What is Return to work assist?

Return to work assist is a free Q-COMP program that helps injured workers who are unable to return to their former employer after a work related injury.

Return to work assist links people with career advice, training, job placement services and support to assist in achieving their career goals.

The Return to work assist team are committed to providing opportunities for injured workers to overcome barriers and realise their return to work goals sooner via innovative and creative strategies.

Since the program began in July 2008, Return to work assist has helped a significant number of injured workers return to work.

How Return to work assist works

Referral to Q-COMP's Return to work assist is mandatory for insurers in Queensland, but participation remains voluntary for injured workers. Once a referral is received a Return to work assist Advisor supports the worker with their return to work through:

Personalised service

A Return to work assist Advisor conducts an initial interview and assessment and provides support for the individual to start on their pathway back to work.

Career planning

Workers can be referred for career information services. This provides workers who are heading in a new career direction to gain a greater insight into the types of jobs they are best suited for.

Job readiness

Assistance is available to update resumes and learn job finding and interview techniques.

Free training

Government funded training programs are identified and workers are linked to registered training providers where they learn new skills to help them with their return to work goals.

Return to work

Workers' early access to current return to work services gives them a greater chance of securing employment sooner.

Benefits of Return to work assist

For injured workers

Return to work assist provides early access to current return to work services at no cost and help them obtain employment and continue working.

For insurers

It means better return to work outcomes and the opportunity to increase worker, employer and staff satisfaction. It can also help to improve relationships with medical providers.

For employers

The initiative increases the number of available skilled workers during a period of skill shortages. Maximising return to work outcomes may also help to reduce employer's premiums.