NSW emergency service workers such as police officers, paramedics and firefighters are covered by different compensation laws compared to other workers. The RMB Compensation Division explains:
NSW workers compensation legislation has faced many amendments over the years. In 2012, changes to worker’s entitlements had an exemption for those considered to be “exempt workers” such as paramedics, police and firefighters.
NSW emergency service workers are recognisably undertaking extremely difficult jobs.
For example, in 2025 we unfortunately lost 43 lives on NSW roads in the first two months of the year. Our NSW emergency service workers are the first responders attending to these scenes, helping someone’s family member, friend or relative.
They are required to attend scenes where they may have to witness and deal with things that nobody should ever have to confront.
This understandably takes an enormous toll on our emergency service workers. Unfortunately, as a result of the traumatic conditions of their employment, we are noticing that many NSW emergency service workers are suffering from psychological conditions including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
It is important that NSW emergency service workers understand their workers compensation entitlements and what legal options are available to them.
Entitlements
Exempt workers are entitled to claim weekly payments if they are partially or totally unable to undertake work.
They can request payment of all medical expenses which are considered reasonable and necessary as a result of the work-related injury or illness.
Travel expenses can also be reimbursed in particular circumstances.
Exempt workers have the option of pursuing a claim for lump sum compensation for permanent impairment. This may be issued in addition to any other workers compensation entitlements.
To be entitled to a lump sum compensation payment, exempt workers must:
- For physical injuries: Have a minimum impairment assessment of 1%
- For psychological injuries: Have a minimum impairment assessment of 15%
These requirements are different to other workers. For other workers to be entitled to payment of lump sum compensation they must have a minimum impairment assessment of 10% for physical injuries and 15% for psychological injuries.
An additional payment for pain and suffering up to a maximum of $50,000 is only available to exempt workers in circumstances where it is agreed that they suffer from a minimum impairment of:
- 10% for physical injuries
- 15% for psychological injuries
We strongly recommend contacting our workers compensation experts to discuss your workers compensation rights. You can contact us by by phone or our 'Ask a Question' tool on our website.