The Minns Labor Government is continuing its commitment to support local businesses navigate the workers compensation system by holding a business forum in Blacktown.
The forum will provide over 100 local businesses with practical advice, resources and insights all geared towards helping better manage their premiums.
With the gross incurred workers compensation cost at $130M per year in the Blacktown region, the forum will provide vital information on injury prevention, early intervention, and recovery support for mental health at work.
Sessions will include information on how premiums are calculated, what business owners can do to support their staff's wellbeing, and will provide advice on return-to-work strategies.
The Minns Labor Government recently passed the most significant reform to workers compensation in a generation. The reform ensures early support to injured workers, a road to recovery and return to work
The reform also puts the workers compensation system on the path to sustainability so that it can continue to care for injured workers and be affordable for business to fund.
The reform will see the average premium rate for small businesses frozen from July, preventing what would have been a 36% hike to workers compensation premiums.
It will also strengthen employer defences against compensation claims ensuring reasonable management action does not result in claims made against businesses.
Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:
"Small businesses are the lifeblood of the NSW economy, contributing over $535 billion every year and the key to successful small businesses, is the workers at the heart of them.
"Following the Minns Labor Government's largest reforms to workers compensation in a generation. We know that navigating the workers compensation system can be difficult and we're committed to helping local business navigate the system.
"Helping businesses keep their workers safe, support recovery, and ensure everyone gets home safely at the end of each day isn't just good for health - it saves businesses money."
Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali said:
"Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the lifeblood of our communities. They drive innovation, create local jobs, and build vibrancy in Blacktownand across NSW.
"The Blacktown region has close to 13,000 local businesses employing more than 110,000 people. Forums like this support these local businesses and their workers to navigate government systems and help them grow."
Member for Riverstone Warren Kirby said:
"As a small business owner myself, I know how important it is to be able to understand the workers compensation system.
"Forums like these are vital forums in educating small businesses on how to navigate the system as well as how to create physically and mentally healthy workspaces.
"Small Businesses are the backbone to our communities, often run by local families and employ locals too. They need support and advice and I'm proud that the Minns Labor government is providing this ongoing help."
icare Manager Mobile Engagement Team Manager David Huxley said:
"We are here to help local business owners understand the impact their unique claims history and other risk factors have on the premium they pay and explain the savings and incentives that are often available to them."
"The calculations behind icare's premiums are risk-based, and businesses with strong safety performance are usually rewarded with discounted premiums. Our talk is packed full of top tips for local businesses looking to build safety and to help their injured workers get back to work faster."
