Still time to have your say on Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act

There’s still time for Australians to have their say on the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (SRC Act) with the first stage of public consultation extended.

Submissions are now due by 20 December 2024, and survey responses by 31 January 2025.

The SRC Act underpins the Comcare scheme, which has not been reviewed in more than 10 years and has not been subject to major reforms since its 1988 commencement.

The scheme covers over 470,000 people, providing rehabilitation and workers’ compensation arrangements to Commonwealth and ACT Government workers, and a number of private corporations.

So far, over 340 responses have been received to the independent review, including around 55 written submissions and around 285 survey responses.

Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Murray Watt encouraged anyone who had been considering making a submission to take advantage of the extra time.

“We want to hear from anyone who has experience with the Comcare scheme to ensure this review delivers the best outcomes for injured workers,” Minister Watt said.

“The review will cover all aspects of the Comcare scheme, including its governance, usability and entitlements.

“It is critical we get this right to ensure the legislation is fit for purpose to provide the most effective support for people injured at work.”

The panel would like to hear from:

• Injured workers or family members of injured workers who have lived experience of the Comcare scheme.
• Other participants directly involved in the workers’ compensation scheme, such as employers, claims managers, rehabilitation providers and health care providers.
• Peak representative bodies and organisations.
• Legal representatives, insurers, actuaries and academics with experience in workers’ compensation.

For more information visit the Consultation Hub.