If you’re an employer in New South Wales, understanding the role of SIRA Inspectors isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. These regulatory officers from the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) are tasked with ensuring your business complies with workers compensation laws and return-to-work (RTW) obligations.
Why SIRA Inspectors Matter to Your Business
SIRA Inspectors have the authority to:
- Audit your workers compensation policies
- Review injury management procedures
- Ensure RTW programs are active and effective
- Issue penalties or improvement notices for non-compliance
If your business isn’t prepared, a visit from a SIRA Inspector could lead to costly fines, or worse, reputational damage.
What Happens During an Inspection?
During a workplace visit, SIRA Inspectors typically:
- Examine injury registers and compensation documentation
- Interview staff involved in injury management
- Assess the effectiveness of your RTW program
- Provide feedback or issue formal compliance notices
Common Compliance Pitfalls
Many businesses fall short in areas like:
- Failing to maintain an injury register
- Not having a documented RTW program
- Misreporting wage declarations
- Delayed or inaccurate claims processing
These issues can trigger enforcement actions, but they’re avoidable with the right support.
- Notify the employer of their arrival and present their identity card
- Review relevant documents, such as workers compensation policies and injury registers
- Ensure that injured workers are receiving appropriate support and compensation
- Provide recommendations or take enforcement actions if necessary
What SIRA Inspectors Don’t Do
It’s important to note that SIRA Inspectors:
- Do not mediate disputes.
- Do not offer legal advice.
- Do not decide on claim liabilities or weekly payments.
Their focus is strictly on compliance and best practices.
Why SIRA Inspectors Matter
By enforcing standards and offering guidance, SIRA Inspectors help create safer workplaces and ensure injured workers are treated fairly. Their work protects the integrity of the workers’ compensation system, and your business reputation.
How ABILITY GROUP Can Help
Navigating workers compensation and RTW compliance can be complex. That’s where ABILITY GROUP comes in. We specialize in:
- RTW program development
- Injury management support
- Workers compensation premium reviews
- Wage declarations and claims assistance
Whether you’re preparing for a SIRA inspection or need help improving your systems, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to strengthen your compliance and workplace safety? Contact ABILITY GROUP today to speak with our experts.
Sources: SIRA
Title: SIRA 2025 Strategy – SIRA – sira.nsw.gov.au
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