Written by Carter Capner Law

Updated on April 4, 2025

This article provides general educational information only and does not constitute legal advice. It is intended for workers in Queensland, Australia. Please consult a qualified solicitor or WorkCover Queensland for guidance on your personal circumstances.

Whether it’s a fall, strain, cut, or psychological trauma — what you do in the first 72 hours after a workplace injury can make or break your recovery and compensation claim. This step-by-step guide explains exactly what you need to do, who to notify, and how to protect your legal rights in Queensland.

1. The Golden Rule: Don’t Ignore It

Even if your injury feels minor, don’t wait to report it. A small sprain can become a chronic condition, and delayed reporting can be used to deny your claim.

Injury Type Why You Should Act Immediately
Back strain Symptoms can worsen gradually and impact future work ability
Slip or trip Shock may mask the severity in the moment
Mental distress (bullying, trauma) Requires early documentation to be accepted by WorkCover

⚠️ Delayed Reporting Risks:
Insurers may argue your injury happened outside of work — or that it isn’t serious. Always report ASAP, even if symptoms seem small.

2. First 24 Hours: What to Do Immediately

Your first moves after the injury will set the tone for your claim. Follow this timeline:

Timeframe Key Action
Immediately Stop work. Notify your manager/supervisor.
Within 1 hour Record the incident in the injury register (or request it be logged).
Within 6 hours Seek first aid or attend a GP/hospital. Tell them it was a work-related injury.
Within 24 hours Request a Work Capacity Certificate from your doctor. This is crucial for your WorkCover claim.

Tip: Always say the phrase “I was injured at work” during your medical visit. It triggers specific documentation.

3. First 48 Hours: Get Your Claim Started

Now that your injury is documented, the clock starts ticking on your WorkCover claim. Here’s how to lodge it:

Step Details
1. Get your certificate Your GP must provide a Work Capacity Certificate. It outlines your diagnosis, time off, and restrictions.
2. Lodge the claim Submit your certificate and claim form to WorkCover QLD (online or via your employer if self-insured).
3. Employer notifies insurer Your employer must report the incident to their insurer within 8 business days — but you can’t rely on them to do it.

⏱ Timing matters:
Claims should be lodged within 20 business days of the injury. The sooner you lodge, the sooner you’re covered for medical costs and time off.

4. First 72 Hours: Know What to Expect

Once your claim is submitted, WorkCover (or your employer’s insurer) will begin assessing whether to accept or deny it.

You may receive:

  • Follow-up phone calls about the incident
  • Requests for further medical reports
  • A notice of claim acceptance or rejection (usually within 20 business days)

During this time, you can still:

  • Attend medical appointments (keep all receipts)
  • Rest or follow your doctor’s recommended duties
  • Contact your union or lawyer for advice

Tip: Keep a diary or notes of everything — who you spoke to, what was said, and what documents were submitted.

5. Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Claim

Mistake Why It’s a Problem
Delaying medical treatment Weakens the link between injury and work
Not reporting the injury at all Makes the claim easier to dispute
Assuming your employer will handle it You may miss deadlines or critical paperwork
Returning to work too early Can aggravate the injury and affect future compensation

6. What If My Claim Is Denied?

WorkCover QLD may reject your claim for several reasons — often due to missing documents or employer disputes. But that’s not the end of the road.

❌ Claim rejected?
You have 3 months to request a review through the Workers’ Compensation Regulator. A lawyer or union can help prepare your appeal.

Other options include:

  • Internal WorkCover review
  • QIRC appeal (Queensland Industrial Relations Commission)
  • Common law claim (if employer negligence was involved)

7. Does This Apply to Psychological Injuries Too?

Yes — but the rules are stricter. If bullying, trauma, or chronic stress made you mentally unwell, you’ll still need a proper diagnosis and evidence that the cause was work-related.

Mental Health Condition Eligible for Compensation?
PTSD from workplace trauma ✅ Yes
Depression from bullying ✅ Yes
Burnout from long hours ✅ Possibly (needs strong medical support)
Disciplinary stress ❌ No, if it’s “reasonable management action”

Need more? See our article: Workplace Bullying Made Me Sick: How to Claim for Psychological Injury

8. Final Checklist: Your First 72 Hours

  • ✅ Report your injury to your supervisor in writing
  • ✅ Seek medical treatment and get a Work Capacity Certificate
  • ✅ Record the incident in the workplace injury register
  • ✅ Lodge your claim with WorkCover or your employer’s insurer
  • ✅ Keep copies of everything — receipts, certificates, notes
  • ✅ Don’t wait — get legal or union help if unsure