Volunteers are the backbone of many community events and organisations, from local sports teams and charities to our beloved surf lifesaving clubs. In Queensland, over 9,000 active surf lifesavers patrol our beaches every weekend, ensuring the safety of swimmers and beachgoers. During the past year alone, Queensland’s surf lifesavers contributed over 356,662 hours of their time, performing an incredible 8,857 rescues as outlined in the 2024 National Coastal Safety Report. Their efforts are vital, especially during the busy summer months, when beach attendance peaks.
However, what happens if a volunteer is injured while performing their duties? The good news is that volunteers in Queensland are entitled to certain protections and benefits under the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act and the Personal Injuries Proceedings Act.
What Compensation Is Available to Volunteers?
If a volunteer sustains an injury while undertaking tasks for an organisation, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation. A workers compensation claim, even for a volunteer would allow the injured person to be entitled to claim for:
1. Rehabilitation Costs – Assistance with medical treatment and recovery.
2. Weekly Benefits – Compensation for lost income if the injury prevents them from performing their regular “day job.” For example, a volunteer surf lifesaver injured during an ocean rescue may qualify for compensation to cover medical expenses and income lost due to their inability to work.
However, volunteers do not have the same rights as employees when it comes to pursuing claims for damages under workers’ compensation. Due to the workers being a volunteer, this can mean that, while they can access support for medical and financial losses, they may encounter difficulties showing that the organisation held them a duty of care, and therefore, negligence claims under the workers’ compensation scheme for injuries sustained while volunteering may be more challenging.
What About Common Law Claims?
If a volunteer’s injury is caused by the negligence of a third party—such as an unsafe premise or a poorly maintained piece of equipment—they may still be entitled to seek compensation under the Personal Injuries Proceedings Act 2002. For example, if a surf lifesaver was injured due to a defective vehicle or equipment provided by an event organiser, they might have grounds to make a negligence claim against that third party. This highlights the importance of ensuring that organisations hosting events or providing resources take every reasonable precaution to maintain safety standards.
The Responsibilities of Organisations
While volunteers are expected to take reasonable care for their own safety, organisations have a legal obligation to provide a safe environment. This includes: Identifying and mitigating foreseeable risks, providing adequate training and equipment, and ensuring a reasonable standard of care to avoid exposing volunteers to unnecessary harm. Failing to meet these responsibilities could result in an organisation being held liable if a volunteer is injured while performing their duties.
Your Rights When Injured While Volunteering in Queensland
Our volunteers play a critical role in the community, from safeguarding our beaches to supporting countless local initiatives. It is essential that their contribution is supported with proper protections and a focus on safety. If you or someone you know has been injured while volunteering, understanding your rights is vital. Seeking advice from an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you explore your entitlements and ensure that you are supported throughout your recovery. Volunteers deserve the same care and consideration they so generously provide to others.
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