Workers Compensation in Queensland (QLD) 2026 — Your Rights & Entitlements

Last updated: March 2026

Workers compensation in Queensland is governed by the Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (Qld) and administered by the WorkCover Queensland.

Queensland's workers' compensation is managed by WorkCover Queensland, a statutory body that provides insurance to most Queensland employers. Self-insurance is available to large employers.

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 QLD, your claim will be managed under the QLD scheme regardless of your employer's national operations.

Weekly benefits: Normal weekly earnings (NWE) for the first 26 weeks, then 85% of NWE or the Queensland average weekly wage (whichever is lower).

Key Facts: Workers Compensation in QLD

✓Managed by: WorkCover Queensland
✓Legislation: Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (Qld)
✓Weekly benefit: Normal weekly earnings (NWE) for the first 26 weeks, then 85% of NWE or the Queensland average weekly wage (whichever is lower)
✓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.qld.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 Queensland?▼

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

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

Normal weekly earnings (NWE) for the first 26 weeks, then 85% of NWE or the Queensland average weekly wage (whichever is lower). 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 Queensland?▼

There are protections against dismissal while on workers' compensation. Under the Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (Qld), 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 QLD?▼

Workers compensation in Queensland is managed by the WorkCover Queensland under the Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (Qld). For more information, visit worksafe.qld.gov.au.

Workers Compensation in Other States

NSWNew South Wales VICVictoria WAWestern Australia SASouth Australia TASTasmania ACTAustralian Capital Territory NTNorthern Territory

More Workplace Rights in QLD

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

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.