weekly earnings currently stands as $2000.

If you are covered by a union, you may also be awarded accident make-up pay depending on your union’s EBA, if which case you ought to check with your union. This of course is a case-by-case decision.

We are also commonly asked another couple of questions about WorkCover payments.

What about Superannuation?

Your employer may be required to also pay superannuation if you are being paid for 52 weeks or more, regardless of whether they are consecutive.

Can I be thrown off WorkCover payments? 

Your payments can be suspended or terminated if you do not make every reasonable effort to participate in rehabilitation, retraining and return to work plans

Return to work plans should be made in consultation with your treating doctor and a rehabilitation services provider.