News Archives
2024
New requirements for WorkSafe incident notification 1st July 2024
WorkSafe will be better informed about serious safety incidents under upcoming changes to notification requirements..
Website: WorkSafe Website | FAQ
On 1 July 2024, new regulations will commenced that ban manufacturing, supplying, processing, or installation of engineered stone benchtops, panels, and slabs in Victoria. Engineered stone ban commenced 1 July 2024 1st July 2024
On 1 July 2024, new regulations will commenced that ban manufacturing, supplying, processing, or installation of engineered stone benchtops, panels, and slabs in Victoria..
Website: WorkSafe website
New guidance, inspections target forklift safety 23rd May 2024
WorkSafe has released new guidance and launched a state-wide inspection program to help drive down the toll of forklift-related deaths and injuries. .
Making of the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Regulations 2024 21st May 2024
The Governor in Council has today made the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Regulations 2024 (WIRC Regulations). These new regulations will commence on Sunday 26 May 2024. .
For more information download this document
Engineered stone ban update 14th May 2024
Following the Commonwealth, States and Territory Ministers meeting on Friday 10 May 2024, a further update on the engineered stone ban has been provided by WorkSafe Victoria .
WorkSafe advises eReports to stop trading today, 10 May 2024. 
WorkSafe no longer has comfort that IME and IIA appointments will be able to proceed at eReports offices today or Monday, and intends to cancel appointments to minimise potential impacts on injured workers.
Self-insurers should consider their own arrangements for the coming business days. 
WorkSafe will provide updates on any material changes as they became available. eReports to stop trading 10th May 2024
WorkSafe advises eReports to stop trading today, 10 May 2024. WorkSafe no longer has comfort that IME and IIA appointments will be able to proceed at eReports offices today or Monday, and intends to cancel appointments to minimise potential impacts on injured workers. Self-insurers should consider their own arrangements for the coming business days. WorkSafe will provide updates on any material changes as they became available. .
Highlighting and recognising excellence in workplace health and safety and return to work – entry submission for the WorkSafe Awards 2024 is now open. WorkSafe Awards to celebrate safety champions 9th May 2024
Highlighting and recognising excellence in workplace health and safety and return to work – entry submission for the WorkSafe Awards 2024 is now open..
Website: Enter Now
Amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017 (OHS Regulations) and the Equipment Public Safety Regulations 2017 (EPS Regulations). Regulations that prescribe new incident notification requirements for plant and equipment were made on Tuesday 9 April 2024.
The regulations will commence on Monday 01 July 2024, to allow time for duty holders to be ready to meet their obligations. New incident notification requirements for plant and equipment. 16th April 2024
Amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017 (OHS Regulations) and the Equipment Public Safety Regulations 2017 (EPS Regulations). Regulations that prescribe new incident notification requirements for plant and equipment were made on Tuesday 9 April 2024. The regulations will commence on Monday 01 July 2024, to allow time for duty holders to be ready to meet their obligations..
For more information download this document
WorkSafe's Chair of the Board announced today that, following a competitive recruitment process, Joe Calafiore has been appointed WorkSafe CEO.
Joe Calafiore has been appointed WorkSafe CEO. 10th April 2024
WorkSafe's Chair of the Board announced today that, following a competitive recruitment process, Joe Calafiore has been appointed WorkSafe CEO. .
Engineered stone ban update 5th April 2024
The ban on engineered stone commences in Victoria from 1 July 2024. The Commonwealth, States and Territory Ministers met on Friday 22 March 2024 to discuss the national ban on engineered stone. What does this mean in Victoria?.
On 31 March 2024, a number of changes came into effect to modernise Victoria's WorkCover scheme. Victoria's WorkCover Modernisation 2nd April 2024
On 31 March 2024, a number of changes came into effect to modernise Victoria's WorkCover scheme..
