Claiming Workers' Compensation for Coronavirus (COVID-19)

We are currently receiving calls from workers enquiring whether they can claim workers’ compensation if they are exposed to and as a result contract the coronavirus whilst at work.

The short answer is yes. Under the state workers’ compensation scheme the coronavirus will be classified as a disease.

How Can I Claim Workers' Compensation for Coronavirus?

With the spread of the coronavirus the difficulty workers will face should they file a claim is proving that they contracted the coronavirus at work. Workers must also prove that the employment was a significant factor in the contraction of the virus.

Some workers may not be able to demonstrate the connection between the contraction of the coronavirus and the employment.

What Types of Workers' Can Make a Claim?

Specific workers, such as healthcare workers, shop assistants, carers and teachers may be able to more easily prove the connection between the contraction of the coronavirus and the employment.

Whether a workers’ compensation claim is compensable or not will have to be determined on a case by case basis.

Speak to a Workers' Compensation Expert Today

If you have contracted the coronavirus and believe that you contracted the virus at work, you should seek legal advice from one of our workers compensation lawyers.

Perth City Legal are are Perth Compensation Law experts. Our experienced team have been helping West Australians pursue compensation claims for over 20 years. Get in touch with us today for a confidential, free initial consultation.

FAQs

Can I claim workers’ compensation if I catch the coronavirus at work?

Yes. Under the state workers’ compensation scheme the coronavirus will be classified as a disease.

How can I claim Workers’ Compensation for contracting the coronavirus?

You will need to be able to prove you contracted the coronavirus whilst working. Specific workers, such as healthcare workers, shop assistants, carers and teachers may be able to more easily prove the connection between the contraction of the coronavirus and the employment.

Whether a workers’ compensation claim is compensable or not will have to be determined on a case by case basis. If you have contracted the coronavirus and believe that you contracted the virus at work you should seek legal advice.

Who can claim Workers’ Compensation for the coronavirus?

Any employees in Western Australia who are exposed to and as a result contract the coronavirus whilst at work, are eligible to make a claim. If you have contracted the coronavirus and believe that you contracted the virus at work you should seek legal advice.