Victorian government pledges to 'help employers recover and make safer workplaces'

The Victorian government has recently pledged to keep WorkCover premiums at “one of the lowest rates” in the country so that employers and businesses could focus on “recovering and rebuilding” after the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a media release, the state has announced that the average target premium rate will stay at 1.272 percent of remuneration for the 2022/23 premium year.

”The global pandemic has been disruptive for workers and businesses, and WorkSafe hasn’t been immune to this. Volatility in international markets has affected WorkSafe’s financial projections compared to last year – on top of the existing pressure from complex claims, especially for mental injuries,” the media release said.

Thus, WorkSafe will be receiving $300 million from the government to ensure that the current premium rate is maintained to help injured workers to get support consistently.

“The government is acting to ensure the scheme remains sustainable, with work underway to better prevent injuries, increase support for injured workers and improve tailored claims handling.”

Key reforms have also been introduced to the WorkCover scheme as part of its implementation of changes after an independent review revealed some areas for improvement with the management of “complex claims.” Peter Rozen QC reportedly conducted the said review.

“The reforms will transform the scheme to better address modern workplace injuries, particularly mental injuries – which can be harder to identify and require unique supports and recovery pathways. WorkSafe is expanding its Claims and Recovery Support Team to focus on specialised interventions for these more complex claims,” the media release announced.

The state has also pledged to continue the development of better psychological health regulations to prevent psychological harm in the workplace, through initiatives such as the WorkSafe’s Mental Health Strategy 2021-24 and year one Action Plan which guides “the significant reform work already underway to establish mentally healthy workplaces,” and its $50 million WorkWell program. The latter reportedly helps employers to create mentally healthy workplaces through funded projects, learning networks and a soon to be expanded online toolkit.

“We know it’s been a tough few years for businesses – that’s why we’re keeping WorkCover premiums low so businesses can continue to recover from the impacts of the pandemic,” Victoria’s Minister for Workplace Safety Ingrid Stitt said.

“Victorian workers need to know that when they ask for help, the WorkCover scheme is there to support them and their families – this investment ensures that help is there as we get on with making our workplaces safer,” Stitt added.