Can you claim workers compensation injury outside of work?

Can You Claim Compensation for Injuries Outside the Office During Work Hours?

Many Queenslanders think workplace injuries must involve an office or factory floor, but your right to claim compensation may extend well beyond the four walls of your workplace. If you’ve been hurt while out and about in the course of your job (like commuting to work, on a client visit, or even grabbing lunch), you could still be eligible for workers’ compensation.

At Cairns Compensation Lawyers, our team of workers’ compensation lawyers in Cairns helps employees understand and assert their rights under Queensland law. Here’s what you need to know about out-of-office work injuries and how the law protects you.

What Are Out-of-Office Work Injuries?

Work-related injuries don’t just happen at your desk or on an industrial site. They can also occur when you’re working away or travelling to and from your usual workplace.

In Queensland, many workers experience injuries while commuting or performing work tasks off-site, such as injuries can range from physical strains caused by manual tasks to slips and falls, or even psychological stress related to remote or isolated work environments.

• While commuting between home and your workplace.
• Travelling to a client meeting or off-site work event.
• Heading to or from a training course or conference for work.
• Going to a medical or rehab appointment related to an existing workers’ compensation claim.
• During intrastate, interstate, or even international work-related travel.
• While working remotely or from home under a flexible arrangement.

If your accident happened during or because of your work, and not due to private errands, you could have a strong claim.

When Are You Eligible for Workers’ Compensation?

Queensland workers’ compensation law recognises that your job doesn’t always fit neatly into regular office hours or locations. To be eligible for compensation, your injury usually needs to:

• Occur while you’re engaged in work-related activity.
• Happen on a direct journey between your home and your workplace (with no significant personal detours or delays).

For example, if you’re on your way to work and slip at the train station, you may be able to lodge a claim. However, if you stop at the supermarket or run a personal errand before heading to work, this could break the “work connection” and make your claim ineligible.

When Are Claims Not Accepted?

There are exceptions. You usually can’t claim workers’ compensation if:

• You were injured because you broke the law (e.g., a road rule violation on your commute).
• Your injury occurred after a significant deviation or delay for personal reasons.
• The incident happened outside the time or place considered to be connected with your job.

Doing personal errands on the way to work, or being injured at home before work begins, generally won’t be covered. If in doubt, get advice from experienced workplace compensation lawyers.

What About Accidents in Work Vehicles?

If your accident happens in a vehicle owned by your employer, your compensation rights are usually the same as if you were driving your own car for work reasons. You may also have the right to a motor vehicle accident claim (with or without fault), so speak to our car accident lawyers for tailored advice.

What If Your Employer Self-Insures or Isn’t Insured?

In Queensland, employers must legally have workers’ compensation insurance, usually via WorkCover Queensland or a licensed self-insurer. If your employer self-insures, you can still claim, but you may deal directly with their internal insurer.

If your employer is uninsured, you should still lodge a claim with WorkCover Queensland. Should your claim succeed, WorkCover will pay you and later recover the amount from your employer.

Working with experienced WorkCover claim lawyers ensures your rights are protected, whatever your employer’s situation.

What About Injuries in Public or Non-Work Settings?

In some cases, a work-related injury might also fall under public liability law, like if you’re hurt due to unsafe conditions in a public place, even while on a work task. Our public liability claims specialists can advise if you’re eligible for a separate or additional claim.

What Should You Do After an Out-of-Office Injury?

To give yourself the best chance of a successful claim:

• Report your injury promptly to your employer
• Collect evidence, such as photos of the scene and names of witnesses
• Visit a doctor and keep records of your diagnosis and any time off work
• Avoid long delays – strict time limits apply under Queensland law

If your claim is denied or delayed, seek prompt help from lawyers in Cairns. Our specialists can review your case, push for fair treatment, and support appeals if needed.

Need Help Understanding Your Rights?

Don’t let uncertainty hold you back from the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured while working away from your normal workplace — including during commutes and offsite work trips – call our friendly team of workers’ compensation lawyers in Cairns today.

Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, please consult a qualified legal representative.