Getting your WorkCover claim rejected in Perth doesn’t mean you’ve lost your right to compensation. A denial is not final — it can be disputed, and many overturned claims result in full entitlements being paid.
As the leading personal injury lawyer in Perth, we help injured workers challenge rejections and secure the compensation they deserve. Our team knows the WorkCover system inside out, and we’re ready to fight for your rights every step of the way.
This article covers why claims get rejected, what your options are, and exactly what steps to take next.
Looking for expert legal advice you can rely on?
Simply fill out the form below and one of our consultants will be in touch to provide you with expert legal advice.
"*" indicates required fields
What Is WorkCover WA and How Does It Work?
WorkCover WA is the government body that oversees the workers’ compensation system in Western Australia. When an employee is injured at work, they are entitled to lodge a claim for compensation covering medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
Once a claim is lodged, the employer’s insurer reviews it and either accepts or rejects it. A rejection means the insurer has decided, for one reason or another, that your claim does not meet the criteria for compensation under the Workers’ Compensation and Injury Management Act 1981 (WA).
Common Reasons WorkCover Claims Are Rejected
Understanding why your claim was denied is the first step to challenging it. Insurers typically reject claims for the following reasons:
Injury not deemed work-related
The insurer argues the injury occurred outside work duties or premises.
Late lodgement
The claim was submitted outside the required timeframe.
Pre-existing condition
The insurer claims the injury is linked to a pre-existing medical issue, not a workplace incident.
Insufficient medical evidence
The documentation provided does not adequately support the nature or extent of the injury.
Disputed circumstances
There are inconsistencies in how the incident was reported or witnessed.
Receiving a rejection letter can feel like a dead end, but there are grounds where a rejection can be challenged, especially with the right legal support.
Step by Step Dispute Process
If your WorkCover claim has been rejected, disputing it involves a clear, structured process. Here’s what to expect at each stage:
Read the notice carefully and note the reasons and deadlines. You generally have 12 months to dispute, but acting sooner is always advisable.
Before taking any action, consult a personal injury lawyer before taking any action. They’ll assess your claim and guide you through the correct process.
File a dispute application with WorkCover WA’s Conciliation and Arbitration Service. Your lawyer will help you prepare the application and supporting documentation.
Both parties present their case to a conciliator who works toward a resolution without going to court.
If conciliation fails, the dispute moves to a formal arbitration hearing where a binding decision is made.
Claim Eligibility Checker
Not sure whether your situation qualifies for a dispute? You’re not alone. Many rejected claimants don’t realise their case can still be challenged. Answer the three quick questions below to get a clearer picture of where you stand. It only takes 30 seconds.
Was your injury directly caused by your work or workplace environment?
Did you lodge your WorkCover claim within the required timeframe after the injury occurred?
Do you have any medical records or documentation that support your injury?
Strong grounds
You may have strong grounds to dispute.
Your answers suggest a strong basis to challenge the decision. It's still recommended to get legal advice to confirm your options.
Get a case review from CLP Legal →Possible grounds
Your claim may still be disputable.
You may still have options depending on your evidence and circumstances. A legal review with CLP Legal will give you a clear answer.
Get a case review from CLP Legal →Needs review
Your case may need more support.
Your case may still have options, but stronger evidence or legal review may be needed.
Talk to CLP Legal →This tool gives a general indication only and is not legal advice. Every WorkCover claim depends on its specific facts.
Note: This provides a general guide only and does not constitute legal advice. For a proper assessment of your situation, contact CLP Legal for consultation.
Ready Challenge Rejected WorkCover Claim?
If you have received a claim rejection and are unsure what to do next, seeking professional advice could be the first step towards achieving a better outcome.
Contact us today for a confidential, obligation-free consultation and let’s get your claim back on track.
