Victorians encouraged to express their opinions on the ‘draft Code of Claimants’ Rights’

Victorians can now have their say on the draft Code of Claimants' Rights. WorkSafe Victoria is requesting input on the proposed code, which is designed to enhance the experience of people using the state's workers' compensation system. Public feedback closes Wednesday, May 27, and the finished document is expected to launch by the end of the year.

Key points at a glance

• What is proposed: A code of claimants' rights setting clear standards for how people are treated at every stage of a claim.
• Why it exists: Changes made last year to the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Act prompted its development.
• Who should respond: Workers, employers, treating health providers, unions and community members.
• Feedback window: Open until Wednesday, May 27.
• Anticipated start: Before the end of this year.

Why the draft code was developed

Reforms passed last year to Victorian workers' scheme legislation triggered the drafting of this document. WorkSafe CEO Cathy Henderson said the code will establish clear standards for the treatment of claimants and enhance transparency and accountability throughout the system.

“We are committed to delivering a scheme that supports injured workers and ensures people are treated with dignity and respect at every stage of their claim. By formalising these rights, claimants can feel confident and empowered throughout the process,” she said.

“WorkSafe values the perspectives of those with lived experience and we encourage workers, employers and the community to have their say and help shape a code that will improve outcomes for all claimants,” Henderson added.

What claimant rights mean day to day

Formalised entitlements give people a consistent level of support from lodgement through to recovery. Clear benchmarks also tell agents, insurers and workplaces exactly what respectful, timely support looks like in real terms.

Anyone who feels unheard during their claim can then point to a documented right rather than relying on goodwill alone. That shift toward measurable standards is what the regulator believes will lift confidence across the Victorian scheme.

How the code sits within Victorian legislation

Existing legislation already governs entitlements, medical treatment and return-to-work obligations. The new draft code of claimants' rights does not replace those legal duties — instead, it clarifies behavioural expectations for everyone handling a claim, from first notification through to case closure.

How to share your views

Feedback can be provided online while consultation remains open. Lived experience carries real weight here, so people who have navigated the scheme personally are strongly encouraged to contribute. Employers and industry bodies may also comment on how the proposed standards will work alongside their existing injury management systems.

What employers can do now to support recovery

• Review return-to-work procedures so employees recovering from workplace injuries receive early, documented support.
• Train supervisors to hold respectful conversations and offer genuine, non-judgemental support.
• Record all claim-related discussions, because well-kept files support transparency if concerns arise later.
• Establish peer or wellbeing programs that support mental health recovery alongside physical rehabilitation.
• Make certain everyone knows where to find independent advice and support outside their reporting line.

Resources that support Victorian workplaces

Strong documentation underpins fair claim handling, so our template resources help teams prove their systems are consistent and current. Businesses may find our worker code of conduct policy useful for setting behavioural expectations, while our managing risks of plant in the workplace guidance and silica dust code update address high-risk hazards that frequently lead to claims.

Other consultations worth watching include the national consultation on managing fatigue risks. Seasonal reminders such as ladder safety guidance for Victorian workers round out these resources for anyone reviewing their risk controls this year.

Find out more on the WorkSafe website.