Changes to Queensland workers compensation laws
Last year there were some changes to the Queensland workers compensation system because of amendments to the Workers Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (Qld). A second raft of changes, many of which could affect your business, will come into force next week on 1 July 2020.
1. Unpaid interns
Workers’ compensation coverage will be extended to unpaid interns to ensure they have access to relevant entitlements if they are injured.
2. Rehab and Return to Work Coordinators (RRTWCs)
Employers who are required to have a rehabilitation and return to work coordinator in their business will have extra WorkCover reporting obligations.
When is a business required to appoint a RRTWC?
Businesses in high-risk industries must appoint a RRTWC if the business’s payroll in the last financial year was over $4,092,400.00. High-risk industries include agriculture, forestry and fishing, mining, construction, transport and storage, health and community services, and waste services.
Businesses in other industries must appoint a RRTWC if total wages paid to employees in the preceding financial year is over $8,184,800.00.
CCIQ provides free workers compensation information helpline to assist all Queensland employers. If you believe any of these changes might impact your business, we recommend contacting CCIQ’s Workers Compensation information hotline immediately on 1300 365 855 or email us at workcoverinfo@cciq.com.au for detailed information and advice.
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