From 1 July 2014, WorkCover laws in Victoria will become simpler with the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation (WIRC) Act 2013 becoming operational.
Additionally there are changes in the 2014/15 Premiums Orders that will be gazetted in June 2014. The numerous changes include…
In last night’s 2014 Australian federal budget, Treasurer Joe Hockey announced the retirement age is set to increase to 70 by 2035. Additionally a $10,000 incentive will be paid to businesses that employee workers over the age of 50. These announcements confirm the Australian workforce will continue to age. Business therefore will increasingly experience issues associated with an ageing workforce and unless they proactively take steps ensure workplace safety, minimise injuries and actively manage workers compensation claims, costs will increase.
We have previously covered the significant financial and people impacts psychological related workers compensation claims can have on a business. The new bullying laws create broader risks beyond workers compensation and management of employees by having the right systems, processes and access to experts, can save you money and effort. A leading insurer recently shared thoughts on this worrying industry trend and what steps can be actively taken to help minimise risks.
For a while now there has been a raging debate of the benefits of public versus privatisation of NSW Workers Compensation. NSW Premier, Mr Barry O’Farrell, has driven dramatic changes to NSW workers compensation over the last 18 months with businesses being the main beneficiaries. More recently, Prime Minster Tony Abbott, announced repeals allowing national businesses to self-insure via Comcare and consequently there is a renewed push for the privatisation of NSW Workers Compensation.
Insurers, insurance brokers and businesses alike could benefit from a push to privatise NSW workers compensation. But who would benefit most?
Tony Abbott today has announced red tape repeals aimed at delivering promised $1 billion-a-year cuts to red tape for business, charities, etc.
For businesses that operate across states, Tony Abbott today has announced red tape repeals that will encourage these businesses to enter the Comcare self-insurance workers compensation scheme. At the same time, the national workers compensation Comcare scheme will be tightened to prevent reckless workers claiming for injuries caused by their own misconduct. These are dramatic changes that will be hotly debated.
Work safety around all types of vehicles is always important as accidents occur and the consequences can be tragic. Despite the obvious traumatic consequences of serious or fatal accidents, business owners can face severe fines and it is important business owners take steps protect the safety of their workers.
Regrettably a recent accident on Wolli Creek Marsh Street site resulted in the a 30-year-old Sydney man losing his leg after attempting to move tyres under an excavator to avoid it damaging to the road. NSW WorkCover investigation is underway.