Pain and suffering costs

As the claimant or the vaccine recipient, you may be able to claim pain and suffering costs.

All claims for pain and suffering must include evidence to support at least one other claim category, such as lost income or out of pocket expenses. It can’t be claimed on its own.

Your claim must include sufficient evidence, such as a statement outlining your pre-vaccination circumstances and your ability to lead a normal life since receiving the vaccine.

What proof you need

Before you can claim, you need to get your doctor to complete a COVID-19 vaccine claims scheme medical report. You need this as proof when you submit the claim. We need your doctor’s responses to help us assess your claim.

You also need to provide these documents with your claim:

  • a statement addressing the nature of your pain and suffering since being vaccinated and why you’re now unable to lead a normal life
  • proof of any amounts you got or will get from third parties, like insurance companies.

The amount payable to you is based on the evidence you provide. Pain and suffering costs are determined by the COVID-19 vaccine claims scheme policy on the Department of Health and Aged Care website.

Page last updated: 3 April 2023.
QC 55962