Workplace Research Monthly

For:
Claimants Employers and managers Service providers Advocates Information seekers

Each month, read about the latest research on the health benefits of work, recovery at work, return to work, and work health and safety issues.

Subscribe to the Workplace Research Monthly

Exploring worker wellbeing through lived experience: when a claim is finalised

Around 20% of injured workers with workers’ compensation claims experience significant negative outcomes after the completion of their claim, with some workers struggling to adapt to a “new normal”.

A recent study from Curtin University in Western Australia explored the factors that contribute to worker wellbeing after a claim is finalised. The study assessed the lived experience of 20 injured workers with finalised claims.

Negative outcomes included persistent health issues, psychological impacts from the physical injury, unstable work status and issues returning to work. Participants also described a perceived stigma and discrimination about their claim, and felt the need to hide their injury and claim history from employers.

The study highlighted the importance of ongoing support for workers exiting a claim to help facilitate the transition. This includes continued health care, mental health support, career support and tailored resources to help workers navigate life after a claim.

Read more

2026 editions

 

Past editions

2025 editions

More information

For more information, email research@comcare.gov.au

 

Page last reviewed: 15 days ago
Was this page helpful?