I work as a registered nurse for NSW Health, and I have been injured at work. I am receiving workers compensation payments and working reduced hours at work while recover. Can I access my sick leave to top up the difference between my compensation payments, and my normal fortnightly wage?

Yes, you have a right to access your sick leave to top up your pay but only to the base rate. You can always request to use your sick leave to top up to a higher rate, but your employer is not required to grant this.

Additionally, you may take annual leave or long service leave while on workers compensation and receive the workers compensation benefits and payment for the leave simultaneously.

In the public health system, there is an option to take long service leave at half pay if requested by the employee.

If your employer refuses your application, please contact NSWNMA for advice at gensec@nswnma.asn.au