The NSW Government has introduced major reforms to the Workers Compensation Scheme, reshaping how employers, brokers, and workers engage with icare. These changes are designed to improve sustainability, streamline processes, and enhance support for injured workers
(more…)
Occupational asthma is a work-related condition caused by exposure to harmful agents in the workplace. Employers are legally required to inform staff of hazards and ensure a safe environment. Studies show over 40% of workers encounter asthmagens, with farming, metal/wood, and food preparation industries most at risk. Businesses can reduce exposure through preventive measures and safer practices.
(more…)
Irrespective of the size of your business or industry you work in, workplace risks exist. Businesses that adopt a proactive risk management approach will typically minimise workplace risks, injuries and claims. Regrettably accidents do occur and in tragic situations the death of a worker has impacts beyond the obvious. Fatalities in the workplace not only affect the immediate family, they also cause distress to colleagues, employers and friends. No worker nor their family should face the risk of not coming home from work. We promote it is essential all Australian workplaces take every precaution to ensure their employees return home safe at the end of every day. So what are Australia’s most dangerous industries and the common cause of fatalities?
(more…)
The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) is the NSW government organisation responsible for regulating and administering the NSW workers' compensation system. On 10 July 2016, SIRA undertook several information sessions to introduce the SIRA “Guidelines for Claiming Worker’s Compensation”. These new SIRA guidelines will come into effect from 1 August 2016 and include such items as removing the need for the injured worker’s DOB, changes to claim decisions, removal of pre-approval for certain items and more.
(more…)
Many ask if workplace rehabilitation really works. When managed professionally, it speeds return to work, reduces business impacts, and supports safe, sustainable recovery. At HEALTH ABILITY, accredited allied health providers deliver workplace rehab with a 100% RTW rate, helping NSW businesses access free services for injured workers
(more…)
In the last 12 months, the NSW workers compensation industry has experienced dramatic change. As we approach 30 June 2016, it should be relieving for businesses to know that for there are no changes for workers compensation WorkCover Industry Classification (WIC) rates. As 2016/17 rates for NSW Workers Compensation apply to all renewals that fall due at 4pm on 30th June 2016, businesses and brokers will now be receiving renewal notices for these policies without fear of rate driven increases.
For large employers, icare however announced changes to the Retro Paid Loss (RPL) model by introducing Loss Prevention & Recovery (LPR) scheme as the replacement. LPR is progressively moving closer to providing pricing similar to that of insurers in privately underwritten schemes. This is an important change for large business.
(more…)