Legislative reform for workers' compensation system

The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council the urgent need to reform Victoria’s workers’ compensation system. The current system does not properly support injured workers, particularly those with psychological injuries and too often causes delays and decisions that prioritise profit over recovery. Victorian workers deserve a WorkCover system that treats every injury, physical or psychological, fairly, promptly and with dignity.

The Government needs to act now to create a fair, respectful and supportive workers' compensation system for all Victorians.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to change the current laws and establish a comprehensive, trauma-informed and publicly managed workers’ compensation system that includes statutory recognition of the right to worker wellbeing, safety and recovery; free, independent advocacy and peer-support services for all injured workers; integrated physical and psychological rehabilitation with safe, graduated return-to-work plans; stronger enforcement of employer compliance with workplace health and safety laws; and transparent reporting and clear accountability for all claims management decisions.