WorkCover Benefits in Victoria: The Big Picture

If you’re injured at work in Victoria, a WorkCover claim (once accepted) can cover much more than “a bit of physio.”
WorkSafe describes WorkCover compensation as including things like weekly payments, medical and treatment expenses, and other supports designed to help you recover and return to work where possible. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

In plain language, WorkCover benefits in Victoria generally fall into six buckets:

1. Weekly payments (income replacement if you can’t work your normal hours/duties)
2. Treatment expenses (medical, allied health, hospital, medications and other “medical and like” costs)
3. Travel expenses (getting to treatment appointments in many situations)
4. Rehab and return-to-work services (occupational rehab providers, job support, retraining in some cases)
5. Lump sums (permanent impairment benefits if you meet thresholds)
6. Death benefits (payments to dependants if a worker dies from a work-related injury/illness)

Your actual entitlements depend on your capacity, the evidence, and where you are in the claim lifecycle. The rest of this guide breaks it down in a straightforward, Melbourne-friendly way.

Weekly Payments (Income Replacement)

Weekly payments are designed to replace some of your wages if you can’t work (or can’t earn your usual amount) because of your work-related injury or illness.
WorkSafe explains that it can pay weekly payments for accepted claims until you can return to pre-injury work or other suitable work with similar earnings, and that you generally need a valid certificate of capacity covering your time off work. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

In many cases, your employer pays weekly payments initially in the same way wages are paid, as part of the WorkCover process. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

What weekly payments can help with (real-world examples)

• You’re totally unfit for work for a period (for example, after surgery or a serious back injury)
• You’re fit for modified duties only (reduced hours, no lifting, no driving, no repetitive tasks)
• You can work but only earn less than your pre-injury income
• You have intermittent capacity while undergoing treatment, flare-ups, or staged return-to-work

Why certificates of capacity matter

Weekly payments are closely tied to your certified capacity and your actual earnings.
If you’re not supplying certificates on time, or the certificates are vague (for example, “stress” with no functional detail), weekly payments can be delayed, questioned, or cut off.

Entitlement Periods, 13 Weeks, and the 130-Week Review

Victoria uses “entitlement periods” to describe different stages of weekly payments. WorkSafe notes weekly payments are highest in the first 13 weeks (the first entitlement period). :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

The first entitlement period (first 13 weeks)

This is typically when weekly payments are at their most supportive level and the system is focused on early recovery and safe return-to-work planning.

The second entitlement period (weeks 14 to 130)

WorkSafe explains the “second entitlement period” is the period after the first 13 weeks up to week 130, and this is why people talk about a “130-week review.” :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

What happens after 130 weeks?

This is one of the most important “benefits” questions, because weekly payments can change dramatically.
WorkSafe’s May 2025 information for workers says that after the end of the second entitlement period (130 weeks), weekly payments can no longer be paid unless certain criteria are met. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

According to that WorkSafe document, to keep receiving weekly payments after 130 weeks, you must meet both criteria:

• You have no current work capacity and it is likely to continue indefinitely, and
• You have a whole person impairment (WPI) of 21% or more (based on all accepted injuries/illnesses from the same event or circumstance). :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

The same WorkSafe document also notes that if weekly payments stop after the second entitlement period, you may still be entitled to ongoing supports, including medical and like expenses for a further period (it refers to a further 52 weeks of medical and like). :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Practical Melbourne tip

If you’re approaching 78–100 weeks of weekly payments, it’s smart to get proactive: keep your medical evidence tidy, attend appointments, and consider advice early if you feel a dispute is brewing. The 130-week review process can take months and may involve impairment and capacity assessments. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Treatment Expenses (Medical and Like Costs)

Treatment expenses are often the most immediately helpful benefit—especially if you’re facing specialist appointments, scans, rehab, or ongoing allied health.
WorkSafe states that if you have a work-related injury or illness, you may be compensated for the cost of treatment, and that you can choose your healthcare provider as long as they meet Victorian workers’ compensation requirements. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

How payment typically works

WorkSafe prefers providers invoice the agent directly. If you pay upfront, WorkSafe says you can send the receipt to your agent and you will be paid within 30 days from when the agent receives it (and receipts need to be sent within 6 months of the treatment). :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

What can count as “treatment”?

