An employee is most likely to be injured at work in the first three months of starting in a new position. It is therefore vital to be aware of the hazards that can exist on the job and in the workplace. Your employer should provide all new employees with appropriate instruction, training (including on safety matters) and supervision.
Workers' compensation
Workers' compensation schemes help injured employees with rehabilitation and returning to work.
They also reimburse workers for any loss of wages and other expenses (including medical or required travel) incurred while the worker was unable to work due to a work-related injury.
As a general rule, employees can claim compensation if they are injured at work or while travelling from one work site to another at the direction of the employer. In some states and territories, injury incurred when travelling between your home and work is also covered.
Other laws relating to workers’ compensation are different in each state and territory. Go to the relevant website for details [all open in new windows]:
Your responsibilities
It is the employer’s duty to ensure that the workplace is safe, but working safely is your responsibility as well. You must respect the rights of others and abide by legislation protecting these rights.
This means that you should:
- report anything that has the potential to injure you or your work colleagues
- use all the protective equipment required for the work
- follow all safety instructions
- report all work-related incidents, injuries and near injuries, no matter how minor, to allow your employer to take steps to prevent any further incidents
- learn the proper fire safety and evacuation routes at your place(s) of employment
- fulfil your duty of care to your employer, your fellow employees and to the public
- adhere to safety principles and procedures set out in your workplace
- be familiar with, and adhere to, your employer's occupational health, safety and welfare policies, procedures and practices.
Further information