Workers Compensation in Western Australia (WA) 2026 — Your Rights & Entitlements

Last updated: March 2026

Workers compensation in Western Australia is governed by the Workers' Compensation and Injury Management Act 1981 (WA) and administered by the WorkCover WA.

WA has a private underwriter model where employers take out policies with approved insurers. WorkCover WA is the regulatory body that oversees the scheme.

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

Weekly benefits: 100% of pre-injury earnings for the first 13 weeks, then stepped down rates apply.

Key Facts: Workers Compensation in WA

✓Managed by: WorkCover WA
✓Legislation: Workers' Compensation and Injury Management Act 1981 (WA)
✓Weekly benefit: 100% of pre-injury earnings for the first 13 weeks, then stepped down rates apply
✓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: workcover.wa.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 Western Australia?▼

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

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

100% of pre-injury earnings for the first 13 weeks, then stepped down rates apply. 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 Western Australia?▼

There are protections against dismissal while on workers' compensation. Under the Workers' Compensation and Injury Management Act 1981 (WA), 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 WA?▼

Workers compensation in Western Australia is managed by the WorkCover WA under the Workers' Compensation and Injury Management Act 1981 (WA). For more information, visit workcover.wa.gov.au.

Workers Compensation in Other States

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

More Workplace Rights in WA

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

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.