Compensation Schemes
The impact of the ageing workforce on work injury and compensation systems in Australia
This 3-year ARC DECRA grant will examine primary and secondary prevention of work injuries and illness in Victoria using workers' compensation data. The results of this research program will provide a key knowledge base on the current work injury burden and associated outcomes for older workers in Victoria and Australia. This knowledge base will serve as a foundation for policy development related to the working conditions and the prevention and consequences of work-injuries among older workers in Victoria and Australia.
Understanding return to work (RTW) in Victoria in the context of an ageing workforce
This ARC Linkage Grant will identify where challenges arise in RTW after a work-related injury or illness for older workers and people with mental stress claims. The results of this project will help form the basis of policy and program changes to address these issues and enable these groups of workers to have better health and economic outcomes. Partner organisations include the Victorian Workcover Authority, the Australian Human Rights Commission, SafeWork Australia, Beyond Blue and the Australian Industry Group.
Developing a framework for understanding and measuring occupational health and safety vulnerability
This ISCRR development grant project will use feedback from various OH&S stakeholder groups to develop a measure of OH&S vulernability among labour market participants that moves beyond demographic worker characteristics towards factors that are more fundamental in creating increased risk of injury or illness. The development of this measure will allow future studies to distinguish between different dimensions of vulnerability and assess the impact of interventions targeting the primary prevention of work injuries and illnesses in Victoria.
Understanding independent medical assessments – a multi-jurisdictional scan
Independent medical assessments are a key part of compensations systems, providing expert advice on injured workers' eligibility for cover and entitlements. Little is known, however, about how different workers' compensation schemes use medical evidence. The purpose of this study is to determine how other compensation bodies use medical assessments including their processes and policy, procurement models and quality assurance.
Exploring the impact of compensable injury: A case study approach
This study aims to develop a detailed understanding of the interactions between critical parties commonly involved in the compensation process. Using a case study approach, the research explores the interdependence of critical agents, including injured persons, family members and case managers in the compensation process. The objective is to understand the impact on each of these critical parties based on their involvement and to highlight challenges and best practices across three compensations systems.
Occupational health and safety resources for newcomers to Australia - a policy and resource scan analysis
The purpose of this project is to examine the services, programs and resources available to newcomers (migrant and refugees) that focus on employment standards, occupational health and safety and workers compensation. The study will identify the types of resources available, discuss important gaps and highlight case studies of programs that present potential models for health and safety authorities working with newcomers.