Women's Experience in the Workers' Compensation System

Introduction: Gender differences is a question of major importance within workers’ compensation given the increased role of women in the workforce over the past several decades. This article reviews literature relating to women's experiences following work injury. Methods: An Australian study is used as background to exploring the broad issue of the question of gender equity in workers’ compensation. In doing so it takes account of historical, legal and medical issues. Results: Women's experience in the workers’ compensation system is different to that of men due to a range of factors. It is heavily influenced by the industrial environment in which they work. Women are paid less than men in many instances and work in gender-segregated circumstances, which often reduces their industrial bargaining power. Women also suffer different forms of injury and disease to men because of the different nature of their work. Conclusion: The Australian experience suggests that as a consequence of the combination of lesser industrial bargaining power, lower wages and differing forms of injury and disease women often receive less than men in compensation payments, struggle to obtain equity in the dispute resolution process and experience greater difficulties in returning to work following injury or disease.