SZEOW v MIMIA

The High Court of Australia heard an appeal in *Szeow v MIMIA*. The dispute concerned the appellant's claim for workers' compensation benefits under the *Workers' Compensation Act 1987* (NSW) following an injury sustained during employment. The respondent, the employer, had denied liability for the claim.

The central legal issue before the High Court was whether the appellant's injury, sustained during a period of employment that was not continuous, was compensable under the Act. Specifically, the court had to determine the proper interpretation of the statutory provisions relating to the date of injury and the employer's liability for injuries occurring during a period of employment that was not ongoing at the time of the claim.

The High Court considered the principles of statutory interpretation in the context of workers' compensation legislation. Their Honours examined the wording of the *Workers' Compensation Act 1987* (NSW) concerning the definition of "injury" and the circumstances under which an employer becomes liable. The court's reasoning focused on the legislative intent behind providing compensation for work-related injuries, even where employment relationships may have ceased or been interrupted. The court ultimately held that the appellant's injury was compensable.

The High Court allowed the appeal and remitted the matter to the appropriate tribunal for determination of the quantum of compensation.