Understanding Statutory Reviews
What's Happening Every Five Years?
The Queensland workers' compensation scheme undergoes a comprehensive review every five years, as mandated by the Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003.
Insights from the 2023 Review
Key Findings and Your Future
In the latest 2023 review, the Queensland Government has released the final report, marking the third evaluation of the scheme. The review highlights the scheme's overall good performance and outlines critical opportunities for improvement, directly impacting you.
Recommendations That Matter to You
The review identifies areas for enhancement, offering recommendations tailored to:
- Increase early intervention to prevent secondary mental injuries post-physical injuries.
- Address workplace factors contributing to or worsening mental injuries.
- Simplify the process for injured workers to secure gainful employment.
- Reduce delays in information provision and decision-making.
- Extend coverage to insecure workers vulnerable to uncompensated risks.
- Tackle other specific issues affecting workers.
What's Next?
Government’s Consideration and Your Role
With 54 recommendations on the table, the Government is actively considering the proposed changes. The response to these recommendations is expected to be unveiled in early 2024. Your awareness of these developments is vital, shaping the future of workers' compensation.
Reflections from the 2018 Review
A Glimpse Into the Past
In the 2018 review, conducted by Professor David Peetz, the scheme's strong performance was affirmed. The report emphasized the scheme's financial soundness and fair treatment for both employers and injured workers.
Implementing Positive Changes
While major reforms weren't deemed necessary, the review made 57 recommendations, many of which were administratively implemented or incorporated into the Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation Amendment Act 2019.
For a Deeper Dive
In-Depth Reports
If you're keen to explore the details, you can access the Operation of the workers' compensation scheme final report for both the 2018 and 2023 reviews.
Your awareness matters. Stay informed to actively participate in the ongoing evolution of Queensland's workers' compensation scheme. For further insights, reach out to key stakeholders and engage in the discourse shaping your work environment's future.