The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) plays a vital role in ensuring that NSW workers are protected under the workers compensation system. At the front of these efforts are SIRA Inspectors, who work diligently to ensure compliance and promote best practices among employers. ABILITY GROUP specialises in helping businesses in NSW and other states/territories navigate workers compensation and related matters.
What Does a SIRA Inspector Do?
SIRA Inspectors are responsible for ensuring that employers meet their obligations under workers compensation, injury management, and return-to-work requirements.
Their work involves:
- Workplace Visits – inspectors may visit workplaces for various reasons, such as reviewing workers compensation claims, addressing complaints, or targeting industries with higher risks
- Compliance Checks – during visits, inspectors verify that employers have the necessary workers compensation policies, injury registers, and return-to-work programs in place
- Providing Guidance – inspectors offer advice to help employers meet their obligations and improve their systems for managing workplace injuries and recovery
- Enforcement Actions – if an employer is found to be non-compliant, inspectors can issue improvement notices, penalty notices, or take further regulatory action
What to Expect During a Visit
When a SIRA Inspector visits a workplace, they will:
- Notify the employer of their arrival and present their identity card
- Review relevant documents, such as workers compensation policies and injury registers
- Ensure that injured workers are receiving appropriate support and compensation
- Provide recommendations or take enforcement actions if necessary
What SIRA Inspectors Don’t Do
It’s important to note that SIRA Inspectors do not mediate disputes, provide legal advice, or make decisions about claim liabilities or weekly payments.
Their focus is strictly on compliance and promoting best practices.
Why SIRA Inspectors Matter
By ensuring that employers adhere to their obligations, SIRA Inspectors help create safer workplaces and support injured workers in their recovery journey. Their work is essential in maintaining the integrity of the workers compensation system in New South Wales.
Need Help?
ABILITY GROUP specialises in helping businesses of all sizes navigate workers compensation and related matters. Contact our team to discuss your needs, be they RTW compliance, assistance with workplace injuries, workers compensation premiums, claims, wage declarations or other related matters.