FAQs

Question

Answer

For all claims lodged on or after 10 November 1995, lump sum compensation is not payable unless you have a hearing loss, measured over both ears, of at least 6%.

Although your hearing loss may not reach 6% you are still entitled to claim the cost of hearing aids and weekly payments of compensation caused by hearing loss, as well as certain hearing tests.

The procedure for obtaining benefits in respect of industrial deafness is different to the procedure for obtaining benefits in respect of any other occupational disease.

• As soon as you detect the hearing loss you should obtain a Medical Report from an Audiologist. This referral can be arranged through your General Practitioner.

• A completed Notice of Injury form should be sent to the current employer or the last noisy employer. You may obtain a Notice of Injury form from your employer or the WorkCover Bookshop.

• You should give the completed Notice of Injury form along with any medical certificates or receipts for medical or chemist expenses to the employer or insurer.

• When the insurance company receives your claim for industrial deafness it will arrange a medical examination by an:
  • Audiologist selected by the Insurer or - A Medical Panel - organised if there is a medical dispute.

• If the insurer's Audiologist finds the percentage of hearing loss to be the same as your Audiologist's, then the insurer may agree to pay you a lump sum amount as prescribed by the Workers Compensation Act, 1987.

• If there is a difference in the findings between your's and the Insurer's Audiologist you may be referred to the Medical Panel. Medical Panels can be convened if there is a medical dispute. Your hearing condition is then assessed by the panel. Applications for the medical panel may be made by you, an insurer (on the employer's behalf) or a solicitor representing either party. The examinations are conducted by medical practitioners who are generally in private practice and are appointed as referees by the Compensation Court.

The decision of the Medical Panel in any case of Industrial Deafness is final and conclusive. The insurer should then prepare the terms of settlement which advises you of the sum payable for hearing loss.

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Last modified: Tuesday, 15-Nov-2005 20:37:33 EST