31/08/2026
⚠️ “I told my supervisor” does not necessarily mean your workers compensation claim has been lodged.
In South Australia, notifying your employer and making a formal claim are related—but they are not the same step.
Under section 16 of the Return to Work Act 2014 (SA), a worker should, where practicable, notify their employer within 24 hours of a work injury, or otherwise as soon as practicable.
Notice can be oral or written and should identify when and where the injury occurred, its nature and its cause.
A formal compensation claim is dealt with separately under section 30.
It generally requires the approved claim process and supporting medical certification.
Although the usual claim period is six months from when the entitlement arises, statutory exceptions can apply—so a delayed claim is not necessarily hopeless.
My practical advice after an injury is:
- Report it promptly—preferably in writing.
- Record when, where and how it happened.
- See a doctor and explain the workplace connection clearly.
- Obtain a Work Capacity Certificate if you have lost time from work.
- Confirm that a claim has actually been submitted and obtain the claim number.
Early documentation can prevent avoidable arguments months later.
If you have suffered a work injury in South Australia and are unsure whether your claim has been properly lodged, obtaining advice early can help clarify your position.
General information only—not legal advice.
