Shoulder injuries may seem like minor workplace setbacks but they can lead to long-term pain, restricted mobility, time off work, and even permanent impairment. What many workers don’t realise is that Australian workplace safety laws offer more protection than you think but those protections are often ignored, poorly implemented, or misunderstood.
In this guide, we decode the laws designed to prevent shoulder injuries at work, reveal 5 legal rights most workers overlook, and expose the employer responsibilities that could make or break your WorkCover claim.
Employers Have a Legal Duty to Prevent Shoulder Injuries
Let’s start with the basics. Under Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws, employers in Australia are legally obligated to provide a safe work environment. This includes:
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Identifying and assessing risks (including repetitive tasks, heavy lifting, and awkward postures)
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Implementing control measures (like ergonomic equipment, job rotation, or mechanical aids)
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Providing proper training on manual handling and posture techniques
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Regularly reviewing safety protocols
If your employer fails to meet these obligations and you suffer a shoulder injury as a result, they may be held legally liable and you may be eligible for compensation under WorkCover or a common law claim.
You Have the Right to Safe Equipment and Ergonomic Support
Whether you’re lifting stock in a warehouse, typing at a desk, or working on a building site, your employer must provide fit-for-purpose equipment. That includes:
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Adjustable chairs and desks
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Tools that reduce overhead or repetitive arm use
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Machinery that minimises heavy lifting
Workplaces that cut corners on ergonomics put their staff at serious risk, not only of shoulder injuries but also of chronic musculoskeletal disorders.
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain at work, ask for a workstation assessment. If your employer refuses, it could be a breach of WHS laws and a red flag if an injury occurs.
You Can Refuse Unsafe Work
How to prevent shoulder injuries when most workers don’t realise they have the legal right to stop or refuse work that they believe is unsafe, without fear of punishment. This is protected under WHS legislation in every state and territory.
If a task puts excessive strain on your shoulders or lacks proper safety measures, such as adequate training or lifting support you have the right to:
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Stop the task
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Notify your supervisor or WHS representative
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Request a safer alternative
Important: Employers cannot legally dismiss or discipline you for refusing dangerous work. If they do, you may have grounds for legal action.
You’re Entitled to Report Early Warning Signs, Not Just Injuries
Too many shoulder injuries escalate because workers don’t report symptoms early. But you don’t need to be “broken” to be protected. You can and should report:
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Pain during or after lifting
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Discomfort from repetitive overhead work
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Tingling, weakness, or reduced mobility
Under WorkCover guidelines, early reporting is encouraged and can be the foundation of a strong compensation claim if your condition worsens.
If your employer dismisses your complaints or fails to investigate, that negligence could become a key factor in your claim later on.
You May Be Eligible for Compensation, Even Without a Single Incident
One of the most misunderstood parts of workplace injury law is this:
You don’t need a dramatic accident to make a claim.
Overuse and gradual-onset shoulder injuries, such as bursitis, rotator cuff tears, or frozen shoulder, can all be covered under WorkCover if your job significantly contributed to the condition.
Common examples include:
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Warehouse workers doing repetitive lifting
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Nurses moving patients
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Office workers using poorly set up workstations
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Construction workers doing frequent overhead tasks
If you can show that your work contributed to or aggravated the injury, you may be entitled to:
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Weekly income support
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Medical and rehabilitation expenses
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Lump sum payments for permanent impairment
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Legal damages (in cases of employer negligence)
The truth is, most shoulder injuries at work are avoidable, but only when both workers and employers understand their legal responsibilities. If you’re dealing with shoulder strain, pain, or injury, don’t ignore it. You could be protected by workplace laws, and your employer may owe you more than just sympathy.
Here’s what you can do now:
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Request an ergonomic assessment of your workstation or tasks
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Report symptoms early and in writing
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Refuse unsafe or unassisted tasks that risk injury
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Keep records of all incidents and communication
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Speak to a personal injury lawyer about your rights
Your shoulders carry enough weight. Don’t let ignorance of the law make it worse.