Section 106A of the Bill introduces a requirement for employers to ensure that their return-to-work coordinators either complete approved training within the specific timeframe or hold a qualification approved by the Minister. Failure to comply with section 106A may result in penalties of up to 600 penalty units (currently $122,106) for a body corporate.
In accordance with section 106B, the Minister, by order published in the Government Gazette, has the power to determine what training is to be completed (approved training) (e.g., skills and knowledge to be acquired in a course of training or under a qualification, the content and syllabus of a course of training or qualification), the time period it must be completed in, and the specific qualifications that must be held by a return-to-work coordinator (approved qualification).
Section 106D of the Bill imposes further obligations on the employer relating to reimbursement of their return-to-work coordinator for any time spent working through approved training. These obligations include:
- allowing the return-to-work coordinator time off work to attend or complete approved training;
- reimbursing the return-to-work coordinator with the pay they would otherwise be entitled to receive from the employer for that normal work period (both during and outside of normal work hours); and
- paying the costs associated with the attendance or completion of approved training.
Section 106E of the Bill further requires employers to provide return-to-work coordinators with the facilities and assistance reasonably necessary to carry out their duties, unless the employer has a reasonable excuse for failing to do so. Failure to comply with this new provision may result in a penalty of up to 600 penalty units (currently $122,106) for a body corporate.
You can view the bill here – Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment Bill 2025 | legislation.vic.gov.au
Note: These changes will come into operation no later than 01.07.2027
Contact Jayrose Group Australia today on 1300 785 244 if you have any queries re the above.
