Queensland Law Society Media Release

Queensland Law Society applauds ‘sensible and equitable’ WorkCover reforms

Proposed reforms of Queensland’s WorkCover scheme are sensible and equitable, Queensland Law Society President Peter Eardley said today.

He said the package of WorkCover changes announced today by Premier Anna Bligh and Industrial Relations Minister Cameron Dick addresses three key concerns raised by the Queensland Law Society in its submission on the proposed reforms.

“Firstly, the decision not to introduce thresholds or other restrictions on an injured worker’s access to common law claims for compensation is to be applauded as an essential element in retaining what is already Australia’s best and most efficient workers’ compensation scheme,” he said.

“Secondly, harmonising arrangements with the Civil Liability Act 2003 was preferable to the introduction of thresholds as it provides a simple platform that lets every participant know where they stand in terms of liability, contributory negligence and damages.

“Finally, increasing the onus of proof in proving employer fault is a sensible change that simply brings this law closer to the law of common sense.”

Mr Eardley said the Queensland Law Society had advocated for a scheme that was sustainable through the transparent application of good prudential practice, and one that fairly rehabilitated and compensated workers injured as a result of their employment.

“I congratulate the Queensland Government on delivering reforms that meet these objectives,” Mr Eardley said.