Earlier today, ABILITY GROUP owners Julie and Marc met with NSW Minister Sophie Cotsis to discuss workplace safety. They shared insights, highlighted challenges, proposed improvements, and explored how ABILITY GROUP can further support workers compensation and WHS.
Key items discussed:
- ABILITY GROUP’s background, core services (provided to businesses and workers) and advocacy role
- Background of the industry since Workcover split into Safework, State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) and icare (nominal insurer)
- Minster identified efficiency drive to streamline icare operations
- Psychological claims – general discussion concerning challenges, frequency and related matters
- The Minster talked about increasing competition via Claims Service Providers (CSP) and asked for our feedback/recommendations
- Opportunities to improve policy and process
- icare’s re-focused approach and ensuring they have the right staff to drive outcomes in a more cost-effective manner
- Importance of injured workers being connected post-injury
Minister asked ABILITY GROUP to continue:
- Advocating and educating NSW businesses with an emphasis on small to medium employers
- Seek ways to help enable businesses to focus on running their business and employing workers
- identify ideas/ways to help businesses (to discuss again with the Minister at a later stage)
Minister Cotsis expressed her appreciation for the detailed insights provided by Julie and Marc on behalf of our clients, partners and workers. The Minister also reiterated the NSW Government’s commitment to improving workers compensation and safety.
Our meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties agreeing on the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration. Marc and Julie from ABILITY GROUP were optimistic about the potential future changes and improvements that could result from our initial meeting.
In advance of our next meeting with Minister Cotsis, we will continue to proactively seek input and questions.