Return To Work SA recently announced changes to the South Australian workers compensation scheme. The changes we outlined last August are the most dramatic in 20 years and have resulted in the scheme no longer being in deficit. The far reaching changes will result in the majority of businesses experiencing premium reductions from 1 July 2015.
![Did You Know [Red]](http://abilitygroup.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Did-You-Know-Red.png)
Historically the decision to accrue (or the cheaper alternative not to accrue) leave entitlements for injured workers on workers compensation has been a grey area. The resulting uncertainty for many businesses is caused by differences between various legislation. A recent Federal Circuit Court case decision provides greater clarity on this at least for NSW.
Recruitment and workforce related decisions have always been key decisions for businesses. The continuing changes in local and global economies means these decisions become even more important. The ability to identify the right employees and subsequently keep them can avoid considerable costs, effort and frustration. So what are the long term employment trends in Australia? With the retirement age progressively being increased by the Australian government and greater use of temporary employees, the Australian workforce dynamics continue to evolve. One of Australia’s leading, and at times controversial, journalist recently covered this topic and we believe these trends are having and will continue to have impacts on workers compensation.
Businesses often seek ways to improve productivity and reduce absenteeism. What might surprise many is that a recent study found obese workers took 90% more sickies than normal weight employees. Research also show that Australian businesses with a successful work health program can experience up to 3 times higher productivity, lower sick leave and injuries, as well as better employee morale.
ABILITY GROUP was engaged by a client to manage a claim for a worker who had injured their knee. The prognosis involved surgery and a lengthy return to work process. Our intervention in managing this claim delivered $160,000 of workers compensation related savings.
Needless to say our client was extremely pleased they engaged our specialist Injury/Claim Management Service in intervening with this situation.