Business Council supports amends to workers’ compensation laws
October 18, 2013
The Sunshine Coast Business Council (SCBC) today applauded the state government for passing its overhaul of the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act through parliament last night, saying the amendments would result in significant benefits for Sunshine Coast businesses in the years to come.
SCBC Chair Sandy Zubrinich said the changes — which, under common law, require workers injured on the job to have an impairment of at least five per cent whole person impairment (WPI) in order to make a claim — provide better protection for employers who have long been bearing the brunt of compensation costs.
“We believe these amendments provide an environment where workers who have suffered a genuine injury can access financial support, while local businesses are offered some protection from being crippled by excessive and outlandish claims as well as significantly escalating premiums,” Ms Zubrinich said.
“With insurance premiums estimated to drop by up to 13 per cent, employers having access to a job applicant’s injury history and heavier penalties for workers lodging fraudulent claims, we believe the playing field has been levelled somewhat resulting in a more fair and equitable system for all stakeholders.”
“Businesses cannot continue to carry these costs and we commend the state government for curtailing the very generous scheme of the past. What we need right now is encouragement for businesses to take on more staff to drive down unemployment and these reforms will definitely make it more attractive for businesses to do so.”
The Sunshine Coast Business Council is the leading regional business advocacy group on the Sunshine Coast representing approximately 5,000 businesses through its membership which includes key national and regional industry groups and their members as well as national and regional businesses.
For more information please visit www.scbusinesscouncil.com.au.
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Interviews: Ms Zubrinich is available for interviews on request.
Media contact: Maya Gurry – Fresh PR & Marketing P: 0410 109 102
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