Government announces review of Commonwealth workers' compensation scheme

This marks the first major review of the Commonwealth workers’ compensation scheme in over a decade.

The federal government has announced an independent review of the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (SRC Act), which is the legislation that underpins the Comcare scheme.

This marks the first major review of the Commonwealth workers’ compensation scheme in over a decade, and the first significant reforms since its inception in 1988. The Comcare scheme covers over 470,000 employees, including those from the Commonwealth Government, the ACT Government, and various private corporations.

The review, announced this week, will be led by an expert panel chaired by Ms Justine Ross, with Professor Robin Creyke AO and Mr Gregory Isolani serving as panel members. These panelists bring extensive expertise in workers' compensation, legal frameworks, claimant experience, and government policy.

Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Tony Burke emphasised the evolving nature of workplace injuries and illnesses over the past 35 years, highlighting the necessity of the review to ensure the scheme remains effective and supportive.

"The nature of workplace injuries and illnesses have changed a lot over the last 35 years. This review will tell us what we can do to futureproof the scheme and make sure we’re getting the best outcomes for injured workers," said Minister Burke.

The panel's work will involve extensive stakeholder engagement to gather insights and feedback from those directly impacted by the scheme. This inclusive approach aims to ensure that the review reflects the diverse experiences and needs of all stakeholders.

During the review process, the scheme will temporarily limit new applications to companies whose majority of employees are already covered by Comcare. This precautionary measure aims to maintain stability within the scheme while the review assesses the SRC Act’s effectiveness and suitability.

The review aims to investigate all aspects of the scheme, including governance, usability and entitlements, as well as provide recommendations around futureproofing the scheme. A final report by the panel is expected to be handed down within 12 months.

Further details about the review can be found on the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations’ website.