A Greek resident and former Melbourne worker has finally caught a break from bad luck, having recently received lump sum compensation for a workplace injury he endured 10 years ago, despite the fact that he is now living overseas.
The former worker – whose name cannot be revealed for legal reasons – came to Australia on a visa about a decade ago, and worked part-time while undertaking English lessons.
In a cruel twist of fate, dreams were shattered for this man following an accident which jeopardised his professional future and even his health.
While working as a welder for a Melbourne company, he was struck by a heavy metal object and required surgery on his leg. He lodged a WorkCover claim and attempted to return to work, but ultimately the seriousness of the injury meant he had to stop working altogether.
Eventually, he returned to Greece, but the pain and restrictions in his lower limbs and hips persisted, prompting him to seek help from the Greek division of a Melbourne-based law firm to find out if he had a claim.
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Speaking about the specifics of the case, Deidre Petrakis, associate at Adviceline Injury Lawyers, the firm representing the worker, explained that a ‘no-fault’ claim was made, meaning that the employer did not have to be at fault for the worker’s injury.
“As part of the claim our client had to prove that he was going to be permanently impaired because of his injury.
“Adviceline arranged for an examination by a specialist doctor in Greece who was trained in evaluating permanent injuries.
“We can confirm he has now been awarded a significant lump sum payment,” Ms Petrakis said.
Meanwhile, the former worker, assisted by his lawyers, was able to also claim a Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance benefit.
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