No-Fault WorkCover Compensation for Permanent Injuries
If you’ve suffered a permanent injury at work in Victoria, you may be entitled to a lump sum payment through the WorkCover impairment benefit scheme. This is a no-fault claim, meaning you don’t need to prove your employer was negligent. It’s recognition that your injury has changed your life and ensures you receive fair compensation.
More Information
No-Fault Cover
You don’t have to prove employer negligence to claim
Tax-Free
Lump sum compensation is separate from weekly payments & medical expenses.
Strict Deadlines
You only have 60 days to respond once an insurer issues a decision
How We Help
Expert claim preparation, disputes, and representation - no win, no fee.
What is an impairment benefit?
An impairment benefit is a one-off, tax-free lump sum payment for workers who have suffered a permanent physical or psychological injury. The amount is based on your level of Whole Person Impairment (WPI), which is assessed by an independent medical specialist.
This benefit is separate from your weekly WorkCover payments and medical expenses. Importantly, it does not affect your rights to receive ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, Centrelink support, or income protection insurance.
In short, it is recognition of the long-term impact of your injury, while still allowing you to access other forms of financial and medical support.
The claim process
While the process may look straightforward, it often comes down to how well your claim is prepared and how you respond to insurer decisions. Here’s what to expect:
Lodging a Claim – Once your injury is stable, you can make a claim. Fault doesn’t need to be proven.
Medical Assessment – You’ll see an independent doctor who determines your WPI rating.
Decision Notice – Within 120 days, the insurer must confirm if your claim is accepted and outline your rating and payment.
Response – You have 60 days to accept or challenge the decision.
If You Disagree
For disputes about your rating, your case can go to the Medical Panel, whose ruling is usually final.
For other disputes, you can go through conciliation, and if unresolved, progress to court with a genuine dispute certificate.
Mistakes like a low impairment rating or missing deadlines can cost you thousands, which is why experienced legal guidance is critical.
FAQ
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You can lodge a claim once your injury is stable. There isn’t a strict expiry date, but the longer you wait, the harder it can become to prove. Early advice is best.
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No. These claims are no-fault. You only need to show your injury is permanent.
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You can dispute it through conciliation or, for medical disagreements, through the Medical Panel. In some cases, you can also take the matter to court.
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No. It is tax-free and does not reduce your rights to weekly WorkCover payments, medical expenses, Centrelink benefits, or income protection insurance.
How we can help…
At Bastion Legal, we take the stress out of the process so you can focus on recovery. We prepare your claim thoroughly, guide you through medical assessments, and ensure all evidence is presented in the strongest possible way. If your claim is rejected or undervalued, we fight on your behalf at conciliation, before the Medical Panel, or in court.
You’ll always deal directly with an experienced lawyer who understands your situation and treats your claim as unique. With our guidance, you’ll have the confidence of knowing your case is being managed with care, professionalism, and a determination to secure the outcome you deserve.
“Extremely professional and compassionate. Highly recommend…”
- Tom
Contact us
At Bastion Legal, we offer clear advice and experienced representation for WorkCover impairment benefit lump sum claims.
We only charge fixed fees and only act if we believe in your case from when we initially consult with you. Most importantly, legal costs are only deducted from your compensation if you win the case.
Contact us today for a free initial consultation and find out if you may be entitled to an impairment benefit under the WorkCover scheme.
