Psychological Injury Claims in Queensland

Psychological injuries covered by WorkCover

WorkCover Queensland recognises that psychological injuries sustained in the course of employment are compensable. These include work-related anxiety disorders, depression caused or significantly worsened by workplace conditions, post-traumatic stress disorder from witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event at work, adjustment disorders following workplace changes or incidents, and psychological injury resulting from workplace bullying or harassment. It is important to know that psychological injuries are treated with the same legitimacy as physical injuries under Queensland workers' compensation law.

Who can claim for psychological injury

Any Queensland worker who develops a psychological condition as a result of their employment may be eligible for WorkCover. Common scenarios include first responders (paramedics, police, firefighters) exposed to traumatic events, healthcare workers experiencing burnout and compassion fatigue, workers subjected to sustained bullying, harassment, or a hostile work environment, employees who have witnessed a serious workplace accident or death, and workers experiencing severe stress from unreasonable workload, management practices, or workplace conflict. There are some exclusions — psychological injuries arising solely from reasonable management action (such as performance management or restructuring) may not be covered. However, the boundaries of this exclusion are often narrower than employers suggest, and legal advice can clarify your position.

Your entitlements for a psychological injury claim

For an accepted psychological injury claim, you may be entitled to weekly compensation payments while you are unable to work, coverage of treatment including psychology, psychiatry, counselling, and medication, rehabilitation support including vocational rehabilitation, and lump sum compensation if the injury results in permanent impairment. The level of support available for psychological injuries has improved significantly in recent years, reflecting greater understanding of mental health in the workplace.

How to start a psychological injury claim

Starting a psychological injury claim can feel daunting, but the process is straightforward with the right support. See your GP or a mental health professional and let them know the condition is work-related. Your doctor provides a WorkCover medical certificate. Report the injury to your employer. Your employer lodges the claim with WorkCover Queensland. ClaimHub Legal can support you through this process with sensitivity and discretion. Every conversation is confidential.

Confidential support from ClaimHub Legal

We understand that psychological injury claims are deeply personal. ClaimHub Legal treats every mental health claim with complete confidentiality and genuine care. Viktoria Teed has extensive experience with psychological injury claims and understands the unique challenges they present. If you are struggling with your mental health because of work, please reach out — even if you are not sure whether you have a claim. Call 1300 390 394 or use our confidential free claim check online.