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View Full Version : Workers comp scheme labelled 'risk'



Newshound
24-01-2008, 09:32 AM
The future of the federal Comcare scheme is under inquiry which could eventuate into a reform of workplace safety and compensation laws.

Ian Brown from The Australian Lawyers Alliance has welcomed the review saying that “Any expansion of the scheme is a significant and unacceptable risk to workers and small businesses”, The Age reported.

The Howard Government expanded the Comcare scheme to allow national companies such as Optus, Chubb and National Australia Bank that compete with a commonwealth authority to apply to be self-insured.

Employment and Workplace Relations Minister Julia Gillard of the federal government says the review is to ensure that the scheme is a suitable OHS and worker compensation system both for self-insurers and their employees.

During the inquiry, stakeholders will consult with relevant groups and upon a review will finalise its recommendations.

The Age article can be accessed here (http://news.theage.com.au/lawyers-slam-workers-compo-scheme-risk/20080123-1nki.html)for more professional opinion.