What Am I Entitled to if My Comcare Claim Is Accepted?

If you’re a Commonwealth employee or work for a national employer covered under the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (SRC Act), your workers compensation claim will likely be managed by Comcare – the Commonwealth’s work injury insurer. 

Having your claim accepted can bring significant relief, but understanding exactly what you’re entitled to is just as important. Here’s a clear overview of the key benefits available once your Comcare claim is accepted. 

1. Weekly Compensation for Lost Income

If your injury or illness stops you from working, Comcare may pay weekly compensation to replace your income. 

• Full incapacity – If you can’t work at all, you may receive your full pre-injury salary for a set period. 
• Partial incapacity – If you can return to work but on reduced hours or duties, you may receive top-up payments to cover part of your lost wages. 

These payments can continue while you remain unfit for your pre-injury role, although the rate may reduce over time. The aim is to help you maintain financial stability while you recover or transition back to work. 

 2. Medical and Treatment Expenses

Comcare covers reasonable medical expenses related to your work injury or illness. This can include: 

• Doctor and specialist consultations 
• Surgery, hospital and rehabilitation costs 
• Physiotherapy, psychology, and other allied health treatments 
• Medications and diagnostic scans 
• Travel costs for medical appointments 

You’ll usually need prior approval for ongoing or higher-cost treatments, so it’s wise to keep your treating practitioners and lawyer informed throughout your recovery. 

3. Household and Attendant Care Services

If your injury limits your ability to manage daily activities, Comcare may pay for home help or attendant care. Examples include: 

• Cleaning, laundry or meal preparation assistance 
• Gardening or home maintenance 
• Personal care support 

These services must be directly related to your injury and recommended by your treating medical practitioner. 

4. Permanent Impairment Compensation

If your injury or illness results in a permanent impairment, you may be entitled to a lump sum payment. 

To qualify, your degree of impairment must reach a minimum threshold (usually 10% for physical injuries, or 10% for psychiatric conditions). The amount you receive depends on the level of impairment assessed under Comcare’s Guide to the Assessment of the Degree of Permanent Impairment. 

This lump sum is separate from your weekly payments and can provide financial recognition for the lasting effects of your injury. 

5. Death and Dependency Benefits

If a worker dies as a result of a work-related injury or illness, their dependants may be entitled to: 

• A lump sum payment 
• Ongoing weekly benefits for dependent children 
• Coverage of reasonable funeral expenses 

These payments can make a significant difference in helping families cope after a tragic loss. 

6. Rehabilitation and Return-to-Work Assistance

Comcare promotes recovery and independence through rehabilitation programs, which may include: 

• Vocational rehabilitation and retraining 
• Equipment or workplace modifications 
• Support to help you return to suitable employment 

A tailored rehabilitation plan can help you get back to work safely and confidently. 

Why Legal Advice Matters 

Even when a Comcare claim is accepted, disputes can arise about the type, duration, or amount of compensation you receive. Seeking advice from an experienced Comcare claims lawyer can help you: 

• Ensure you’re receiving your full entitlements 
• Challenge decisions to reduce or stop benefits 
• Access lump sum compensation for permanent impairment 
• Navigate complex medical and administrative requirements 

Get in Touch 

TGB Lawyers has extensive experience helping Commonwealth employees and contractors with Comcare workers compensation claims across Australia. 

If your claim has been accepted – or if you’re unsure about what you’re entitled to – our team can guide you through every step to protect your rights and secure your benefits. 

Contact us today to speak with one of our Comcare lawyers about your situation or visit www.tgb.com.au to learn more. 

📞 1800 730 842 

Email Alex Harris – aharris@tgb.com.au 

Complete our brief enquiry form and one of our Comcare lawyers will get in touch.