How much will it cost to use the services of WorkCover Assist?
WorkCover Assist is a free service funded by WorkSafe Victoria.
Can any worker use WorkCover Assist?
WorkCover Assist is available to help all workers' who have a WorkCover dispute that is referred to the Workplace Injury Commission (WIC) for conciliation.
I live in a regional area, will WorkCover Assist help me?
Yes. WorkCover Assist Workers' Consultants will travel to all regional centres to assist you with your conciliation conference.
Are there any matters that WorkCover Assist cannot help me with?
WorkCover Assist consultants are unable to help with lump sum or common law matters. Please discuss these matters with your solicitor.
My WorkSafe agent or self-insurer has not made a decision about an entitlement. May I take this issue to conciliation?
Yes. However, a reasonable period should have passed to allow for the WorkCover agent or self insurer to address your request. You should contact your WorkCover agent or self-insurer and request a response before referring the matter to the WIC.
What should I write on the Request for Conciliation form, where it asks, “Why do you want conciliation?”
You should state either:
- I disagree with the decision as attached.
Or, if no decision has been made, you should state:
- The insurer has failed to make a decision about and to approve…..(describe the request you made).
Can my lawyer attend my conciliation conference with me?
No. Workers are not allowed legal representation at a conciliation conference (unless all the other people involved agree). We will liaise with your lawyer throughout the process.
Are WorkCover Assist Workers' Consultants lawyers?
No. While they are not lawyers, the Workers' Consultants are very familiar with the Accident Compensation Act 1985, relevant WorkSafe policies and WIC processes.
Does WorkCover Assist set the conciliation dates and times?
No. The conciliation conference venue, date and time are arranged by the WIC. If you request the help of WorkCover Assist, the WIC will also take into account the availability of WorkCover Assist to ensure your Workers' Consultant is able to attend your conference with you.
What should I do if I cannot attend the conciliation conference?
If you are unable to attend the scheduled conciliation conference, you should contact the WIC immediately on 9940 1111. If you believe your medical condition prevents you from attending the conciliation conference, you should raise this with the WIC immediately and ask about what other arrangements may be put in place.
Can I claim my costs of attending the WIC for a conciliation conference?
Yes. An expense claim form will be provided to you at conciliation by the WIC.
Will my employer be at the conciliation conference?
Yes. One representative from your employer is entitled to attend and participate in the conciliation conference. Your employer may also invite a relative, friend or other person to assist them at the conference.
Does my Workers' Consultant attend the Medical Panels with me?
No. While WorkCover Assist is able to attend the WIC as your assistant, we are unable to accompany you to your examination with the Medical Panels.