Website: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/scheme-modernisation
2024 WORKERS COMPENSATION TALENT/SALARY INSIGHTS SURVEY 6th February 2024
The first 100 people who complete the survey will enter into the draw to WIN a ticket for the Annual Workers Compensation Summit 28th Feb – 1st March, a 2 Day Ticket + Dinner worth $3,895!! Complete now for a chance to win!!.
Website: SURVEY LINK
The proposed Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Regulations 2024 (proposed WIRC Regulations) and associated Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) are available for public review and comment until close of business, Tuesday 13 February 2024. Proposed Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Regulations 2024 15th January 2024
The proposed Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Regulations 2024 (proposed WIRC Regulations) and associated Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) are available for public review and comment until close of business, Tuesday 13 February 2024..
Website: Victorian Government’s public consultation website, Engage Victoria
For more information download this document
We value our members feedback, please particate in our quick annual survey. We look forward to supporting you in 2024. The Survey will close 10 February 2024. SIAV Annual Members Survey 1st January 2024
We value our members feedback, please particate in our quick annual survey. We look forward to supporting you in 2024. The Survey will close 10 February 2024. .
Website: COMPLETE SURVEY HERE
2023
The Victorian Government will ban all engineered stone from 1 July 2024. Ban on the use of all engineered stone 19th December 2023
The Victorian Government will ban all engineered stone from 1 July 2024..
The proposed WIRC Regulations and associated RIS will open for public review and comment from Monday 15 January 2024 until close of business Tuesday 13 February 2024. Proposed Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Regulations 2024 – Public comment to open 15 January 2024 19th December 2023
The proposed WIRC Regulations and associated RIS will open for public review and comment from Monday 15 January 2024 until close of business Tuesday 13 February 2024..
A determination by WorkSafe Victoria (WorkSafe) in relation to the removal of intact high-rupturing capacity (HRC) fuses containing asbestos. A determination in relation to the removal of intact asbestos-containing fuses 12th December 2023
A determination by WorkSafe Victoria (WorkSafe) in relation to the removal of intact high-rupturing capacity (HRC) fuses containing asbestos..
The Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC the Hon. Danny Pearson MP, has approved the making of the new Workplace facilities and the working environment compliance code (the code). This code came into effect Thursday 7 December 2023. New Workplace facilities and the working environment compliance code 7th December 2023
The Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC the Hon. Danny Pearson MP, has approved the making of the new Workplace facilities and the working environment compliance code (the code). This code came into effect Thursday 7 December 2023..
For more information download this document
Sparke Helmore Lawyers provide us an in depth article to the changes restricting eligibility for psychological injuries, entitlement to weekly payments after 130 weeks, changes to dispute resolution and highlighting the implications of these changes. Bill to modernise Victoria's workers compensation scheme released 3rd November 2023
Sparke Helmore Lawyers provide us an in depth article to the changes restricting eligibility for psychological injuries, entitlement to weekly payments after 130 weeks, changes to dispute resolution and highlighting the implications of these changes. .
For more information download this document
The Annual Report showcases WorkSafe Victoria's objectives, initiatives and performance for the financial year ended 30 June 2023. WorkSafe Annual Report 2023 2nd November 2023
The Annual Report showcases WorkSafe Victoria's objectives, initiatives and performance for the financial year ended 30 June 2023..
For more information download this document
Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment (WorkCover Scheme Modernisation) Bill 2023 1st November 2023
Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment (WorkCover Scheme Modernisation) Bill 2023. Hon. Danny Pearson introduced first reading on 31 October and second reading passed 1 November 2023. All details on bill and readings are found via link. .
Website: The Bill
Presumptive rights expanded to include female cancers 11th October 2023
Firefighters' Presumptive Rights Compensation and Fire Services Legislation Amendment (Reform) Act 2019 (FPRC Act) and Forests Act 1958 (Forests Act). Presumptive rights legislation has been amended to include three gynaecological cancers and will commence from today. .
Website: WorkSafe Website
WIC Arbitration Determinations WIC Arbitration Determinations for 2023 10th October 2023
WIC Arbitration Determinations .
