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Kaya (hello) reader and Happy New Year!
We hope you had a restful break and have come back refreshed and ready to embrace a year of evolution and change. WorkCover WA’s focus this year is on how we can support you on the journey to the 1 July 2024 implementation date of the Workers Compensation and Injury Management Act 2023.
We look forward to opportunities to engage with you over the coming months to educate and explain key changes, and to embed vital knowledge. This will assist you to establish effective and sustainable practices going forward.
February will see the start of a series of comprehensive targeted information sessions about the upcoming changes to the legislative and regulatory framework. The first of these sessions for Insurance Brokers and Self-Insurers, will be held on 1 February. These sessions will also feature important information about the It Pays to Care project from Dr Mary Wyatt and Sharon Stratford.
While the sessions on 1 February are sold out, further information sessions will be announced in the coming weeks. Whatever your role is in our scheme, there will be a session for you.
Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for all the latest updates and event information.
FOCUS
As we continue to optimise our data-matching processes, we have increased our ability to effectively reach potential employers and promote voluntary compliance with legal obligations.
Since April 2023, WorkCover WA has sent out over 30,000 targeted Obligation Notices by email and post to potential employers in high-risk industries to educate them on an employer's duty to hold a policy of workers compensation insurance.
High-risk industries were identified by the number of enforcement actions taken by WorkCover WA. Industry groups targeted so far include cafes and restaurants, management and consulting, takeaway food, and hairdressing and beauty services.
To date, over 700 employers in high-risk industries have taken out a policy as a result of these proactive communications.
OTHER NEWS
Annual Statistical Report out now
In 2022-2023, there were 27, 574 claims were lodged within the WA workers compensation scheme
WorkCover WA’s annual statistical report provides an overview of overall activity and key trends within our scheme.
For an overview of scheme performance, and detailed information about claim management, claimant characteristics, premium rates and more – see the full report.
Upcoming Cocos Islands visit
WorkCover WA inspectors will be heading to the Cocos Islands from 30 January to 2 February to increase engagement and raise awareness of workers compensation and injury management obligations among local employers.
Engaging with regionally-based stakeholders and ensuring they have up-to-date resources available to support their needs is a priority for WorkCover WA.
We look forward to several days of productive engagement.
DISPUTE RESOLUTION 101
Disputes can arise at any stage of the claims process. Disputes can occur in relation to a range of issues such as liability to pay compensation, weekly benefit amounts, medical expenses, and return to work programs.
While the majority of workers compensation claims progress to the satisfaction of all parties involved, occasionally parties require assistance to resolve a dispute.
WorkCover WA’s Conciliation and Arbitration Services aims to provide an independent and transparent system for the fair, timely and cost-effective resolution of workers compensation disputes in WA.
CONCILIATION
If reasonable attempts to resolve a dispute by negotiation fail, a party can make an application to Conciliation.
The primary objective of Conciliation is to assist parties in coming to an agreement with the assistance of an independent and impartial conciliation officer, trained in dispute resolution techniques.
While a conciliation officer cannot make a binding determination, they have statutory authority to make limited directions on payment, suspension or reduction of compensation entitlements in some situations.
ARBITRATION
Where Conciliation is attempted and a dispute stands, parties can apply for Arbitration.
Arbitration is a formal process for evidence to be heard, with a qualified arbitrator making a legally binding determination on matters in dispute.
An arbitrator is a legal practitioner with specific training and expertise in arbitration, who will review the evidence, facts, and law to make a final and binding decision.
Collaboration matters! Complete our short survey to help us keep you in the loop and deliver the news that matters to you in 2024! Survey open until 31 January 2024.
Foundations of Workers’ Compensation: WRPs
Develop your skills by completing this free online training course.
Foundations of Workers' Compensation: Claims Managers
Get 10 NIBA/ANZIIF CPD points when you complete this free online training.
Events and Important Dates
PIEF Conference 2024
28-30 October 2024
WorkCover WA acknowledges the traditional custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community.
We pay our respects to all Aboriginal communities and their cultures, to elders past, present and emerging.
