Legislative amendments to s220 of Workers' Compensation and
Rehabilitation Act 2003 will come into effect from 1 July
2010.
The changes will mean that for every claim that is closed and a
worker is unable to return to work or has no job to return to, they
must be referred to Return to work assist.
Currently Return to work assist is averaging 50 referrals per
month, however, with these legislative changes, referrals are
likely to rise to over 400 referrals per month. To prepare our
programme for this increase, we're currently reviewing our resource
modelling and developing products that are able to be incorporated
in the higher volume environment. In addition we are developing a
monitoring system that will keep track of those who meaningfully
participate in our programmes so that any queries can be answered
in the event the injured worker decides to bring a common law
claim.
Return to work Assist is a free service for injured workers in
Queensland who have no job to return to after a work related
injury. Since implementation in 2008, the program has continued to
grow and achieve some amazing results. We have received 622
referrals to date with 195 injured workers returning to work, 41
being linked to appropriate providers for ongoing assistance and 15
returning to full time study.
By working together with a range of stakeholders we have been able
to ensure that those injured workers that have no job to return to
are provided with the appropriate support and encouragement needed
to achieve their return to work goals.
Return to work assist is easily accessible, with a simple,
straightforward and clear process. When an injured worker's claim
is coming to an end and they have no job to return to, they can
access Return to work Assist.
A personalised plan is put together for the worker, which gives
them options in accessing a range of existing career services such
as resume writing, retraining opportunities, disability employment
networks, job services providers and paid work placement programs.
The team maintain regular contact with the worker as they work
through their plan, ensuring they are encouraged and supported
throughout the reintegration process.
Return to work assist is well on its way to becoming part of the
language of workers' compensation in Queensland and the Return to
work assist team remain committed to giving injured workers the
best opportunity to return to a happy, safe and rewarding role in
the workforce.
Referral is simple, you can complete a form on-line or email our
referral form to rtwassist@qcomp.com.au
If any further information is required please don't hesitate to
contact Sonia Minniecon, Manager Return to work assist and Awards
Unit on 07 3020 6417
