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Workers Compensation in Victoria (VIC) 2026 — Your Rights & Entitlements

Last updated: March 2026

Workers compensation in Victoria is governed by the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2013 (Vic) and administered by the WorkSafe Victoria.

Victoria's system is managed by WorkSafe Victoria, which acts as both the regulator and the insurer. Claims are managed through WorkSafe's agents.

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

Weekly benefits: Up to 95% of pre-injury average weekly earnings for the first 13 weeks, then 80% for weeks 14-130.

Key Facts: Workers Compensation in VIC

  • ✓Managed by: WorkSafe Victoria
  • ✓Legislation: Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2013 (Vic)
  • ✓Weekly benefit: Up to 95% of pre-injury average weekly earnings for the first 13 weeks, then 80% for weeks 14-130
  • ✓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.vic.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 Victoria?▼
Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, then lodge a claim with your employer's insurer or through the WorkSafe Victoria. You'll need a certificate of capacity from a doctor. Visit worksafe.vic.gov.au for claim forms and detailed guidance.
How much will I be paid on workers compensation in VIC?▼
Up to 95% of pre-injury average weekly earnings for the first 13 weeks, then 80% for weeks 14-130. 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 Victoria?▼
There are protections against dismissal while on workers' compensation. Under the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2013 (Vic), 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 VIC?▼
Workers compensation in Victoria is managed by the WorkSafe Victoria under the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2013 (Vic). For more information, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au.

Workers Compensation in Other States

NSWNew South WalesQLDQueenslandWAWestern AustraliaSASouth AustraliaTASTasmaniaACTAustralian Capital TerritoryNTNorthern Territory

More Workplace Rights in VIC

Redundancy PayRedundancy Pay rights in VictoriaNotice PeriodNotice Period rights in VictoriaLong Service LeaveLong Service Leave rights in VictoriaUnfair DismissalUnfair Dismissal rights in VictoriaPublic HolidaysPublic Holidays rights in Victoria

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.