QLD Workers’ Compensation: The workers’ compensation insurer has made a decision I disagree with. Can I have this decision reviewed?

If not already provided, a worker, claimant, or employer may request from the insurer written reasons for decision within twenty (20) business days of being advised of that decision.  

Thereafter, an application for review must be made within three (3) months of receiving the written reasons for decision document from the insurer.  

It is possible to have an application for review to be lodged outside of this three (3) month period, pursuant to ss 542(2) and (3) of the Act. However, the Regulator must be satisfied that special circumstances exist that prevented the lodgment of the application. Such circumstances may include medical circumstances that meant the Applicant was not capable of lodging the review within three month, if accompanied by medical evidence in support. An extension of the timeframe for submission can only be granted once, as the Regulator does not have the jurisdiction to grant further additional extensions.  

Following lodgment of the application, the Workers’ Compensation Regulator must make a decision within twenty-five (25) business days, unless an extension is granted. The written decision will then be provided to the parties within ten (10) days. The Regulator will either confirm the original decision, vary the original decision, set aside the original decision and substitute another decision, or set aside the original decision and return it to the Insurer with directions.