Improvements to governance in the State's workers compensation system have driven the appointment of three directors to the workplace insurer, icare.
The board appointments follow an amendment to the State Insurance and Care Governance Act 2015 in July.
Mr John Walsh AO, a respected actuary, accomplished social policy leader and disability advocate, has been reappointed.
Ms Leah Fricke, a legal professional with extensive executive and board experience, including in the finance industry and on government boards, has been appointed a non-Executive Director.
Significantly, the change passed last year requires the icare board to include two directors nominated by worker and business bodies.
The Secretary of Unions NSW, Mr Mark Morey, has been appointed as the new employee representative.
Mr Morey has extensive board experience and a deep understanding of the needs of workers accessing the scheme, bringing a user focus for injured workers requiring icare's services.
The appointment of an employer representative nominee director will occur upon expiry of an existing director term in mid to late 2024.
The size and cost of the icare board remains unchanged with eight non-executive directors.
Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis thanked outgoing director Michael Cameron for his service as Deputy Chair on the icare board, Chair of the Board Audit committee and for his contribution to the Board Risk committee and Technology and Data Strategy committee.
icare manages workers compensation for about 330,000 business and 3.4 million workers in NSW, with about 60,000 new claims each year.
Minister for Work Health and Safety, Sophie Cotsis said:
"These key appointments ensure we have the appropriate skills and experience on the icare board.
"Ms Fricke brings deep audit and risk experience which will be instrumental in steering icare through the strategic challenges it faces to achieve financial sustainability. Her regional background will support robust discussion.
"Mr Morey has a deep understanding of the needs of injured workers and will focus on ensuring those who experience injuries, accidents or ill-health are at the centre of the system.
"I am also pleased to announce the reappointment of Mr Walsh, an experienced social policy leader who continues to inspire with his dedication to ensuring those with a disability are supported in achieving the best possible quality of life outcomes.
"After 12 years of neglect at the hands of the former government, reforming icare won't be quick or easy. But I am confident we are on the right trajectory".
