Minister announces terms of reference for Comcare review

The Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Julia Gillard, recently announced the terms of reference for a review of Comcare and has invited submissions from interested parties.

The purpose of the review is to ensure that Comcare is a suitable OHS and workers compensation system for self-insurers and their employees.

With the expansion of the types of industries covered by the Comcare scheme in 2006, the Rudd government is concerned that all employees covered under the scheme are protected by rigorous OHS safeguards and appropriate workers compensation benefits.

Following the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission meeting on 12 December 2007, there are now 19 licensed self-insurers, with a further 15 corporations eligible to apply for a licence to self-insure.

The government wants to hear the views of stakeholders and will undertake national consultation with relevant groups prior to the review finalising its recommendations.

Written submissions can be forwarded to the Commonwealth Safety and Compensation Policy Branch, Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, Loc 64N31, GPO Box 9879, Canberra ACT 2601 or emailed to ComcareReview@dewr.gov.au by 29 February 2008.

A report will be provided to the Minister by the end of July 2008.