NSW WorkCover reform a matter of urgency, claims Ai Group

Australian Industry Group NSW Director Mark Goodsell has released a statement indicating the urgent need for reform of the NSW WorkCover scheme.

“Union rallies against proposed NSW WorkCover reforms ignore the fact that the current scheme is failing us all,” Goodsell said on 13 June.

“Businesses across NSW have for years been disadvantaged by substantially higher WorkCover premiums than other states. This disparity, which has been driving investment and jobs out of NSW, is set to widen unless serious action is taken and we will be looking for recommendations for significant reform when the parliamentary committee hands down its report into the scheme today.

“Without reform, WorkCover premiums will rise 28% on average - that is too much for the state’s business to bear, particularly in this lopsided economy. It is even harder to swallow when you compare this to the rates in Victoria and Queensland - up to 60% less.

“Ai Group’s 3000 NSW members and their hundreds of thousands of employees deserve better.

“Business wants a scheme that benefits both employers and employees. The commercial imperative of a scheme with competitive premiums needs to be balanced with one that provides greater support for injured workers and encourages a faster return to work,” Goodsell said.