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Workers’ compensation: Construction injury

Workers' compensation

Construction and building sites can be dangerous places to work, combining heavy machinery and equipment, power tools, working at height and different tradespeople working to different schedules.

The construction industry accounts for a significant percentage of seriousworkers' compensation claims in Australia each year.

Check if you have a claim with our simple, free online tool.

What we will ask: 

  • Details about the accident and injuries that have happened to you or your loved one 

  • Basic personal information that is relevant and necessary for your claim

What happens next:  

  • Either book a no obligation appointment with a compensation law expert right away or,    

  • Speak with our team about your options

Construction injury compensation 

The construction industry includes site preparation, construction, alteration or demolition of buildings or other structures. If you’re you are injured in an accident in a construction, you may be able to claim for injuries to cover lost earnings, medical costs and personal loss.

Injuries or accidents in the construction industry may be caused by:

  • Collapsing scaffolding or an object falling from scaffolding

  • Faulty lifts 

  • Falls from a height 

  • Falls, trips and slips

  • Power tools and machinery

  • Power tool and machinery injuries 

  • Toxic substances such as silica, asbestos or other dusts

  • Exposure to cement containing chromium  

According to Safe Work Australia, 76% of construction industry workers are classed as employees and are covered by a workers’ compensation scheme.

Despite your employment status of full time, part time or casual, An an employee you’re entitled to workers’ compensation. If you’re not classified as an employee, we may also still be able to help you with a compensation claim.

Common construction injuries 

The most common injuries on construction sites include:

  • Spine, neck and head injuries

  • Body stressing injuries to joints and muscles

  • Fractures 

  • Lifting injuries

  • Being hit by a moving object

  • Psychiatric injuries

What compensation can you claim after an accident in construction?

Your compensation claims for injuries after an accident in construction depends on the circumstances of your injury, including the state or territory where it happened. Your compensation entitlements may include:  

  • Medical, hospital and rehabilitation expenses 

  • Loss of wages 

  • Return to work services, such as retraining and education 

  • Pain and suffering 

  • Permanent impairment 

  • Total and permanent disability compensation (TPD)*

  • Death compensation for your loved ones

How compensation is calculated for accidents in construction 

Compensation is calculated based on a number of things, such as:

  • The circumstances of your injury 

  • The seriousness of your injury 

  • Your lost opportunity to earn an income because of your injuries 

  • Pain and suffering 

  • Any expenses you have incurred because of your injury 

  • The relevant workers’ compensation laws in your state or territory

To determine compensation in most instances, a monetary value is placed on the difference between your projected life path before the accident in construction, and your actual life path since the accident. Once an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer knows your specific situation, you should have a better understanding of your potential claim for injuries.

Superannuation and Disability Insurance  

If you can’t work due to your illness or injury, caused by an accident in construction you might also be entitled to benefits through your superannuation or other insurance policies. We recommend speaking to one of our experts for a quick, obligation-free analysis of your situation to determine your rights and ability to make a claim.  

Learn more about Superannuation and Disability Insurance Claims

How Shine can help with your workers' compensation claim

We have helped thousands of Australians right wrong and access more than $1 billion in entitlements and compensation through our expert services.  

95% of the cases we represent are settled without the stress of going to court. 

We offer access to affordable legal advice including on a No Win, No Fee* basis and an obligation free initial consultation so you can understand your rights and know where you stand.  

*Conditions apply  

We are ready to take action to get you access to compensation, protect your future and right wrong.  Find out more today:

Construction injury FAQs

Can I represent myself, or do I need a construction injury lawyer? 

It is possible to legally represent yourself when making claims for injuries after an accident in construction however, doing so successfully will likely require a thorough understanding of:

  • The relevant law

  • Time limitations for making an accident in construction claim in your state or territory

  • Your legal rights and entitlements

  • A commitment to actively pursue the case to move it forward   

Without an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in your corner, it can be difficult to identify and highlight the strengths of your case. 

You then may not receive the compensation you're entitled to.

Why trust Shine to be my construction injury lawyers?

At Shine Lawyers, we put you first. We’ve been standing up for the rights of everyday Australians for over 45 years. As one of Australia’s largest litigation law firms, we are here to help you get the justice you deserve.  

Our empathy, understanding and expertise is why we’re ahead of the pack. We’ll stand with you and guide you through every step of the way.

Where are Shine construction injury lawyers located?

With more than 40 branches across Australia and 1000+ team members, location is no barrier when it comes to accessing Shine Lawyers legal advice and support.

If you’d like to speak to our workers’ compensation team in person, you can see our full list of locations here.

If you can't find a location near you, we can easily arrange an obligation-free virtual appointment. No matter where you are located, we will always provide the same, expert advice and manage your claim with the same level of quality and commitment.

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