Depending on your injury and what is approved/required, this can include:

• GP visits and specialist appointments
• Hospital treatment and surgery (where approved/required)
• Imaging (for example MRI, where relevant)
• Allied health (physio, osteo, chiro, podiatry etc.)
• Counselling/psychology services (where relevant and approved)
• Aids and appliances, equipment, home/community supports in some circumstances

WorkSafe’s treatment expenses page also lists services that can be accessed without a referral/initial approval versus services that require referral and agent approval, and notes limits like paying for only one type of physical treatment at a time (e.g., physio/osteo/chiro). :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Provisional payments for mental injuries (early support)

If your claim involves a work-related mental injury, WorkSafe explains that you may be able to access early treatment and support for up to 13 weeks while you wait for the outcome of your claim (called provisional payments), and that you can access provisional payments even if the claim is ultimately rejected. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

Travel and Transport Costs to Treatment

Travel costs can sneak up fast in Melbourne—parking, tolls, fuel, public transport, and time.
The good news is that WorkSafe can reimburse reasonable travel expenses for attending treatment in many circumstances. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

What’s commonly covered

WorkSafe’s travel expenses policy says workers can be reimbursed reasonable travel costs by private motor vehicle where public transport is not practicable, including per kilometre travelled, parking fees and tolls. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

WorkSafe also publishes a travel expenses fee schedule for public transport reimbursements (with verification of appointments). :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

What travel is usually for

The WorkSafe Claims Manual notes travel expenses can be reimbursed for attending medical or allied health treatment and hospital treatment required due to a work-related injury/illness (with some limits, such as travel to/from a pharmacy being excluded). :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Melbourne practical tip

Keep your appointment confirmations and a basic log: date, provider, address, and kilometres (or public transport costs). If you need taxis or special transport due to mobility restrictions, this usually becomes an approval/evidence conversation—so document why public transport wasn’t practicable.

Rehabilitation and Return-to-Work Support

WorkCover isn’t only about paying bills—it’s designed to help you recover and return to safe work where possible.
WorkSafe explains that a WorkSafe agent may approve the services of an occupational rehabilitation (OR) provider to help you return to work or remain at work, and that OR providers are independent professionals experienced in workplace injury return-to-work support. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

What an occupational rehabilitation provider can do

Depending on your situation, services can include:

• Return-to-work planning and coordination
• Worksite assessments and practical modifications
• Functional assessments (what you can safely do)
• Support with communication between you, treating practitioners, and the workplace
• Graduated return-to-work programs

WorkSafe’s Claims Manual describes that the types of OR services depend on the return-to-work goal, and lists that OR services have approved descriptions and fees. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

You can choose your OR provider

WorkSafe states that, as the injured worker, you are the only person who can choose your OR provider, and you must choose within 14 days (otherwise WorkSafe will choose one on your behalf). :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

Your role matters too

Return-to-work is a shared process. WorkSafe’s Claims Manual outlines worker return-to-work obligations such as making reasonable efforts to participate and cooperate in planning and assessments, and using occupational rehabilitation services where relevant. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}

Support If You Can’t Go Back to Your Old Job (New Employment Services)

Sometimes a worker can’t return to the pre-injury role—especially in physically demanding industries like construction, logistics, manufacturing, nursing, and trades.
In those cases, WorkCover can involve job-seeking support, training, and assistance to move into suitable work.

WorkSafe has a specific pathway called New Employer Services (NES), provided by an approved occupational rehabilitation provider, and the worker can choose the provider. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}

What this can look like in practice

• Helping you identify suitable job types based on your restrictions
• Resume, interview, and job-search support
• Skills identification and, in some cases, retraining support
• Connecting you with employers who can provide suitable duties

If you’re in this situation, it’s worth approaching it strategically: your “benefit” is not just money—it’s building a sustainable work future that doesn’t re-injure you.

Permanent Impairment Benefit (Lump Sum)

If your work-related injury or illness results in permanent impairment, you may be entitled to a lump sum called an impairment benefit.
WorkSafe explains this is a separate payment from lost income and medical expenses, and you need to meet certain thresholds to be eligible. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

What “permanent impairment” means

Think of it as lasting loss of function—something that remains even after treatment and recovery have stabilised.
WorkSafe gives examples like reduced shoulder movement, spinal cord injury, or amputated finger. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}

Why impairment benefits are important

This payment is often relevant when:

• You have lasting restrictions that affect work and daily life
• You’re approaching longer-term entitlement decisions (like 130 weeks)
• You need financial stability to support rehabilitation or a career transition

The claims process for impairment benefits is separate and involves impairment assessment and thresholds. WorkSafe’s Claims Manual describes impairment benefits as lump sum compensation for non-economic loss resulting from permanent impairment and notes that approved forms and processes apply. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}

Common Law Damages (Separate to WorkCover Benefits)

In addition to statutory WorkCover benefits (weekly payments and treatment expenses), some injured workers may have a right to pursue a common law claim for damages.
WorkSafe states that a person injured at or because of their work may have a right to sue their employer for damages. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}

Common law is a different pathway with different requirements and usually involves proving negligence and meeting serious injury thresholds. It’s not “automatic” just because you have a WorkCover claim.
If your injury is significant, it’s worth getting advice early so you understand which pathways you may have—and what evidence you’ll need.

