A settlement agreement finalises your workers compensation claim.
Before you enter into a settlement agreement it is recommended that you obtain independent legal advice. You can also contact our Advice and Assistance Service on 1300 794 744 for general information about settlement agreements.
If you enter into a settlement agreement, you will not be entitled to any further compensation under the Workers Compensation and Injury Management Act 2023 (the Act) for your claim, which includes medical and health expenses and income compensation payments.
A settlement agreement may include lump sum compensation for income compensation payments, medical and health expenses, and/or permanent impairment. A settlement may also prevent you from pursuing common law damages.
If you have pursued common law action against your employer, you may be able to enter a common law settlement. You can read more about common law claims and the restrictions that apply to the awarding of damages on the Common law claims page.
A settlement may affect other entitlements
Entering into a settlement agreement may affect your entitlement to Centrelink benefits, so it is important to contact Centrelink before making a final decision on settling your claim.
It is also advisable for you to contact the Australian Taxation Office, Medicare and your private health insurance fund to find out if there are other possible implications of entering into a settlement agreement.
