Recent violent incidents across Australia have highlighted situations where members of the public step in to assist police before officers are able to fully intervene. In some cases, bystanders are injured while helping police make an arrest or prevent harm to others.
If you are injured while assisting police in Western Australia, you may be legally entitled to compensation. These claims are not symbolic or discretionary. They are assessed under a formal compensation framework and are managed as if they are a Workers’ Compensation claim.
Can You Claim Compensation for Injuries While Assisting Police?
Yes. If you suffer an injury while actively assisting police in the execution of their duties, you may have a valid compensation claim.
In Western Australia, these claims are made against the Minister for Police. While the circumstances differ from a standard workplace injury, the claim is assessed as if it is a Workers’ Compensation claim, and as if the Minister for Police is the employer, including medical evidence, wage loss, and permanent impairment.
Claims of this nature can be complex, particularly where liability involves a public authority. Early legal advice is important to ensure your claim is properly framed and supported.
Real Example: Compensation Claim After Assisting Police in Northbridge
Lian Hall Injury Law recently acted for a client who was injured while assisting police during an arrest in Northbridge.
Our client was out for the evening when he saw police chasing a suspect and calling for him to stop. As the suspect ran past, our client intervened, causing the suspect to fall and enabling police to complete the arrest. In the process, our client suffered a fractured leg.
We assisted our client to bring a compensation claim against the Minister for Police. The claim was assessed as if it were a Workers’ Compensation claim, taking into account medical evidence, time off work, and the impact of the injury.
This type of claim demonstrates that members of the public who are injured while assisting police are not left without legal recourse.
Do You Qualify for Compensation After Helping Police?
As a general guide, you may be eligible to claim compensation if the following apply:
You must have suffered a diagnosed injury
Compensation is only payable where a doctor or hospital has diagnosed an actual injury. You are not compensated simply for assisting police or acting as a good Samaritan.
The injury must be directly linked to assisting police
Your injury must have occurred as a direct result of helping police carry out their duties. Injuries unrelated to that assistance are not compensable.
The claim is assessed as a Workers’ Compensation claim
Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to claim:
- Lost wages, supported by medical certificates and income evidence
- Medical and treatment expenses, supported by invoices and receipts
- Compensation for permanent impairment, supported by a formal assessment
Strict time limits apply
In most cases, you must commence your claim within three years of the date you were injured while assisting police.
Injured Helping Police? Speak With a WA Personal Injury Lawyer
Claims involving injuries sustained while assisting police are assessed differently from standard accident or public liability claims. They often involve government respondents, strict evidentiary requirements, and procedural rules that can affect your entitlement.
Obtaining advice early can help prevent delays, underpayment, or rejection of your claim.
Get Clear Advice About Your Compensation Options
If you were injured while assisting police in Western Australia, you may be entitled to compensation. Time limits apply, and evidence matters.
Lian Hall Injury Law advises clients across Perth on complex personal injury claims, including claims involving public authorities and compensation schemes.
