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Workers Compensation Lawyer for Illness Claims
If you’ve become ill or contracted a disease as a result of your work, understanding your rights to compensation is crucial for your recovery. We can help – reach out to Persich Personal Injury for reliable legal advice today.

Who Can Make Workers’ Comp Claims for Illnesses?
Under the Workers’ Compensation scheme in Western Australia, there are a range of different illnesses that you can potentially seek compensation for. These include:
- Infectious diseases
- Malignant diseases
- Mental and neuropsychiatric diseases
- Diseases of the nervous system
- Respiratory diseases
- Hepatic diseases
- Skin diseases
- Musculoskeletal diseases
- Poisoning or toxicity
If you have been diagnosed with an illness or disease and it was contracted in the course of your employment, or if you have a pre-existing disease that was made worse, you may be entitled to compensation.
To maximise your claim, contact Persich Personal Injury today for your Free, No Obligation First Consultation.
What Can I Claim For Illness at Work?
If you have a workers’ compensation claim for illness contracted as a result of work, you may be entitled to compensation for the following:
01
Medical Treatment Costs
Reimbursement for expenses related to medical care and rehabilitation, including medications and specialist appointments.
02
Economic Loss
Compensation for loss of income due to being unable to work as a result of your illness or disease.
03
Permanent Impairment
Lump sum payment for any permanent damage or ongoing symptoms resulting from the illness or disease.
04
Death or Funeral Benefits
If you die as a result of a work-related illness or disease.
The severity of your illness can significantly affect the amount of compensation to which you are entitled. Seeking legal advice from an experienced occupational and industrial illness lawyer in Perth, like Jonathan Persich, can help you better understand your rights and maximise your claim potential.
Which WA Industries are Most at Risk for Occupational Diseases?
In Western Australia, workers in industries such as construction, mining, manufacturing and healthcare face a heightened risk of contracting occupational illnesses due to ongoing exposure to dust, chemicals, biological hazards and heavy-duty work environments. According to WorkSafe WA, diseases and health issues caused by workplace exposure are a serious concern across multiple sectors.
Whether you’re cutting concrete, handling asbestos, working underground or assisting patients, these exposures can lead to long-term health consequences. Some of the most common conditions include:
- Asbestosis and mesothelioma
- Silicosis
- Occupational cancers (such as melanoma)
- Blood-borne diseases (such as hepatitis B)
- Respiratory illnesses (including occupational asthma)
- Contact dermatitis and other skin conditions
If you believe your illness is a result of your work, it’s important to seek advice on your rights and potential compensation.
What Steps Should I Take?
After becoming aware that you have contracted an illness at work, you should firstly seek medical attention before attending your GP to complete a ‘First Certificate of Capacity’. Following this you should complete a ‘Workers Compensation Claim Form’ and file this form, along with a copy of the ‘First Certificate of Capacity’ upon your employer.
After providing these forms to your employer, book in your Free, No Obligation First Consultation with us. We’ll advise you of your rights and explain how we can maximise your compensation.
Book Your Free, No Obligation First Consultation
Illnesses or diseases obtained due to your work can have a detrimental effect on your life. At Persich Personal Injury, we’re here to help protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve in your time of need. We operate on a No Win, No Fee basis and offer a completely confidential Free, No Obligation First Consultation. Reach out to us on (08) 6288 2220 today.
Workplace Illness Frequently Asked Questions
Read our FAQs to find out more about occupational and industrial illness claims. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact us on (08) 6288 2220.
What is an industrial disease claim?
An industrial disease claim is a type of compensation claim made when your work has caused, contributed to, or worsened an illness or medical condition. This can include long-term exposure to dust, chemicals, fumes, biological hazards or unsafe work practices.
Do I need to prove that my work caused or aggravated the illness?
Yes, but the standard of proof is not as strict as people often think. You don’t need to show that work was the only cause of your illness. Instead, you need to show that workplace exposure was a significant contributing factor or that your job made your condition worse.
Medical evidence and workplace history usually play a big role here. We can help gather the right reports, records and expert opinions to show how your employment contributed to the disease.
What if my employer denies responsibility?
It’s quite common for employers, or their insurers, to deny responsibility at first. This doesn’t mean you don’t have a valid claim. If there is medical support for your condition and evidence that your work exposed you to harmful substances or risks, your claim can still succeed.

