Workers Compensation in Australian Capital Territory (ACT) 2026 — Your Rights & Entitlements

Last updated: March 2026

Workers compensation in Australian Capital Territory is governed by the Workers Compensation Act 1951 (ACT) and administered by the WorkSafe ACT.

The ACT uses a private insurer model regulated by WorkSafe ACT (part of Access Canberra). Employers must hold a complying workers' compensation policy.

Unlike most employment entitlements, workers' compensation is entirely state-based — each state and territory runs its own scheme with different rules, benefits, and processes. If you're injured at work in ACT, your claim will be managed under the ACT scheme regardless of your employer's national operations.

Weekly benefits: 100% of normal weekly earnings for the first 26 weeks, then 75% of normal weekly earnings.

Key Facts: Workers Compensation in ACT

✓Managed by: WorkSafe ACT
✓Legislation: Workers Compensation Act 1951 (ACT)
✓Weekly benefit: 100% of normal weekly earnings for the first 26 weeks, then 75% of normal weekly earnings
✓All employers must have workers' compensation insurance (or be self-insured)
✓Claims must be lodged as soon as practicable after injury
✓Covers physical injuries, psychological injuries, and diseases arising from employment
✓More information: worksafe.act.gov.au
✓Workers are protected from dismissal due to a workers' compensation claim

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a workers compensation claim in Australian Capital Territory?▼

Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, then lodge a claim with your employer's insurer or through the WorkSafe ACT. You'll need a certificate of capacity from a doctor. Visit worksafe.act.gov.au for claim forms and detailed guidance.

How much will I be paid on workers compensation in ACT?▼

100% of normal weekly earnings for the first 26 weeks, then 75% of normal weekly earnings. The exact amount depends on your pre-injury earnings and the duration of your incapacity. Medical expenses are covered separately.

Can my employer fire me while I'm on workers comp in Australian Capital Territory?▼

There are protections against dismissal while on workers' compensation. Under the Workers Compensation Act 1951 (ACT), employers cannot dismiss workers solely because of their workplace injury, particularly during the initial period of incapacity. However, protections have time limits that vary by state.

Who manages workers compensation in ACT?▼

Workers compensation in Australian Capital Territory is managed by the WorkSafe ACT under the Workers Compensation Act 1951 (ACT). For more information, visit worksafe.act.gov.au.

Workers Compensation in Other States

NSWNew South Wales VICVictoria QLDQueensland WAWestern Australia SASouth Australia TASTasmania NTNorthern Territory

More Workplace Rights in ACT

Redundancy PayRedundancy Pay rights in Australian Capital Territory Notice PeriodNotice Period rights in Australian Capital Territory Long Service LeaveLong Service Leave rights in Australian Capital Territory Unfair DismissalUnfair Dismissal rights in Australian Capital Territory Public HolidaysPublic Holidays rights in Australian Capital Territory

General information and estimates only — not legal, financial, or tax advice. Always verify with the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified professional.