Injured on Public or Private Property?
If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property — whether public or private — due to unsafe conditions or negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.
What is a Public Liability Claim?
Public liability claims cover injuries caused by unsafe conditions on public or private property. Under Queensland law, property owners, landlords, businesses, and local councils all have a duty of care to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors.
If they fail to meet that responsibility and you are injured as a result, you may be entitled to claim compensation for the harm you’ve suffered.
At AX Compensation Lawyers, we can assess your situation, explain your legal rights, and guide you through every step of the claims process.
The Support You Need
We believe everyone should have access to quality legal help, regardless of finances. That’s why we offer a No Win, No Fee arrangement: you won’t pay our legal fees unless we secure compensation on your behalf.
Where Can Public or Private Property Injuries Happen?
Public liability claims can arise from injuries that occur on public or private property where someone else is responsible for maintaining safety. This includes spaces owned or managed by councils, businesses, landlords, or private individuals.
Understanding who was responsible for maintaining the space is key to determining whether you have a valid public liability claim.
Common locations include:
Public liability claims can arise from injuries that occur on public or private property where someone else is responsible for maintaining safety. This includes spaces owned or managed by councils, businesses, landlords, or private individuals.
Understanding who was responsible for maintaining the space is key to determining whether you have a valid public liability claim.
Footpaths, parks, and playgrounds
Shopping centres and supermarkets
Restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs
Private homes and rental
Public transport areas
Gyms and sports venues
Event spaces, and public pools
Do I Have a Public Liability Claim?
To succeed in a public liability claim, you’ll need to prove that the person or organisation responsible for the property failed to take reasonable steps to prevent your injury. This applies to both public and private spaces.
If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, our legal team can assess your case during a free initial consultation. You may have a valid claim if:
To succeed in a public liability claim, you’ll need to prove that the person or organisation responsible for the property failed to take reasonable steps to prevent your injury. This applies to both public and private spaces.
If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, our legal team can assess your case during a free initial consultation. You may have a valid claim if:
A duty of care existed
The owner, occupier, or managing authority had a legal obligation to keep the premises safe.
That duty was breached
They failed to fix or warn about a hazard in a reasonable timeframe.
You were injured as a result
The breach directly caused your injury.
You suffered loss or damage
Such as medical expenses, lost income, or pain and suffering.
What Compensation Can I Claim for an Injury in a Public or Private Place?
If you’ve suffered an injury on public or private property, you may be entitled to financial compensation to support your recovery and safeguard your future. The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injuries and how they impact your daily life and ability to work. Our team can help you understand your full entitlements under Queensland public liability law.
You may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical Expenses
Covering hospital treatment, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
Loss of Income
Compensation for wages lost due to time off work, as well as future loss of earnings if your injury affects your ability to work.
Pain and Suffering
Recognising the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries.
Care and Rehabilitation Support
Including physiotherapy, in-home assistance, psychological support, and any accessibility modifications required for daily living.
How AX Compensation Lawyers Can Help
Obligation Free Consultation
We offer an obligation free consultation to assess your case and explain your legal options. During this initial conversation, we’ll review the circumstances of your injury and advise whether you may have a valid public liability compensation claim.
We will also clearly outline how our legal costs work under our No Win, No Fee arrangement. This includes explaining how we cover upfront disbursements, such as the costs of medical reports and expert assessments, so you can proceed with your claim without financial pressure.
Lodging the Claim
Once we confirm that you have a valid public liability claim, we take care of the entire lodgement process on your behalf. This includes:
- Preparing and submitting all required legal documents
- Notifying the property owner, occupier, or their insurer
- Ensuring all steps are completed in line with Queensland public liability law
Whether your injury occurred on public or private property, our team ensures your compensation claim is properly lodged and compliant with all legal requirements — so you can focus on your recovery.
Gathering Evidence
To build a strong public liability compensation claim, it’s essential to provide clear evidence that your injury was caused by unsafe conditions or negligence on public or private property. We help you gather and prepare the documentation needed to support your case under Queensland public liability law.
This may include:
- Incident reports and witness statements
- Photographic evidence of the hazard or location
- Medical records confirming the nature and extent of your injuries
- Expert assessments demonstrating how the property was unsafe or not properly maintained
While some documents may need to come from you, we guide you through every step to ensure your public liability claim is supported by the strongest possible evidence.
Medical Assessments
We arrange independent medical assessments where needed to support your case. These expert reports help determine:
- The severity of your injuries
- Your capacity to return to work or daily activities
- What treatment or ongoing care you may require
Negotiation & Settlement
Most public liability cases are resolved without the need to go to court. Our lawyers negotiate directly with insurers or the responsible parties to secure a fair settlement that reflects your injury and losses.
