NSW insurer icare launches tender for claims and injury management services

NSW Insurer icare Launches Tender for Claims and Injury Management Services

NSW state insurer icare has recently launched a tender for procurement of claims and injury management services for the NSW Nominal Insurer workers compensation scheme. The move aims to reshape how claims service providers support injured workers and employers across the state.

Minister for Finance and Employee Relations Damien Tudehope said the announcement follows extensive consultation with a wide range of stakeholders, market research, and a survey on the NSW Government Have Your Say website.

Why icare Launched the Tender

"The aim is to improve the way claims are managed, providing simpler, better care for injured workers and support for employers," Mr Tudehope said.

"icare has listened to the needs and concerns of stakeholders and is taking action to evolve and improve the way NSW workers compensation claims are managed. This consultation will continue through the tender process and as the new claims model takes shape."

What the New Model Means for Employers and Providers

"The intention is to include more roles for service providers, encouraging different providers and specialised skills, increasing transparency of performance of providers and providing greater choice for employers over time. This will drive improved outcomes for injured workers and businesses through competition," he said.

For businesses managing workplace safety obligations alongside workers compensation requirements, understanding how these changes affect claims handling remains essential. Organisations seeking guidance on broader OHS management systems for business services in Australia can find practical frameworks that complement compliance efforts during this transition.

Timeline for the New Claims Model

The successful bidder will begin operations on 1 January 2023, according to icare. This timeline gives employers and injured workers a clear window to prepare for the new claims and injury management services structure.

Health outcomes for injured workers depend heavily on timely, well-coordinated claims handling, and icare's reforms signal a stronger focus on this area. Employers should also stay informed on related regulatory updates, including the NSW Resources Regulator's updated Notification of Incident and Injury Guide, which supports consistent injury reporting practices statewide.

Supporting Workplace Health Beyond Claims Management

Improved claims processes work best alongside proactive health and safety measures at the workplace level. Employers looking to strengthen their broader safety culture may benefit from reviewing resources such as mental health policies and plans to support employee wellbeing throughout the recovery and return-to-work process.

Read the full story on the icare website.