Q-COMP

The Queensland workers' compensation system itself remained relatively stable during this time. However, following extensive consultation with stakeholders, the Workers' Compensation Act 1990 commenced 1 January 1991, repealing the 1916 Act. The structure of the scheme was retained, as was the basic philosophy to provide fairness and equity for employers paying premium and for employees with work related injuries. However, major increases to benefits and services to injured workers were introduced based on outcomes of the consultation process.

The 1990 Act was subsequently amended, including to the definition of injury (employment to be "a significant contributing factor"); enhancement of the existing merit/bonus system with the introduction of penalties for adverse claims experience and providing greater financial incentive for employers to reduce the numbers and costs of workplace injuries; on 1 July 1995 moving Queensland public sector agencies into a premium based system and WCBQ took on the defence of common law claims on behalf of all government departments; employer excess introduced; surcharge on premiums; 'irrevocable election' for common law; comprehensive table of injuries including whole person impairment scales; changes to many statutory entitlements.

On 11 March 1996, the Government of the day announced the appointment of Mr Jim Kennedy to undertake an Inquiry into Workers' Compensation and Related Matters in Queensland. The Kennedy Report made a total of 79 recommendations in relation to the provision of workers' compensation in Queensland.