If a fair outcome cannot be reached through negotiation, we are fully prepared to represent you in court.
Choose Your Consultations
We understand that after an injury, it’s not always easy — or even possible — to attend a legal consultation in person. That’s why we offer flexible options to ensure you can get the support you need in a way that suits your circumstances. Whether you’re recovering at home or prefer to speak remotely, we’re here to help you take the next step
At Our Office
Video Conferencing
Home Visit
Check If You Qualify
Not sure if you qualify for compensation? Our free claim check offers a quick, no-obligation assessment—whether it’s a workplace injury (WorkCover), a motor vehicle incident (CTP), or a TPD claim. We’ll explain your options and guide you on the next steps—no strings attached.
Frequently Asked Questions About Public Liability Claims
Who is responsible if I’m injured on someone else’s private property — the owner or their insurer?
If you’re injured on private property due to unsafe conditions or negligence, the legal responsibility typically falls on the property owner or occupier, as they are required to maintain a safe environment. However, the financial liability — meaning who actually pays the compensation — is usually covered by their insurance, not the individual themselves (unless they are uninsured).
Types of insurance that may respond include:
- Home and Contents Insurance (with Public Liability Coverage):
Common among homeowners, this insurance typically includes cover for injuries that happen on their property.
- Landlord Insurance:
For rental properties, this policy often includes public liability protection for injuries suffered by tenants or visitors due to property defects or maintenance failures.
- Business Liability Insurance:
If the property operates as a business (e.g. a bed and breakfast or Airbnb), this type of policy may respond either alongside or in place of standard homeowner cover.
While public liability insurance is not mandatory for all businesses in Queensland, it is strongly recommended. Some industries, such as trades requiring licensing, must hold public liability cover as a condition of operation.
If you’re unsure who is legally or financially responsible for your injury, it’s best to speak with a personal injury lawyer who specialises in public liability claims. At AX Compensation Lawyers, we can assess your situation, advise who the claim should be made against, and ensure your rights and entitlements are protected under Queensland law.
Can I make a public liability claim if I was partly at fault for the injury?
Yes. You may still be entitled to compensation under Queensland public liability law, even if you were partially at fault for your injury.
In these cases, your compensation may be reduced to reflect your level of responsibility, a legal concept known as contributory negligence. Our team can help assess how this may affect your entitlement to compensation for injury on public or private property.
How long do I have to make a public liability claim in Queensland?
There are strict time limits for making a public liability claim in Queensland. If you’ve suffered an injury on public or private property, it’s important to act quickly to protect your right to compensation.
Under the Personal Injuries Proceedings Act 2002 (Qld), you must provide formal notification of your claim within nine months of the incident, or within one month of instructing a lawyer — whichever is earlier. A late notice may still be accepted, but only if there is a reasonable excuse for the delay.
Importantly, there is also a three-year limitation period to formally commence your public liability claim in court. Extensions are rarely granted, and being unaware of the deadline is not considered a valid excuse.
To avoid missing any critical deadlines, it’s best to get legal advice as early as possible. At AX Compensation Lawyers, we can guide you through each step and ensure your claim is lodged in time.
Do I need a lawyer to lodge a public liability injury claim?
While it’s possible to lodge a public liability compensation claim on your own, these matters are often complex and involve strict timeframes, legal paperwork, and negotiations with insurers. Engaging a lawyer who specialises in public liability claims in Queensland can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome.
At AX Compensation Lawyers, we ensure your claim is thoroughly prepared, submitted on time, and supported by the right evidence.
Will I have to go to court if I make a public liability claim?
Most public liability claims are resolved through negotiation with the responsible party’s insurer, without the need to go to court. However, if a fair settlement can’t be reached, your lawyer may recommend proceeding to court to pursue the compensation you’re entitled to.
How long does a public liability compensation claim take?
The timeframe for a public liability compensation claim in Queensland can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the severity of your injuries. Some straightforward claims may settle within 12 months, while more serious cases, especially those requiring ongoing medical treatment, can take 2 to 3 years to resolve.
The process can also be affected by how quickly medical evidence is available and whether liability is disputed. After reviewing your situation, our team can give you a clearer idea of how long your injury claim on public or private property is likely to take.
Ready to Discuss Your Claim?
At AX Compensation Lawyers, we provide compassionate support and expert legal representation to individuals injured in accidents across Queensland. Our dedicated team is committed to helping clients navigate the personal injury claims process with confidence and peace of mind.
