icare confirmed today that NSW workers compensation premiums will increase by the maximum allowed. This represents an average of 8% as previously communicated. Businesses already facing higher costs will be required to manage workplace injuries, workers compensation claims and related matters much more closely or face significantly higher premiums in subsequent years.
(more…)
With ongoing pressure across all Australian jurisdictions, Victoria’s WorkCover scheme has recently been updated under the Scheme Modernisation Act, effective from 31 March 2024. The key changes include new eligibility criteria for mental injury claims, an additional requirement for receiving weekly payments beyond 130 weeks as well as other changes.
(more…)
The Workers Compensation and Injury Management Bill 2023 is a complete rewrite of the Western Australian workers compensation legislation. Modernising WA’s Workers Compensation Laws via the new Act is the culmination of an extensive review and consultation process. The commencement date for the new Act is 1 July 2024.
(more…)
The approach an employer adopts when responding to worker injuries is crucial in supporting your worker in recovering from a workplace injury. Employers’ efforts can either positively or negatively impact return-to-work outcomes including the time it takes for your worker to recover. Every workplace injury has unique circumstances and the ability of an employer to adjust their approach to each work/injury is also important.
(more…)
Based on discussions with clients, the importance of early notification is not as widely known as expected. With workplace injuries, early notification, contact and support typically result in better health and recovery outcomes. Evidence shows employees are more likely to stay at or return to work when potential risks are identified, their individual needs are assessed, and treatment and/or rehabilitation services begin as soon as possible.
(more…)
In the context of workers’ compensation, a pre-existing condition refers to a medical condition or injury that an employee had prior to their employment or that existed before a workplace incident occurred. These conditions can include chronic illnesses, prior injuries, or other health issues that the worker had before the workplace incident.
(more…)