New RTW initiatives announced by WorkCover

WorkCover NSW has announced a number of initiatives and reforms to improve return to work outcomes.

INitiatives for employers include updating the JobCover Placement Program wage subsidy from $3,600 over 12 weeks to $27,400 over the first year, increasing from one to two years the period that an injured worker's wages are exempt from premium calculation, increasing the protection period against further costs from existing injury from one to two years, and reducign red tape for the agent managing a worker's claim.

Injured workers will receive a "transition-to-work payment" of up to $5,000 for costs that pose a significant barrier to return to work such as childcare or relocation, equipment funding for tools, and extension of the work trial period several weeks beyond the current 12 week limit.