Changes to the WCIRS review

 

WorkSafe released the upcoming changes to timelines for workers to request a review of a disputed WorkSafe agent decision through the Workers Compensation Independent Review Service (WCIRS).

 

From Monday 16 January 2023, unless there are exceptional circumstances, injured workers who wish to apply to the WCIRS must do so within 30 days of their Genuine Dispute Certificate (GDC) issued by the Workplace Injury Commission (WIC) after conciliation; and within 6 months of becoming aware of the agent decision in dispute.

 

The changes are expected to encourage timely applications to WCIRS and ensure there is sufficient time to complete an independent review before the deadline for workers to refer their matter to the recently introduced WIC arbitration service. They will also ensure WCIRS reviews are supported by current and relevant evidence.

 

While this narrows the current review time-frames, historically the average time between agent decision and application to WCIRS is 6 months.

 

Further information about this change is contained in the attached FAQs.

 

If you have any queries, please contact WCIRS: Call (03) 423 7061 or Email: wcirs@worksafe.vic.gov.au

For more information download this document