Website: WIC Resources
WorkSafe Announces CEO Colin Radford's Resignation 10th October 2023
Bob Cameron, Chair of WorkSafe Victoria Board announced today the resignation of CEO Colin Radford .
Premier Jacinta Allan today unveiled the new team. Danny Pearson will retain his responsibilities as Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Worksafe and the TAC New Cabinet To Keep Delivering For Victorians 2nd October 2023
Premier Jacinta Allan today unveiled the new team. Danny Pearson will retain his responsibilities as Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Worksafe and the TAC.
Website: See full Media Release Here
For more information download this document
Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail (ADG Code) 26th September 2023
The Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail, edition 7.8 (ADG Code 7.8), and the amended Dangerous Goods (Transport by Road or Rail) Regulations 2018 (DG TRR Regulations) and Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations 2022 (DG SH Regulations) will commence in Victoria on Sunday 1 October 2023. .
For more information download this document
The High Court has held that an employer was not vicariously liable for its employee’s actions in urinating on a co-worker in their shared accommodation.
The Court’s decision, CCIG Investments Pty Ltd (ABN 57 602 889 145) v Schokman [2023] HCA 21 delivered on 2 August 2023, provides employers and insurers with a useful example of circumstances which fall beyond the scope of an employer’s responsibility for employee misbehaviour.
Vicarious liability update – the shocking case of Schokman 30th August 2023
The High Court has held that an employer was not vicariously liable for its employee’s actions in urinating on a co-worker in their shared accommodation. The Court’s decision, CCIG Investments Pty Ltd (ABN 57 602 889 145) v Schokman [2023] HCA 21 delivered on 2 August 2023, provides employers and insurers with a useful example of circumstances which fall beyond the scope of an employer’s responsibility for employee misbehaviour. .
For more information download this document
Welcoming HAYLO People as our Newest Affiliate Member. 10th August 2023
HAYLO People have joined this month as an Affiliate member to SIAV. They currently work with a number of our members and the wider workers compensation industry. HAYLO People are a specialist personal injury recruitment agency with over 40 years of combined recruiting experience. Please see contact information below should you like to reach out for a conversation. Key Contact Victoria: Rachel Gilmore, Rachel.gilmore@haylopeople.com.au / 0413 411 673.
Website: Website
WorkSafe 3: Investigation into Victorian self-insurers’ claims management and WorkSafe oversight. The Victorian Ombudsman releases her report today. Victorian Ombudsman releases her report on Self Insurers 21st June 2023
WorkSafe 3: Investigation into Victorian self-insurers’ claims management and WorkSafe oversight. The Victorian Ombudsman releases her report today. .
Website: Link to website
For more information download this document
The WorkSafe Awards recognise individuals, teams or organisations that go above and beyond for workplace safety and also celebrate the people involved in helping injured workers return to work and health. Entries for the 2023 WorkSafe Awards are now open! 24th May 2023
The WorkSafe Awards recognise individuals, teams or organisations that go above and beyond for workplace safety and also celebrate the people involved in helping injured workers return to work and health. .
The Andrews Labor Government announces Friday 19 May 2023, it is helping Victorians get healthy and back to work after injury, building a modern WorkCover scheme that gives security to Victorian workers and businesses. See full details here on what this will looks like. Getting Victorians Healthy And Back To Work 19th May 2023
The Andrews Labor Government announces Friday 19 May 2023, it is helping Victorians get healthy and back to work after injury, building a modern WorkCover scheme that gives security to Victorian workers and businesses. See full details here on what this will looks like..
Website: Media Release
For more information download this document
2022
On 5 December 2022, WorkSafe's PIAWE estimator tool will be live on their website. Self-Insurers may find that their workers will be able to use this tool. The calculation still needs to be verified by the self insurer. Please see Fact Sheet for further information. WorkSafe PIAWE Estimator 29th November 2022
On 5 December 2022, WorkSafe's PIAWE estimator tool will be live on their website. Self-Insurers may find that their workers will be able to use this tool. The calculation still needs to be verified by the self insurer. Please see Fact Sheet for further information. .
