Can I retire while on workers compensation?
Written by
Principal Lawyer and Director · Last updated 30 August 2026
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Key takeaway: Yes, you can retire while on workers compensation. In NSW weekly payments can continue for up to 12 months after you reach retiring age, medical expenses stay payable for up to 12 months after weekly benefits cease, and your insurer must give you at least 13 weeks written notice before stopping payments.
Retiring While on Workers Compensation: Quick Answers
What happens to my workers’ compensation when I retire?
If you have been receiving weekly payments through your workers’ compensation claim and you have reached retirement age, you can continue receiving weekly payments for up to one more year. Additionally, medical expenses are paid up to 12 months from when an insurer ceases to be liable to compensate weekly benefits. In this case, it is the employer or the insurer’s obligation to notify the worker at least 13 weeks before ceasing the weekly payments. The written notification must state the exact dates that the weekly payments will cease and the last payment will be processed. Similarly, the exact date on which medical benefits will cease after retirement should be provided to the worker by the insurer. There is no time restriction arising from retirement for other compensation such as medical and funeral expenses.
Can you retire while on workers compensation?
Yes, an employee can retire and receive weekly payments for up to 12 months. In NSW, benefits can be paid until age 65, or in certain cases, for up to 2 years after the age of 65.
Here is an example:
If a worker who is 64 years-old suffers an injury or illness, the worker can receive compensation for a maximum of 104 weeks which extends beyond age 65. For a full breakdown of duration rules, see our guide on how long you can stay on workers comp.
Timing is crucial when it comes to retirement and workers compensation. You should directly consult our workers compensation lawyers for free advice regarding your workers compensation claim.
How do I make a workers compensation claim?
First, you should notify your employer about the injury and that you will need to take leave to consult your General Practitioner (GP). Depending on the medical advice of your GP you can then consider completing a work injury claim form and submit it to your employer along with your GP’s completed Certificate of Capacity on your injury and capacity to work. Please note you have 6 months to lodge a Work Injury Claim Form from the date of the accident. If your injury was beyond 6 months and you still have not lodged a work injury claim form, contact our workers compensation lawyers and we will advise you if your claim will still be reasonably be accepted depending on your circumstances.
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Our workers’ compensation lawyers simplify the legal process for you. While our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers are working on your claim, you can focus on your recovery and enjoy your retirement. Reach us for a free claim check!
Retiring on Workers Compensation FAQs
Can you retire while on workers compensation in NSW?
How long do weekly workers compensation payments continue after retirement age?
What happens to my medical expenses when I retire on workers compensation?
How much notice must the insurer give before stopping weekly payments when I retire?
What if I am injured at work close to retirement age?
How long do I have to lodge a workers compensation claim?
Can I still claim workers compensation more than 6 months after my injury?
Does retirement affect other compensation like funeral expenses?
About the author
Issa Rabaya · Principal Lawyer and Director
✓ Admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW and High Court of Australia ✓ LLB ✓ IRO-approved ✓ Law Society of NSW
Acts for injured people in CTP, workers compensation, TPD and public liability claims.
Why Choose Withstand Lawyers for Your Workers Compensation Claim?
Withstand Lawyers understands that a serious injury near the end of your working life is frightening, because retirement plans suddenly depend on getting your entitlements right. Withstand Lawyers has spent decades guiding injured workers through exactly these decisions, recovering more than $60 million for clients with a 99% success rate. While our team manages the insurer, the paperwork and the deadlines, you focus on your health and your retirement. Withstand Lawyers acts on a No Win No Fee basis, so there is nothing to pay upfront and no risk in finding out where you stand.
Call 1800 952 898 for a free claim check. No win, no fee, no upfront costs.
“Working with Esther has been an absolute blessing during an incredibly difficult time. Anyone who has ever had to navigate an insurance claim knows just how difficult, overwhelming, and anxiety-inducing the entire process can be. Before reaching out to Withstand Lawyers, I was constantly stressed and deeply overwhelmed by the system. The firm made the initial intake process incredibly smooth, and they placed me in the hands of my lawyer, Esther. From that moment on, from the first conversation, I finally found my solid ground. Esther has completely transformed how I navigate this unfortunate situation. Because she handles my matter directly, I have a direct line of contact with her and never have to jump through hoops to get support. Esther’s presence alone has given me immense confidence in my claim. What sets her apart is her perfect balance of professional mastery and genuine empathy. As a client, having a lawyer who truly listens and supports you when your mind is filled with doubt is a massive relief. She doesn’t just manage a file — she consistently protects her client’s peace of mind. Her recommendations are always highly logical, realistic, and clear-cut. She cuts through the legal confusion and tells you exactly where you stand, which is exactly what you need during the hardest times of your life. I feel incredibly lucky to have Esther and her team at Withstand Lawyers by my side. For anyone out there facing a difficult time with an insurer and looking for a legal advocate who offers absolute clarity, strength, and compassion — I cannot recommend Esther highly enough. She is a truly admirable professional who genuinely cares about the people she protects. Truly grateful!” “I have searched top lawyers (personal injury) in Sydney. I found Withstand Lawyers so I rang them up and asked I need lawyers that are nicer and more understanding despite what I am going through. They exceeded my expectations especially Issa, he always remind everyone to be more cautious when speaking to me and I really appreciate that. I am satisfied that my case (MVA) turned out to be successful. Withstand lawyers is more than 5 stars. Can’t recommend highly enough.” “I would like to express my deepest appreciation for the incredible support I’ve received over the past 4.5 years. My case has been long, complicated, and filled with challenges, but Issa and his team stood by me through every step with genuine care, professionalism, and dedication. Their compassion has meant just as much to me as their legal expertise. They didn’t just handle my case, they helped me through some of the most difficult years of my life. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone who needs genuine support, honesty, and a team that truly cares about your wellbeing.” “Thank you Withstand Lawyer for your exceptional work, professionalism and easy process for successfully assisting me with my TPD claim. I am thankful for your support. I highly recommend Withstand Lawyers and the services they provide.” “Had a very positive experience with Withstand Lawyers. The team was professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire process. They took the time to explain everything clearly, kept me informed at every stage, and responded promptly to my questions. Their attention to detail and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome gave me confidence from start to finish. I truly appreciate their dedication and excellent service, and I would highly recommend Withstand Lawyers to anyone looking for reliable and trustworthy service.” Every claim is handled by a personal injury lawyer with dedicated workers compensation and work injury experience. Issa Rabaya Director, Lawyer Founder and Director with 12 years' experience since his 2014 admission, previously at the largest litigation law firm in Australia. A personal injury lawyer for serious injuries, leading Withstand Lawyers' work across every claim type, with settlements reaching into the millions, including a $6.3 million motor vehicle accident result. Esther Ihn Senior Associate Senior Associate with over a decade of experience exclusively in personal injury claims since 2014, handling hundreds of matters across motor vehicle accidents, workers compensation, work injury damages and public liability. The team's go-to for serious-injury claims. Chenoa Ingram Lawyer · 4+ yrs experience Lawyer with 4+ years' hands-on experience in personal injury claims, built inside the firm before her 2026 admission, known for being organised and efficient in progressing clients' workers compensation, work injury damages, public liability and TPD claims. Lauren Bergan Lawyer · 4+ yrs experience4.9 ★ — 265+ Reviews
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