An independent review of Queensland’s worker’s compensation scheme has found the scheme is performing well and does not require major reform.
Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said the review by Griffith University’s Professor David Peetz found the scheme is financially sound and provides fair treatment for both employers and injured workers. 
“With the scheme found to be running smoothly, there are no recommendations for major reform, but Professor Peetz has identified some opportunities to improve the process and experience for injured workers,” Ms Grace said.
“Professor Peetz also explored emerging trends such as the gig economy and the changing face of employment and workers’ compensation coverage for these workers.
“Written submissions were received from a broad range of stakeholders including trade unions, employer groups, legal representatives, medical and allied health associations and insurers.
Under the Workers; Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003, the Minister must ensure the scheme is reviewed at least once every five years. Under this year’s review, Professor Peetz has suggested extending worker’s compensation coverage to ensure workers in the gig economy are not disadvantaged.
Other suggestions include adopting principles of the national Best Practice Framework for the Management of Psychological Claims in the Australian Workers’ Compensation Sector, providing greater support to rehabilitation and return to work conditions at the workplace, and ensuring they are qualified and identifiable to insurers and the Regulator.
“As I recently announced, WorkCover Queensland is maintaining the average premium rate for the next financial year at $1.20 per $100 in wages paid.
“That means WorkCover is delivering the best possible return to work outcomes for more than 66,000 injured workers at the lowest cost for almost 160,000 Queensland employers and that makes it the best workers’ compensation provider in Australia.
“In addition to the low premium rates, Queensland businesses have saved more than $61 million in premium discounts with WorkCover Queensland, with these savings set to continue in the 2018-19 financial year.”
To read the report, click here.
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