If a worker is left with a permanent impairment as a result of a work related injury or illness, there is a provision under the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act for a lump sum payment to be paid in respect of that permanent impairment.
Payment to the worker may be made to compensate for the permanent impairment once the injury or illness has stabilised. This payment does not affect the workers rights to weekly compensation benefits, medical or rehabilitation expenses.
If a worker believes that they have a permanent impairment, they may apply to their employer's insurance company or their own doctor for an assessment of that impairment. If the worker arranges his or her own assessment, the assessment must be sent to the employer's insurer.
If a worker or the insurer is dissatisfied with the assessed level of permanent impairment, either may apply to NT WorkSafe for a reassessment. Such applications must be in writing. NT WorkSafe must receive an application for reassessment within 28 days of the insurer or worker being notified of the initial assessment.