For more information download this document
Upcoming changes to timelines for workers to request a review of a disputed WorkSafe agent decision through the Workers Compensation Independent Review Service (WCIRS). Changes to the WCIRS review 25th November 2022
Upcoming changes to timelines for workers to request a review of a disputed WorkSafe agent decision through the Workers Compensation Independent Review Service (WCIRS)..
For more information download this document
WorkSafe releases their FAQ document which has been developed to support Self-insurer’s awareness of the Arbitration process. 
WorkSafe Guidance - Arbitration Readiness 31st October 2022
WorkSafe releases their FAQ document which has been developed to support Self-insurer’s awareness of the Arbitration process. .
For more information download this document
Managing COVID-19 risks in workplaces
Cross-industry COVID-19 Guidance 21st October 2022
Managing COVID-19 risks in workplaces .
For more information download this document
The Victorian Government has released its response to the Independent Review of the Dangerous Goods Act 1985 and associated regulations (the Review) conducted by Mr Andrew Palmer KC. Independent review of Victoria’s dangerous goods laws 10th October 2022
The Victorian Government has released its response to the Independent Review of the Dangerous Goods Act 1985 and associated regulations (the Review) conducted by Mr Andrew Palmer KC..
For more information download this document
OHS Amendment (Psychological Health) Regulations – Update 27th September 2022
The Victorian Government will continue to review stakeholder feedback and progress the Occupational Health and Safety Amendment (Psychological Health) Regulations (proposed regulations) in early 2023..
Commencement of offences for prohibited insurance and indemnities 26th September 2022
Offences related to certain kinds of prohibited insurance and indemnities commenced Thursday 22 September 2022..
Reinsurance challenges facing self-insurers 19th September 2022
It is becoming increasingly difficulty for self-insurers to obtain reinsurance.
Website: Click here for full article
Presumptive rights for forest firefighters 14th September 2022
On 14 September 2022 eligible forest firefighters engaged by Forest Fire Management Victoria and partner agencies have access to presumptive rights compensation for specified cancers. .
On 1 September 2022 eligible vehicle and equipment maintenance employees engaged by Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and the Country Fire Authority (CFA) will have access to presumptive rights compensation for specified cancers. New presumptive rights for firefighting vehicle and equipment maintenance employees 2nd September 2022
On 1 September 2022 eligible vehicle and equipment maintenance employees engaged by Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and the Country Fire Authority (CFA) will have access to presumptive rights compensation for specified cancers..
The Minister for Workplace Safety, Ingrid Stitt, has approved the making of the new Communicating occupational health and safety across languages compliance code (code).
Communicating OH&S across languages - compliance code 28th July 2022
The Minister for Workplace Safety, Ingrid Stitt, has approved the making of the new Communicating occupational health and safety across languages compliance code (code). .
For more information download this document
John Merritt, Chair of the WorkSafe Board will finish up 15th July 2022
Minister Stitt announces Friday 15th July 22, WorkSafe Victoria’s Board Chair John Merritt will finish up in the role following nearly three years of guiding the organisation through one of the most challenging periods for Victorian workplaces..
The Victorian Ombudsman announced Thursday 14 July that she has commenced an own motion investigation into the claims process followed by employers that self-insure their workers, and WorkSafe’s oversight of them. New Ombudsman investigation into WorkSafe- Self-Insurers 14th July 2022
The Victorian Ombudsman announced Thursday 14 July that she has commenced an own motion investigation into the claims process followed by employers that self-insure their workers, and WorkSafe’s oversight of them..
