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WorkCover,
explained clearly

WorkCover can feel complex when you are already managing an injury. This page explains the pathway in plain language — so you know what to expect at every stage.

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How WorkCover works

01

Injury Happens

After a workplace injury, your first priority is safety. Seek immediate medical attention, then notify your employer.

02

Initial Assessment

A clinician assesses your injury, documents your condition, and issues a WorkCover certificate where appropriate.

03

Claim & Certificate

WorkCover documentation is prepared and lodged. Your certificate outlines your injury and current work capacity.

04

Investigations & Referrals

Imaging and specialist referrals are arranged based on your injury, so your treatment plan is built on accurate clinical information.

05

Treatment & Rehabilitation

Treatment proceeds — this may include physiotherapy, specialist care, or surgery, followed by structured rehabilitation.

06

Return to Work

As you recover, a practical return-to-work plan is developed aligned to your capacity and employer requirements.

07

Review & Finalisation

Regular reviews track progress. At the appropriate stage, permanent impairment may be assessed to finalise your claim.

“We are here to guide you through every stage of this process.”

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What to bring to your appointment

  • Photo ID and contact details
  • Referral letter (if you have one)
  • WorkCover claim number or insurer details (if available)
  • Recent scans, reports, or test results
  • Current medication list
  • Questions about your treatment or recovery

WorkCover questions

What is WorkCover in Western Australia (in plain language)?

WorkCover WA is the workers’ compensation and injury management scheme for workplace injuries and illnesses in Western Australia. In practical terms, it is the pathway that connects medical care, employer responsibilities, insurer claim management, and return-to-work planning after a work injury. This page explains the stages you are likely to encounter; your individual claim can still vary. This information is educational and is not legal advice.

I’ve been referred to another doctor. Can I still be seen at Premier Health?

Yes. Being referred elsewhere does not stop you contacting us or booking an appointment here, subject to scheme rules and what makes clinical sense for your care. If you are unsure whether treatment should stay with another practitioner or include Premier Health, call or email reception and we will help you sort the next step. Employers or insurers may still request separate independent assessments for claim decisions — that is different from choosing where you receive treatment.

When should I notify my employer?

After ensuring safety and getting urgent medical help if needed, notify your employer as soon as practicable. Early notification helps with incident recording, claim lodgement, and planning suitable duties. Bring employer contact details to your appointment if you have them.

What is a WorkCover medical certificate and why does it matter?

A WorkCover medical certificate documents your injury and your current work capacity from a clinical perspective. It helps employers and insurers understand what duties are safe and what treatment is planned. Certificates are updated as your condition changes — they should reflect clinical findings at the time of review.

Who lodges the claim and who notifies the insurer?

Processes can involve both the worker and the employer. Employers typically have obligations to record the incident and notify their insurer within required timeframes, while workers provide injury details and participate in medical assessment. We can help with clinical documentation; we do not replace your employer’s claim-notification duties.

What happens when it is time to return to work?

Return to work is usually staged. As capacity improves, a practical plan is developed with suitable duties, hours, and review points matched to your role and medical limits. We coordinate with employers and insurers where involved so expectations are clear and safety comes first.

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