WORKCOVER CORPORATION

Mr HANNA (Mitchell) (14:55): My question is to the Premier. What will the Premier do to ensure the WorkCover claims agent will desist from threatening to cut off workers' benefits if they mix with other injured workers? An injured worker recently received a letter from EML, which said:

Employers Mutual Ltd have received information that you are visiting other individuals that are on WorkCover, and liaising with them in relation to their situation.

We write to issue you a warning that this does not continue. If you proceed to continue to visit your fellow colleagues on workers compensation, we shall consider issuing you an applicable discontinuance letter. Under no circumstances should you be visiting other individuals that are on WorkCover.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order!

The Hon. M.J. WRIGHT (Lee—Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Finance, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing) (14:56): I am aware of this issue and I have read the letter, and I say that the letter is totally inappropriate. I am advised that the letter contains no information about the conduct of the injured worker that constitutes a proper basis for the discontinuance of WorkCover benefits. I have spoken on two occasions this morning with the CEO of WorkCover, Ms Julia Davison. Ms Davison also takes this matter very seriously and has informed me that this is not conduct that is condoned by WorkCover.

I also understand this matter has been raised with the Chief Executive Officer of Employers Mutual. The matter is under investigation. I have called for a full report, in particular to determine whether this is a one-off incident and what action will be taken by the WorkCover Corporation regarding this issue. Once again I say that this letter is totally unacceptable and inappropriate.

Honourable members: Hear, hear!