WRCAC Communique September 2019

The Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Advisory Council (the Council) met on 5 September 2019.

The following items were discussed:

National Certificate of Capacity – Update

The Council noted that the draft National Certificate of Capacity was sent out for stakeholder consultation for consideration and feedback. The certificate will be presented at the next Heads of Workers Compensation Authorities (HWCA) meeting.

Review of the National Consistent Approval Framework for Workplace Rehabilitation Providers

The Council noted that the HWCA TAG working group held their final meeting, with the draft principals forwarded to HWCA for endorsement.

National Return to Work Strategy – Update

The Council noted that the National Return to Work Strategy has been sent to Ministers' for endorsement. Each jurisdiction are currently reviewing the key return to work initiatives to further develop the implementation plan.

Working Group - Premium Percentage Increases

The elected working group held its first meeting and clarified the scope of works to be completed. The group will seek to ascertain if there is a prevalence to employer premiums receiving large increases on renewal.

Other Business –

Annual Report 2018/2019

The Council discussed the activities and approved the Annual Report.

Safe Work Month 

NT WorkSafe, Rehabilitation and Compensation team will be delivering sessions at this years’ Safe Work Month in Alice Springs and Darwin. The team will be meeting with doctors and Allied Health Services to discuss their roles in the workers compensation scheme. They have also arranged to meet with Aboriginal Council members to build relationships and look at how information to remote communities can be provided

Health Benefits of Good Work Biannual Forum 

The Council acknowledged the recognition received to NT WorkSafe from the national forum on the work in developing an online training course and the innovation that comes from the Territory to assist in upskilling the workforce.

The next meeting is scheduled for December 2019.