Trip and fall injury -Sydney Aust?

I'm currently in hospital as a result of a trip and fall on a broken footpath. I have a black eye, a badly sprained left ankle and multiple fractures to my right foot. I was scheduled for surgery but swelling and a likely poorer outcome for mobility means that surgery is to be delayed or hopefully avoided. I'd opt for a longer recovery time rather than surgical invention if that causes more problems. Due to the severity of my injuries and the fact that my right foot is now permanently "stuffed up" I am going to speak to a lawyer about making a claim. My $500 sunglasses were crushed and I need a wheelchair hire for 2 months (can't use crutches as both feet are non functioning). I'm an at home mum but it's going to be a nightmare trying to run a household and kids from a wheelchair. Anyhow, how does it work with a lawyer? How much do they cost? I realize that in the US people might get a million dollars but here in Sydney is wanting a few thousand to offset costs and pain ok? Anyone had a bad fall and sued their council? The footpath was seriously in bad repair and not one I usually use hence being caught out and trip. I tripped over a jutting up piece and rolled my ankle but as I tried to regain my balance I fell into a hole (missing part of footpath) and then fell face first into the road. Not happy.