NEWS

Typically, the Workers Compensation Independent Review Office (WIRO) cover an injured worker’s legal fees and disbursements related to an investigation of a workers compensation claim (whether for weekly benefits, medical expenses or lump sum compensation). However, WIRO funding does not apply to exempt workers. The term ‘exempt worker’ refers to specific classes of workers forRead more

If you were injured in the course of your employment, the workers compensation insurer accepted liability for your claim and you have suffered a permanent impairment, you may be entitled to receive a lump sum payment as compensation. This compensation is in addition to weekly benefits and medical expenses you may be receiving. If youRead more

“Workplace” Clarified by Sexual Harassment Case In a recent decision, the Federal Court held that the term “a workplace” is broad and may include a range of venues and locations, depending upon the surrounding circumstances and the conduct of workplace participants. A recent decision of the Federal Court of Australia is a reminder to employeesRead more

Very interesting statistics from the Sydney Morning Herald today – article below. This change was introduced by the current NSW Liberal Government and has had severe implications for injured workers. http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/thousands-lose-workers-compensation-benefits-with-new-scheme-report-20150305-13vmho.htmlRead more

The Fair work commission recently upheld BHP’s decision to sack a worker for failing to shave his goatee. The worker said having his facial hair was a right. BHP said a clean shave was necessary for the proper operation of respiratory equipment. Read more here:Read more

Have you recently been dismissed from your employment after providing 5 years or more of service? Have you been with your current employer for more than 5 years? You may have certain entitlements to long service leave payments. There is a common misconception that Long Service Leave entitlements only become payable if you have beenRead more

The NSW Supreme Court was asked by worker to consider whether a decision by the Workers’s Compensation Commission approved medical specialists appeal panel was afflicted by jurisdictional error. The decision regarded a worker’s degree of permanent impairment. The worker , Mr El Masri sought to quash their decision and remit that decision to the RegistrarRead more

01 July 2015 Next time you drink at your office Christmas party, you may find there are some consequences for behaving badly. Read the SMH Link here:Read more