New Arbitration Service to Assist Victorian Injured Workers

On September 1, the Workplace Injury Commission will replace the Accident Compensation Conciliation Service as the new arbitration service.

The changes introduce the Victorian Ombudsman’s recommendation to create a new dispute resolution procedure that allows for quick, affordable, and conclusive rulings on claim merits.

Important takeaway:

The new arbitration service established by the Andrews Labor Government will:

• saving injured workers money, time, and worry, which leads to more equality of outcome for all Victorian businesses and workers,

• addressing workers’ compensation issues successfully will help workers get back on their feet as soon as possible.

• an additional option to the lengthy and expensive court process for injured workers,

• new dispute resolution procedure that allows for quick, affordable, and conclusive decisions on the merits of claims decisions; injured workers may elect to have their issue arbitrated by the Workplace Injury Commission if it cannot be resolved through conciliation.

• A hearing must begin within 30 days of the dispute’s referral.

The Workplace Injury Commission will have the authority to:

• make binding decisions on disputes.

• include compensation for weekly wages.

• pay for medical expenses, superannuation, or interest.

The full article from the Premier of Victoria can be found here.

A pdf copy of the Media Release can be downloaded here.

Related reading: Workers Compensation Independent Review Service (WCIRS) Process – An Independent Review into Management of Complex Workers’ Compensation Claims.

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Disclaimer:

The information in this post is strictly for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. It is not intended to express specific opinions about specific cases. Before acting on any of the issues discussed in this post, seek additional advice. The information provided should not be relied on for any purpose other than to assist you to understand how Workers’ Compensation insurance works. It is for illustrative purposes only and My WorkCover Solutions Pty Ltd does not accept liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person resulting in any way from the use of or reliance on, the information provided. The information in this article is believed to be correct as of the date of publication. However, changes in the applicable laws may have an impact on the accuracy of the material. This article contains general information that is not tailored to any specific person’s situation. This publication may contain information that relates to the regulation of Workers’ Compensation insurance in your State or Territory. To ensure you comply with your legal obligations, we would recommend you refer to the appropriate legislation as currently in force in the State or Territory you conduct your business. You can find up-to-date legislation by visiting each state’s WorkCover Authority website, alternatively contact myWorkCover for updated information.