Starting a Workers Compensation Claim in NSW: Your Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve been injured at work in New South Wales, the process of making a workers compensation claim can feel overwhelming. You're likely dealing with pain, confusion, and uncertainty about what to do next. At Lexmens, we’re here to make sure you’re informed, protected, and supported from day one. Here’s a clear breakdown of the steps you need to take after a work-related injury — and how we can help.

Step 1: Report the Injury Within 30 Days

The first step is to notify your employer as soon as possible. In NSW, this must be done within 30 days of the incident. We recommend sending a written report by email or letter, so you have a dated record. Be specific about what happened, where, and how you were injured.

If your injuries are serious, you should also consider reporting the incident to SafeWork NSW, who may launch an investigation.

Get medical attention quickly. If it’s an emergency, call 000 or go straight to hospital. Otherwise, book in with your GP as soon as possible, and make sure you explain how the injury occurred at work. Your doctor’s notes will become key medical evidence in your claim.

Step 2: Get the Right Forms Completed workers comp claim NSW

Your GP needs to fill out a Certificate of Capacity (download here). This document outlines your diagnosis, treatment plan, and capacity to work.

You’ll also need to complete a Workers Injury Claim Form (download here).

Tip: Make sure the details in your Certificate and Claim Form are consistent with each other, and with the initial report you gave to your employer. Any inconsistencies could delay or complicate your claim. workers comp claim NSW

Step 3: Lodge the Claim Within 6 Months

Once your forms are ready, give a copy to both your employer and their workers compensation insurer. NSW law says you must do this within six months of the injury. However, the sooner you lodge, the sooner you can receive support.

What Happens Next?

After your claim is submitted, the insurer is required to begin processing it quickly. They should respond within seven days, and in many cases, you may start receiving provisional payments while your claim is being assessed.

Even if your injury seems minor at first, it’s essential to report it and follow these steps. Some conditions get worse over time and if you haven’t documented the incident early on, you could risk losing access to compensation later.

Don’t Risk It Alone. Let Lexmens Fight for You

Let’s be honest, lodging a workers compensation claim can be a confusing, exhausting process. Between managing doctor visits, paperwork, insurer demands and your own recovery, it can feel like a full-time job when you’re least equipped to handle it — physically and mentally.

And the truth is, the details matter. A small mistake, a missed deadline, or an inconsistent medical certificate can cost you thousands in lost entitlements. This is not the kind of process you want to go through alone.

That’s where we come in.

At Lexmens, our lawyers have handled thousands of workers compensation claims across NSW. We know the system inside out, the forms, the deadlines, the medical evidence, the way insurers operate. We understand every nuance, and we use that knowledge to protect your rights and maximise your compensation.

You don’t pay us out of pocket, our fees are covered by WIRO. That means you’ve got nothing to lose, and everything to gain by getting professional legal support on your side.

Let us take the pressure off your shoulders. Focus on your recovery, we’ll handle the rest.

Contact a Lexmens Lawyer