Unofficial industry views indicate the recent NSW workers compensation legislation and premium formula changes resulted in 75% of medium to large businesses expecting higher 2015/16 Renewal Premiums. ABILITY GROUP has already won NSW WorkCover appeals on behalf of our clients reducing premiums payable. Higher renewal & need help?
The recent NSW workers compensation changes have caused challenges across the industry since taking effect on 30 June 2015. Medium to large businesses with premiums over $30,000 are yet to receive their official 2015/16 Premium Renewals calculated under the new legislated formula. Unofficial data suggests 75% of businesses will see higher premiums. Most businesses are yet to therefore understand if their 2015/16 Renewal Premium will increase or decrease due to the numerous changes. Under the new formula, the key drivers of renewal premium changes will include:
ABILITY GROUP has already helped numerous clients with higher 2015/16 Renewal Premiums.
In the new scheme changes, NSW WorkCover introduced a provision for a premium capping. Although not widely known, relevant businesses are able to apply for certain capping. Developing a business case to support the application, ABILITY GROUP can assist clients apply for this capping free of charge with fees payable only if we are able to secure a greater savings than those identified in the new legislation.
Services issues can be a source of frustration for certain businesses when it comes to insurance. In workers compensation service responsiveness is key in minimising claim costs and resulting impacts to premiums. Small and medium businesses not receiving appropriate service can expect delays that can increase workers compensation related costs. Large businesses aren’t immune with service and support varying greatly between insurers and claims managers. Changing claims managers and unresponsiveness can be things of the past. These service issue were highlighted recently by the NSW Minister of Finance who is seeking to change the revolving door insurer’s face with staff. There is also a short video highlighting some of the common issues. When ABILITY GROUP are engaged, we work with our dedicated services teams to drive outcomes
Social media is embedded throughout society as people throughout the day are connecting to others via an mediums like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and others. If work related incidents are discussed or an employee is bullied, the employer liability is considered. Social media policies are consequently becoming increasingly important for all businesses as connections to workers compensation grow.
A NSW micro employer is a business with 5 or less employees and a basic premium tariff <$30,000. A micro employer with an injured worker may experience financial difficulties with return to work (RTW) of an injured employee. WorkCover acknowledges for many micro employers there is a financial burden they can’t afford or sustain. WorkCover is now extending special RTW assistance to these businesses.