QLD Government suggests improvements for workers' compensation scheme

Industrial Relations Minister Cameron Dick said the review contained recommendations to make QLD system more stable and secure.

"The independent review has made 51 recommendations and the QLD Government wants to hear community views before considering them for implementation," Mr Dick said.

"This review was conducted as part of the workers' compensation reform package that was implemented earlier this year.

"It identifies further areas for improvement to make the scheme more transparent, more focused on preventing injury and with greater emphasis on the rehabilitation of injured workers.

The review was carried out by Robin Stewart-Crompton, the former chair of the national review into model workplace health and safety laws, and involved consultation with stakeholders.

Mr Dick said the review recommended that workers' compensation and work safety authorities - WorkCover, Q-Comp and Workplace Health and Safety Queensland - work more closely together to implement common activities and policies.

"If adopted, these recommendations will result in an improved flow of information to employers and employees," he said.

"More data will be made available on legal costs and charges, and a study will be done on the effects of legal advertising on workers' compensation claims.”

Public comment on the review closes on Friday 12 November 2010 and can be submitted at www.worksafe.qld.gov.au

Wednesday 20 October, 2010
Safe to Work