The Minns Labor Government is continuing to support local business and organisations in Macarthur and southwest Sydney by recently running a forum in Campbelltown which advised small businesses on how they can better navigate the workers compensation system, how to handle claims and offered information on return-to-work programs.
The forum run by icare provided over 100 local businesses with practical advice, resources and insights all geared towards helping better manage their premiums as well as information on injury prevention, early intervention and recovery support for mental health at work.
Small businesses are the lifeblood of the NSW economy, contributing over $535 billion every year.
The South-West Sydney region has over 26,000 businesses that employ over 220,000 people. Gross incurred workers compensation cost per year in the region is almost $300 million.
The forum included information on how premiums are calculated, what business owners can do to support their staff's wellbeing and provided advice on return-to-work strategies.
The multi-session day highlighted the importance of understanding workplace obligations and featured speakers from the NSW Government, icare, and SafeWork NSW covering topics such as Savings & Incentives for Small Business, Mentally Healthy Workplaces & Understanding your psychosocial obligations and Understanding your Experience-Rated Employer Premium to minimise costs.
The Minns Labor Government is committed to fixing the state's workers compensation system to ensure a sustainable scheme that works for the state's injured workers and businesses who pay the premiums.
The Government workers compensation reform package is still stuck in the Parliament. The package passed the Legislative Assembly in early June, before being delayed by the Opposition.
Every day reform is delayed the workers compensation system deteriorates further.
Just 50 per cent of workers with a psychological injury can return to work within a year, compared to 95 per cent of workers with a physical injury.
The private sector scheme is going backwards by $6 million per day. It is soon expected to hold only 80 cents in assets for every dollar it will have to pay in claims.
Absent reform, 340,000 NSW businesses will have to pay a 36 per cent increase in premiums over the next three years even if they have no claims against them.
The Minns Labor government is committed to increasing engagement with small business in line with its reforms.
Employers in NSW can register for future events online or immediately access a range of free, easy-to-use tools from icare's Small Business Hub.
The icare online Mental Health Hub, provides employers with free tools, resources, and guidance to support their workforce, manage claims and help tackle these costs
For more information about upcoming icare outreach events, visit the website.
Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:
"I'm pleased to have attended this important forum in Campbelltown where there is a real need to provide support and information for businesses of all sizes. Icare experts were in attendance to provide important advice, tips, tools and useful information. This one-on-one engagement is critical.
"Helping local employers support their workers to stay safe, return to work quickly and get home safely at the end of every day not only safeguards workers' health, but saves them money.
"The NSW Government has introduced legislation to reform the Workers Compensation System and our Workplace Health and Safety system to improve the prevention and treatment of psychological injuries which occur at work. This includes increasing the Government's outreach to small businesses so they can better navigate a complex system.
"The NSW Government's 2025-26 Budget announcement strengthened the state's work health and safety regulator with a major $127.7 million investment over the next four years to address psychosocial hazards and compliance and enforcement of safe work practices."
Member for Campbelltown Greg Warren said:
"Small businesses are the lifeblood of our region. It is important that we support them to find ways to successfully navigate the Workers Compensation system.
"I wish to sincerely thank the local business community for their collaboration and assistance to put this event together. Their commitment to finding smarter, more efficient ways to operate is what keeps the local economy moving."
Member for Camden Sally Quinnell said:
"The Camden community is home to some incredible and thriving small businesses, from restaurants to retail and everything in between.
"It's imperative that our government ensures these businesses are supported, as they are the heart and soul of our communities - and we wouldn't be on the map without them."
Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan said:
"This event is an important initiative to help local businesses in Wollondilly to continue to thrive and prosper.
"The information session on how to manage claims were invaluable for businesses to help with their costs.
"I would like to thank Minister Cotsis for helping stage this event and for her continued support."
President Campbelltown Business Chamber Shefali Pall said:
"Events like this in Campbelltown are crucial for equipping local business owners with practical tools, expert advice, and cost-saving strategies that make a real difference.
"We're committed to ensuring local businesses have every opportunity to grow and thrive.
"I'd like to thank Minister Cotsis for her strong advocacy and continued support."
icare Manager Mobile Engagement Team Adam O'Leary said:
"Psychosocial injury claims have increased sharply in recent years, particularly in high pressure roles and people facing industries.
"This event was about equipping business owners with practical strategies to reduce risks, meet WHS obligations, and support their people through recovery, because healthier workplaces are stronger workplaces."