Benefits if a Worker Dies from a Work-Related Injury or Illness

This is a hard topic, but it’s a critical part of WorkCover benefits in Victoria.
WorkSafe outlines entitlements following a work-related death for dependants, including a dependency lump sum and pensions in certain circumstances. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}

Dependants may include more than you expect

WorkSafe’s guidance about making a work-related death claim notes that dependants can include children (including unborn children) and may also include other family members or even non-family members in certain circumstances. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}

Partner weekly pension

WorkSafe notes that, in addition to the dependency lump sum, a dependent partner may receive a weekly pension for a period (WorkSafe describes a three-year period and explains the first 13 weeks are calculated as a percentage of the worker’s PIAWE up to a maximum). :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}

If you’re dealing with a death claim, these matters are sensitive and time-critical. Getting advice can reduce stress and ensure the right dependants are recognised and supported.

Practical Steps to Access Benefits in Melbourne

1) Report the injury early and in writing

This protects you later if the employer disputes what happened or when it happened. A simple email to your manager/HR is often enough.

2) See your GP and get the right certificates

If you need weekly payments, certificates of capacity are central. Be specific about functional limits (lifting, standing, concentration, driving, hours).

3) Lodge the WorkCover claim promptly

The earlier the claim is in the system, the sooner weekly payments and treatment approvals can start (where accepted).
Keep copies of your claim form, medical certificates, and any receipts.

4) Use your treating team to build consistent evidence

The “shape” of your claim is built through medical records: history of injury, symptoms, diagnosis, and capacity.
Inconsistent histories are a common reason claims become disputed or delayed.

5) Keep a simple WorkCover folder

• Incident report / email notification
• Claim form copy
• Certificates of capacity
• Receipts (sent within timeframes)
• Travel log and appointment confirmations
• Return-to-work plans and OR provider notes

Common Mistakes That Reduce or Delay Benefits

• Waiting too long to report the injury (disputes love delays)
• Gaps in certificates (weekly payments can stop if there’s no valid certificate covering the period)
• Paying for treatment without checking whether approval or referral is required (leading to unexpected gap fees)
• Not sending receipts within time (WorkSafe says receipts should be sent within 6 months of treatment) :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}
• Not claiming travel (many workers miss out on reimbursable parking/tolls/kilometres) :contentReference[oaicite:30]{index=30}
• Ignoring the 130-week planning window (leaving impairment/capacity issues until the last minute) :contentReference[oaicite:31]{index=31}

FAQ’s

What are the main WorkCover benefits in Victoria?

In general: weekly payments (income replacement), treatment expenses, travel expenses, rehab/return-to-work support, and potentially lump sums like impairment benefits. :contentReference[oaicite:32]{index=32}

How long do weekly payments last?

It depends on entitlement periods, your capacity, and review outcomes. WorkSafe explains the first entitlement period is the first 13 weeks, and weekly payments can be reviewed at key points like 130 weeks. :contentReference[oaicite:33]{index=33}

Can I still get help after weekly payments stop?

Often, yes. WorkSafe’s information for workers approaching the end of the second entitlement period notes that even if weekly payments stop after 130 weeks, other supports can continue, including ongoing treatment and a further period of medical and like expenses in certain circumstances. :contentReference[oaicite:34]{index=34}

Do I have to pay for treatment upfront?

Not always. WorkSafe prefers providers invoice the agent. If you pay upfront, WorkSafe says you can send receipts and you’ll be paid within 30 days of receipt by the agent, and receipts should be sent within 6 months of treatment. :contentReference[oaicite:35]{index=35}

Can WorkCover cover travel to treatment?

In many cases, yes. WorkSafe’s travel policy covers reimbursement for reasonable travel costs, including kilometres, parking and tolls where public transport is not practicable. :contentReference[oaicite:36]{index=36}

What is an impairment benefit?

It’s a lump sum payment that may be available if your work-related injury or illness resulted in a permanent impairment and you meet thresholds. WorkSafe describes it as separate from weekly payments and medical expenses. :contentReference[oaicite:37]{index=37}

Final Thoughts

WorkCover benefits in Victoria can be substantial—especially when you understand the full range: weekly payments, treatment costs, travel reimbursement, rehab and return-to-work services, and potentially lump sum payments like impairment benefits. :contentReference[oaicite:38]{index=38}

The key is timing and evidence. If you act early, document well, and get the right medical support, you’re far more likely to receive the benefits you’re entitled to—and avoid nasty surprises at major review points like 130 weeks. :contentReference[oaicite:39]{index=39}

Recommendation (Melbourne, Victoria):
If you want help understanding what benefits you can claim, dealing with an agent dispute, or planning around longer-term entitlement reviews, consider speaking with
Hymans Legal.
Phone: 1300 667 116