January changes to the WorkCover Scheme

The key changes that start on 1 January 2009 are:

• The introduction rehabilitation and return to work coordinators in workplaces with 30 or more workers to focus and coordinate return to work efforts
• A streamlined dispute resolution structure
• The introduction of provisional liability – a process which allows for weekly compensation payments and medical expenses to start within seven days
• An early reporting reward for employers who report a claim within two business days with a waiver of the first two weeks of wage payments.

Download the guide to the January 2009 changes [586KB]

Download the guide to the January 2009 changes (rich text file) [72KB]

Information sessions were delivered in January and February 2009 to provide an overview of these changes. Each session included:

• an overview of implementation activities to date
• an introduction to rehabilitation and return to work coordinators
• an introduction to provisional liability - what, why, guidelines and claim form including details on the operational aspects of provisional liability
• additional legislative information, including April changes.

Part 1: Overview of January changes and rehabilitation and return to work coordinators	Part 2: Provisional liability	Part 3: Overview of April changes

View the slides from the info session [263KB]

 
Please note: The new arrangements for legal costs were due to start on 1 January 2009. However, further consideration and consultation is required before these changes come into effect.

WorkCover will keep stakeholders informed of progress on these changes in due course.