Tips on how to give a statement < Back

If you decide to provide a statement to an investigator without legal assistance, it is important to follow a number of simple rules.

  • Check to see that investigator is properly authorised by WorkSafe. Sometimes a third-party is involved in causing an injury and their insurance company may seek a statement. Providing a statement in these circumstances will not be in your best interests.

  • Do not give a statement if you are in a highly emotional state or while taking medication that affects your memory or state of mind
  • If you are not fluent in English do not provide a statement without an independent interpreter.

  • You should ensure that a draft of statement will be provided to you for you to sign and consider before it is sent to WorkCover. You should be aware that signing a statement is not necessary for it to have an effect. An unsigned statement can be used with the same effect as a signed statement. This is simply done by calling the investigator to give evidence about the preparation of the unsigned statement.

  • The statement provided should be as accurate as possible without going into unnecessary or excessive detail. If your statement relates to a stress claim, think very carefully about how the issues are relevant to the claim, before you meet with the investigator. Where possible keep the statements unemotional and matter of fact. Avoid making unnecessary accusations against others. If your claim relates to a stress condition, ensure that you read the information on this website about stress claims in order to ensure that the basis of your claim is properly detailed.

  • If you are provided with a draft statement which is not accurate, make written amendments and keep a copy of your corrections for your own records.
If you provide a statement always request a final copy for your records.


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