Workers Compensation in Grafton

A return-to-work (RTW) plan outlines how an injured worker can gradually re-enter the workforce, often with modified duties or reduced hours. It’s usually developed in collaboration with your treating doctor, your employer, and the insurer, and may involve a workplace rehabilitation provider. The plan sets goals, timelines, and conditions under which you may resume work safely. If your injury limits your ability to return to the same role, the plan may include options for retraining or alternate duties. RTW plans are monitored and can be adjusted as your condition improves or changes.

Yes, if you were injured while working under a labour hire or agency arrangement, you may still be eligible to claim workers compensation. In these cases, the labour hire company is usually considered your employer for legal purposes, even if you were placed at another business. It’s important to notify both the host employer and the labour hire agency and to keep clear records of your role, duties, and hours worked. Medical evidence and incident details will help determine eligibility and guide the claims process.

If your injury prevents you from performing duties across more than one job, this can be taken into account when calculating workers compensation benefits. You’ll need to provide pay slips or income history for all roles held at the time of injury. The insurer will assess how the injury affects your overall earning capacity, not just in one position. Accurate documentation and medical certification are critical in these cases. You may also need to work with your treating doctor to outline the specific limitations affecting each job.

Permanent impairments are assessed through a structured process, often involving a specialist medical assessment using guidelines such as the NSW Workers Compensation Guidelines for the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment. The assessment measures the degree of permanent physical or psychological injury and expresses it as a percentage. This rating can affect entitlements to lump sum compensation or long-term benefits. Independent Medical Examiners (IMEs) typically perform the assessment, and in some cases, disputes may arise over the rating. In those instances, further review or referral to a dispute resolution body may be required.