Home Assistance

Recovering from a workplace injury doesn’t just affect your job—it can also impact your ability to manage everyday activities at home. For many injured workers, simple tasks like cleaning, cooking, or gardening can become difficult or even unsafe. That’s why home assistance is an important part of the Workcover system in New South Wales.

In this article, we’ll explain what home assistance is, who can access it, and how it works under Workcover.

What is Home Assistance?

Home assistance (sometimes called domestic assistance) is support provided to an injured worker who, because of their work-related injury, cannot manage certain household tasks safely or independently.

The goal of home assistance is not to provide luxury or convenience—it’s to help the injured worker maintain daily living standards while focusing on recovery and return to work.

What Types of Assistance Are Covered?

The type and level of home assistance depend on the injury and the worker’s needs. Common examples include:

• Cleaning – vacuuming, mopping, dusting, laundry, and other general housework.

• Meal Preparation – cooking or assistance with preparing meals.

• Shopping – help with groceries or essential household supplies.

• Gardening / Yard Maintenance – mowing, trimming, or basic outdoor maintenance (where medically justified).

  
  

Home assistance usually does not cover services the worker didn’t perform before the injury (e.g., if they never did gardening, it won’t be added now).

Who Decides if You Qualify for Home Assistance?

Eligibility for home assistance is determined based on medical evidence and functional assessments. Key steps include:

1. Medical Certificate – Your treating doctor notes that your injury prevents you from doing certain tasks.

2. Occupational Therapist (OT) Assessment – An OT may visit your home to assess what help you need and for how long.

3. Insurer Approval – The insurer reviews the recommendations and approves (or declines) the level of assistance.

   
   

The assistance is generally reviewed periodically, as your condition may improve and reduce the need for support.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Assistance

• Short-Term Assistance – Often provided immediately after injury, surgery, or hospitalisation (e.g., a few weeks of cleaning support).

• Long-Term Assistance – May be approved for serious or permanent injuries where ongoing help is required.

  
  

Common Questions

1. Do I have to pay for it? No, approved home assistance is paid by the Workcover insurer.

2. Can my family provide the assistance? In most cases, Workcover funds professional services. Family members are not usually paid unless there are exceptional circumstances.

3. How many hours can I get? It varies—some workers receive a few hours a week, while others may qualify for more, depending on injury severity and medical evidence.

Why Home Assistance Matters

Home assistance is not just about convenience—it’s about protecting injured workers from further harm and supporting recovery. By easing the burden of household tasks, workers can focus on treatment, rehabilitation, and returning to work as safely and quickly as possible.

Key Takeaway

If your workplace injury has left you unable to manage essential household tasks, you may be entitled to home assistance under Workcover NSW. Speak with your treating doctor and insurer about whether an assessment is appropriate. Getting the right support at home can make a big difference in your recovery journey.