Understanding QLD Workers Compensation
Clients and brokers often ask us about workers compensation in Queensland and being a Government run scheme there are important differences. Some of the key differences include Accident Insurance is specific and compulsory cover for employees whereas the optional Workplace Personal Injury Insurance will cover those not deemed eligible under the Accident Insurance. In Queensland, the scheme is operated entirely by the state. The Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (the Act) states that employers must insure their workers with WorkCover Queensland under an accident insurance policy within five days of commencing employment. However, directors, partners of a partnership, sole traders and trustees are excluded from coverage as they are not considered workers. There is no threshold that businesses must reach before insuring in Queensland and businesses cannot pay for any of their own claim costs in Queensland.
We are excited to welcome Tania to ABILITY GROUP. After 4 years as a clinical physiotherapist, Tania joins HEALTH ABILITY as a specialist rehabilitation consultant. With expertise in assessing and treating a variety of injuries, impairments and conditions, Tania’s professional and enthusiastic approach will assist in accelerating the return to work of injured workers following a workplace injury.
A decision made by Workers Compensation Commission Deputy President O’Grady in Sabanayagam v St George Bank Ltd [2016] on 21 January 2016 has resulted in important changes for NSW businesses. Effective immediately, any decision to cease a workers’ weekly payments of compensation need to be communicated via a Work Capacity Decision (WCD).
8+ million Australians go to work each day with many in manual or sedentary workplaces. Mounting evidence supports onsite physio as a strategy to minimise workplace injuries. With an average of 1/3 of an individual’s life spent at work, it is becoming vital for businesses to adopt measures to prevent, manage and educate employees regarding their health. Using a physio in the workplace is a preventative strategy for businesses wanting to minimise costs, reduce workers compensation claims and more.
Andrea joined ABILITY GROUP in September 2015 as our Office Manager. Supporting our growing businesses keeps Andrea very busy and many of our clients and partners would have either spoken with Andrea, met her via email or in person.