With less than a month to go, employers need to understand their responsibilities under the new Workers Compensation and Injury Management Act 2023.

CCIWA WHS Safety Practitioner Michelle Strother said the law was designed to protect workers who are injured on the job and ensure mandatory insurance coverage for this liability.

“Employers must have a documented injury management system for their workplace,” she said. 

“This system should outline procedures for managing workplace injuries, including the steps to be taken when an injury occurs, the process for lodging a workers’ compensation claim, and the strategies for supporting injured workers in their return to work.” 

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Strother said that when a worker was injured, employers were required to make sure that a workers’ compensation claim is handled accordingly. 

“This involves timely processing of the claim, cooperating with the insurer, and providing necessary support to the injured worker, including a return-to-work process,” she said. 

It is important to note: 

• The Act requires employers to make the worker’s pre-injury position available unless it is not reasonably practicable or provide a suitable position for the worker. 
• This obligation lasts for 12 months from the date of the worker’s incapacity for work. 
• Employers must also have an up-to-date workers’ compensation insurance policy that covers all of their workers. This ensures that if a worker is injured at the workplace, they will receive proper compensation, and the employer will be protected from potential financial liability. 

The Workcover inspectorate has the power to visit any workplace and audit these provisions. 

“Complying with the Act is not only legally required but also demonstrates your dedication to your employees’ wellbeing,” Strother said. 

“By understanding and fulfilling your responsibilities under the Act, you can create a safer, healthier, and more productive workplace.” 

For more information, we have a training course available, or to conduct an audit of your systems, please contact [email protected].