What are the general duties of an employee when it comes to workers compensation?

• Employees have an obligation to:
  • report injuries promptly;
  • participate in rehabilitation programs and complete medical assessments required as part of their ‘return to work’ plan;
  • notify their employer if their condition improves or worsens or if there have been any changes to their weekly payments; and
  • act honestly throughout the claims process.
• Penalties for lying on a claims form or for producing fraudulent documentation can be very serious.
• Most states and territories require employees to lodge claims for compensation within 6 months of the incident occurring. There are exemptions which can be applied in cases of occupational disease such as mesothelioma which can sometimes emerge decades after exposure to asbestos.