Our commitment to service
The Workers Compensation Commission is an independent statutory tribunal and is part of the justice system in New South Wales.
The Commission provides fair, just, timely, and cost effective resolution of workers compensation disputes.
The Commission is also committed to access and equity for all the people who use its services and the Access & Equity Service Charter details this commitment.
Below is a summary of the main points of the Charter:
How the Commission can assist you
The Commission offers an informal dispute resolution service to resolve workers compensation disputes between injured workers and employers.
The Commission's Arbitrators are trained to conduct Commission proceedings in a way that is fair to all parties. At every stage of the process Arbitrators encourage and assist parties reach agreement. Where agreement cannot be reached Arbitrators will issue a binding decision.
If you have a dispute before the Commission, you should take an active role in how your case is progressing. At any stage you may contact the Commission for assistance or information if you need it.
The Commission realises that a workers compensation dispute can be stressful for everyone concerned and is committed to ensuring that it provides clear, useful and timely information about the dispute resolution process.
How much does it cost to come to the Commission?
Cost is no barrier in having a workers compensation dispute heard:
- The Commission provides it services free to all parties.
- There are no fees for lodging your dispute.
- Generally, employers pay any legal costs associated with workers compensation disputes.
The only circumstance in which a worker would be liable for legal costs is if an application is made without proper justification, or is determined to be frivolous, vexatious or fraudulent.
What if I don't have a lawyer?
You can come to the Commission without a lawyer or the help of an agent such as a union representative. However, it is important to realise that the other people (or parties) involved in your case may have legal representation.
If you do not have legal representation and you require assistance you should let the Commission know. We recognize that you may need assistance with:
- understanding how the Commission operates and what to expect
- lodging your dispute
- preparing and presenting your dispute
The commission can provide this information to you including sending our DVD, which helps you understand our dispute resolution process, and how you can be involved.
If you have a conciliation/arbitration hearing the Arbitrator will also ensure that you understand what is happening and can assist you to write down any agreement that you reach with the other party.
I have a disability. Can you assist me?
All members of the community have equal access to the Commission's services. Assistance is provided for people with disabilities to enable them to participate in the Commission's proceeding