As of 1 July 2014, new legislation will regulate the entitlements of Victorians injured at work to compensation and assistance.
The Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2013 (the WIRC Act) outlines the scope of benefits that can be claimed for injuries suffered at work on or after 1 July 2014. Injuries occurring prior to 1 July 2014 will continue to be regulated by the Accident Compensation Act 1985. Where an injury has been sustained because of the nature of a worker's duties or over the course of their employment, they will be subject to the WIRC Act where they have submitted a claim after 1 July 2014.
The benefits available to injured workers does not change between the WIRC Act and the former regime. The major difference between the two laws is the renumbering of sections governing entitlements under the system.
Suffering an injury at work can have serious consequences for both you and your family. If you or someone you know has suffered an injury at work, we invite you to contact one of our WorkCover injury experts on (03) 9321 9988.