How the Return to Work Process Works

Once an injury has been assessed, the next step is to create a structured return to work plan.
This plan sets out:

• Your current capacity for work
• Any medical restrictions or recommended adjustments
• The type of suitable duties that can be performed
• Review dates and progression goals

Your GP completes a Certificate of Capacity, which provides the medical details needed for your employer and insurer to arrange appropriate duties. The plan is regularly reviewed to ensure it stays aligned with your recovery.

The Purpose of Light Duties

Light duties are designed to help employees remain active while allowing injuries to heal safely.
They may include reduced hours, lower physical demands or alternate responsibilities that accommodate medical restrictions.

This staged approach helps you stay engaged with work, maintain social connection and improve recovery outcomes while avoiding further strain on the injury site.

Examples of Suitable Duties

Depending on your occupation and type of injury, examples of modified tasks may include:

• Administrative or computer-based work
• Tool preparation or inventory tasks
• Training or mentoring roles
• Light cleaning or equipment checks
• Reduced lifting or manual handling
• Gradual reintroduction to physical activity

Each plan is tailored to individual circumstances and medical recommendations.

Collaboration Between GP, Employer and Insurer

A successful return to work roadmap requires communication between everyone involved.

• The GP provides medical assessment and guidance on fitness for work.
• The employer identifies appropriate tasks or modified roles.
• The insurer ensures the plan meets WorkCover requirements and supports ongoing care.

This cooperative process ensures the return to work experience remains safe, achievable and compliant with NSW Workers Compensation guidelines.

Common Conditions That May Need Light Duties

Light duties are often used when recovering from injuries such as:

• Muscle strains or sprains
• Fractures or dislocations
• Back or neck injuries
• Shoulder or knee pain
• Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)
• Stress-related or psychological conditions

Returning to suitable duties under supervision helps to restore physical function and confidence while reducing the likelihood of chronic symptoms.

Psychological Health and Return to Work

For workers affected by stress, anxiety, bullying or PTSD, returning to work may require additional planning.
Your GP can work with mental health professionals and your workplace to develop a graduated plan that supports wellbeing and comfort.
This may include flexible scheduling, role modification or gradual exposure to certain work environments.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Transition

• Keep your GP updated on how you are coping with duties.
• Communicate openly with your employer about limitations or pain.
• Continue physiotherapy or rehabilitation as advised.
• Take regular breaks and follow safe work practices.
• Attend review appointments to monitor progress and adjust your plan if required.

Small adjustments and clear communication can make returning to work a positive step in your overall recovery.

Focusing on Long-Term Injury Prevention

Once full duties resume, it is important to focus on workplace injury prevention.
Your GP can provide recommendations on posture, safe lifting techniques and work injury prevention training programs to minimise risk.
Simple changes to ergonomics, movement and rest breaks can help prevent repetitive strain and maintain overall wellbeing at work.