Long, drawn-out WorkCover injury claims processes and Workers Compensation disputes can be costly and unpleasant for both employers and employees. Having an injured worker is stressful enough without having to go through the claim dispute process – especially when you already have a lot on your plate!
Recent legislation changes made by the Andrews Labour Government are designed to ensure workers compensation disputes are resolved in a more timely and efficient way. The Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment (Arbitration) Bill 2021 allows:
- The Accident Compensation Conciliation Service (ACCS) to have further power towards dispute resolution of workers compensation claims.
- Injured Workers can now choose to have the ACCS arbitrate a matter on their behalf.
- The ACCS must commence a hearing within 30 days of the dispute being referred.
- The hearing should conclude within 60 days, with a determination made within two weeks of the hearing concluding.
These changes are intended to deliver fairer outcomes by providing a simpler and cheaper alternative to court proceedings. It also ensures workers compensation injury claims disputes are resolved within four months, leading to faster dispute resolutions. The new laws will also help to free up court capacity and boost efficiency by diverting suitable claims away from the court system.
Please note: Commencement dates are to be confirmed.
Do you have an active WorkCover employee injury claim?
Employee injury claims or workers compensation claim disputes can be overwhelming and stressful for both employers and the injured workers. Outsourcing your employee injury claims or any workplace injury legal matters allows the entire process to be taken care of on your behalf – so you can focus on what really matters.
The team at Jayrose Group Australia have helped finalise over 750 employee injury claims for businesses of all sizes and across a number of industries including construction, healthcare and manufacturing. Our objective is always to move claims to resolution as efficiently as possible, for the sake of everyone involved. Find out more on our injury claims management services or contact us today to see how we can help your business.
