WORKCOVER IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

The Hon. J.R. RAU (Enfield—Deputy Premier, Attorney-General, Minister for Planning, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Business Services and Consumers) (14:05): I seek leave to make a ministerial statement.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.R. RAU: There have been a number of reviews of workers' compensation in this state over recent years—

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: The Deputy Premier has been granted leave and I call the deputy leader to order.

The Hon. J.R. RAU: There have been a number of reviews of workers' compensation in this state over recent years and significant legislative changes were made in 2008. However, there is no doubt in my mind that more needs to be done. The scheme works well for many: 74 per cent of claims result in less than two weeks off work or—

Mrs Redmond: Certain people on the board do very well.

The SPEAKER: I call the member for Heysen to order.

The Hon. J.R. RAU: I will read that again, Mr Speaker. The scheme works well for many: 74 per cent of claims result in less than two weeks off work or are for medical costs only. A further 9 per cent are resolved within three months. However, the 11 per cent of claims that extend past six months' duration account for 92 per cent of the scheme's claim costs. Our big challenge is mainly in that 11 per cent. Return to work is central to that—

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: I warn the deputy leader for the first time. Deputy Premier.

The Hon. J.R. RAU: Thank you, Mr Speaker. Return to work is central to that challenge. Every aspect of the legislation and the operations of WorkCover should be assessed through one question: 'Does this really contribute to return to work?' For example, are rehabilitation services being used appropriately, effectively and delivered in areas of need to return injured employees to work? Are legislative levers for employers or employees being used in such a manner that they contribute to workers returning to work? Are all processes and procedures around management of claims focused and directed to supporting an early return to work? Is WorkCover adequately discharging its role as scheme regulator?

Today I met with representatives of employer and employee groups and associations to seek suggestions for both legislative and operational changes to the workers' compensation system. I will be assisted by the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Advisory Committee, which has representatives from industry employer, employee associations and rehabilitation providers. I will be considering all proposals put forward with a view to identifying areas where improvements can be achieved. I have set everyone this task with clear priorities:

1. increasing return-to-work rates;

2. reducing the unfunded liability;

3. improving the experience of injured workers in the WorkCover system; and

4. reduction in premiums.

I am seeking suggestions that contribute to a cohesive sustainable scheme and that are as best as possible embraced by both business and employee groups. Changes may be operational or, if they require legislation, they will preferably be matters that have bipartisan support. I want any legislation to be passed early this year so that we can begin to see swift improvement.

The objective is simple: decrease injury and improve the rate of return to work for injured workers. The natural outcomes of success in these objectives will advance the priorities that I have outlined. I am hopeful that all interested parties can work together to achieve these goals. They are in the interests of all South Australians.