The Queensland Council of Unions (QCU) has questioned Campbell Newman’s commitment to the state’s workers compensation scheme in light of his rejection of Queensland participation in the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
The LNP has fast-tracked a parliamentary committee review of the state’s workers’ compensation scheme and will start public hearings next month.
President of QCU John Battams said Queensland had the only scheme in Australia with sufficient funds to cover liabilities.
“It has the cheapest premiums for employers, and the best outcomes for injured workers in the country,” he said.
“The Premier’s rejection of the NDIS is a rejection of assistance for disabled Queenslanders and their families and carers,” he said.
“He keeps saying ‘there’s no money’ so we would expect that Queensland workers’ compensation scheme – which is fully funded and operated efficiently – to be left alone.
Mr Battams said it benefits all Queenslanders at the least cost to employers of any State.
“It is the most financially viable of all similar schemes in Australia and has the best return to work profile for injured workers,” he said.
“And most importantly on Mr Newman’s criteria it is in financial good shape – it has a funding ratio of 117% and is projected to continue to be funded at 117% well into the future.
“Liberal governments in NSW and Victoria have already taken action to reduce payouts for injured workers and put up more barriers for injured workers to access compensation.
“They have demonstrated an uncaring attitude towards the less fortunate and those with disabilities.
“The Queensland LNP government’s actions to date show that it is not interested in the human impact of their budget cutting and slashing. This week they have shown that they will hide behind their ideological position in relation to the NDIS.
“But they will not be able to use the “no money” excuse to cut back Queensland’s healthy and efficient workers’ compensation scheme.”
The QCU will hold a statewide union delegates next week to develop a strategy to ensure Queensland’s scheme escapes any cutbacks.
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