The Australian Hotels Association NSW (AHA NSW) has joined ClubsNSW and three other peak industry bodies to support reforms proposed by the Minns Government to repair the state’s workers compensation scheme.
AHA NSW and ClubsNSW have joined with Restaurant and Catering Australia (R&CA), the Pharmacy Guild NSW and the Australian Childcare Alliance (NSW) (ACA NSW) to stress urgently passing the legislation, concerned that more committee referrals would cause further costly inaction.
The number and cost of psychological injury claims have increased sharply, and under the current system employers frequently lack the means to defend themselves against unproven allegations.
The goal of the reforms is to create a fairer system that is more sustainable, removing structural flaws while supporting those with genuine psychological injuries.
The reforms ensure the workers compensation scheme will deliver a sharper focus on prevention, rehabilitation, and return to work.
The industry bodies believe the bill offers an opportunity of substantial progress, deserving support from every side of politics.
Lyn Connolly, President of ACA NSW, recognised that while there is a strong commitment from employers to support injured workers and help them return to work, there is also a pressing need to address the rising cost of workers compensation premiums to ensure the system remains affordable, effective, and sustainable for both workers and employers.
AHA NSW and ClubsNSW commended the government for taking action via this positive reform, which will ensure a more sustainable system for employers and employees alike.
“The case for this workers compensation reform is clear and we do not need another inquiry,” said ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant.
“We encourage the NSW Parliament to seize this opportunity for bipartisan reform, creating a fair system for businesses and injured workers.”