Website: Victorian Ombudsman
Arbitration to commence 1 September 22 13th July 2022
The Minister for Workplace Safety announces today the new arbitration service to be established within the ACCS, will be rebranded as the Workplace Injury Commission and begin operating from 1 September. The ACCS Board announces Alyssa Duffy as the Chief Executive Officer and Senior Conciliation Officer of ACCS..
Website: Vic Gov Media Release HERE
The Minister for Workplace Safety, Ingrid Stitt, has made the Occupational Health and Safety Amendment (COVID-19 Vaccination Information) Regulations 2022 (the COVID-19 Vaccination Information Regulations). OH&S Amendment (COVID-19 Vaccination Information) Regulations 2022 7th July 2022
The Minister for Workplace Safety, Ingrid Stitt, has made the Occupational Health and Safety Amendment (COVID-19 Vaccination Information) Regulations 2022 (the COVID-19 Vaccination Information Regulations)..
Family supports changes following a work-related death - Workplace Safety Legislation and Other Matters Amendment Act 2022 Better support for workers and Families 1st July 2022
Family supports changes following a work-related death - Workplace Safety Legislation and Other Matters Amendment Act 2022.
For more information download this document
Indexation 1 July | Victoria Government Gazette 30th June 2022
The Victorian Government Gazette was released today No. G 26 Thursday 30 June 2022. See attached for new indexation rates effective 1 July 2022. .
For more information download this document
2022 WorkSafe Awards 20th June 2022
WorkSafe 2022 Awards | Highlighting Excellence ........Entries are now open and close Friday 15 July. .
Website: Entries Now Open Here
Making of the Dangerous Goods (Explosives) Regulations 2022 7th June 2022
The Governor in Council on 7 June 2022 has made the Dangerous Goods (Explosives) Regulations 2022 (Explosives Regulations). These new regulations commence on Saturday 18 June 2022..
Website: Explosives Regulations
Join Me&Work and Back2Work Solutions for a FREE virtual speaker session with Dr Sarah Martire on Wednesday 25 May 2022 How can all factors of wellbeing be promoted by the workplace to drive success? 17th May 2022
Join Me&Work and Back2Work Solutions for a FREE virtual speaker session with Dr Sarah Martire on Wednesday 25 May 2022.
The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017 (OHS Regulations) were amended to better protect workers from exposure to crystalline silica. The second phase of amendments is due 15 May 2022. High risk crystalline silica work and duties of manufacturers and suppliers 12th May 2022
The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017 (OHS Regulations) were amended to better protect workers from exposure to crystalline silica. The second phase of amendments is due 15 May 2022..
The Minister for Workplace Safety, Ingrid Stitt, has approved the making of the new Lead compliance code (code).
New Lead Compliance Code 14th April 2022
The Minister for Workplace Safety, Ingrid Stitt, has approved the making of the new Lead compliance code (code). .
Website: Worksafe Website
For more information download this document
Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (OHS Act) commence in relation to labour hire workers. 22nd March 2022
Tuesday 22 March 2022, a number of changes to the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (OHS Act) commence in relation to labour hire workers. .
Website: WorkSafe Guidance
Independent Review into the management of complex Claims 18th March 2022
The Victorian Government commissioned Peter Rozen QC to undertake an independent review into the agent model and administration of complex WorkCover claims, and now welcomes his report improving the experience of injured workers: A review of WorkSafe Victoria's management of complex workers' compensation claims. .
Website: Read the review Report
For more information download this document
The Workplace Safety Legislation and Other Matters Amendment Bill 2021 has received Royal Assent 17th March 2022
the Workplace Safety Legislation and Other Matters Amendment Bill 2021 received Royal Assent on 16 March 2022 and is now an Act of Parliament. .
Website: Vic Legislation Website
For more information download this document
Proposed Occupational Health and Safety Amendment (Psychological Health) Regulations 17th February 2022
The proposed Occupational Health and Safety Amendment (Psychological Health) Regulations (proposed regulations) and associated Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) are available for public review until close of business, Thursday 31 March 2022. .
Website: Further Information Here