Federal Government releases independent review of Comcare laws

The Australian Government has published the findings of the independent review of the laws supporting the Commonwealth workers’ compensation program. Recommendations centre on modernising Comcare, speeding recovery, and lifting safety accountability across federal agencies and licensed corporations.

Here is the short version: the panel found current legislation no longer reflects modern working life, and reform is needed to keep the program financially sound while improving support for people who are hurt or unwell at work.

One of the most detailed examinations since 1988

This evaluation, conducted by a group of experts, is considered one of the most detailed reviews of the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act since the scheme was introduced in 1988.

Reviewers looked closely at how entitlements are designed, how quickly recovery support reaches an injured worker, and whether funding settings remain viable across coming decades.

Key themes from the panel’s findings

• Modernising rules written for a very different era of working life
• Faster recovery assistance, plus earlier return-to-duty planning
• Coverage for psychological health and mental injury
• Clearer health and safety duties for Commonwealth employers
• Better coordination between agencies, insurers and treating clinicians
• Long-term financial sustainability of Comcare arrangements

Government response to the review

The Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Amanda Rishworth, conveyed her appreciation to the independent panel for their report and indicated that the Government would take the review findings into serious consideration.

“The review found there was a need to modernise the scheme to better support injured and ill workers with recovery and return to work and ensure its long-term sustainability,” Minister Rishworth said.

“Our Government is committed to the effective operation and sustainability of the Comcare scheme, so it can continue to fulfil its critical function as the world of work undergoes significant shifts.”

What this means for safety professionals

Employers covered by Comcare should watch how reform lands, because changes to entitlements and recovery timeframes will reshape internal procedures plus record keeping. Early intervention still shapes how quickly a worker regains capacity, so keep injury management documentation current and easy to verify.

Useful steps for duty holders and safety leaders include:

• Reviewing injury management procedures against themes raised by reviewers
• Checking that hazard controls and consultation records stay current — our management review policy template helps structure that process
• Documenting leadership meeting outcomes using a management review meeting record
• Comparing internal performance data with Comcare’s year in review findings

Enforcement continues regardless of reform timelines, as shown when Comcare charged a federal agency after an employee assault. States are tightening duties too, with NSW industrial manslaughter legislation another signal of rising expectations.

Strong safety systems, supported by well-maintained documentation, remain the most reliable way to improve recovery and safety outcomes.

Full details of the independent review, including every recommendation put to Government, are available publicly. Learn more here.