Workers compensation information for employers

Applies from 1 July 2010

The following is an outline of your basic legal responsibilities and provides some practical information on how to manage an injured worker.

Every employer must take out a worker's compensation policy with a licensed insurer or apply to the WorkCover Tasmania Board and be granted a permit to self-insure.

Any employer who does not have a current policy may be prosecuted and fined up to $65,000 (500 penalty units) as well as an amount equal to the premium avoided. You may also be held responsible for the full cost of any workers compensation claims that are made.

An employer must display a summary of the Act in their workplace.
 Summary of Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (GB014)

 1 Page checklist for employers (IS078)

Claims process checklist

1. What to do if a worker notifies you of an injury
2. You must notify your insurer
3. You must provide the worker with a 'right to claim notice' within 14 days of being notified of an injury.
4. What to do when you receive a claim from a worker
5. You must complete the employer's section of the claim form and forward it with the worker's medical certificate and any accounts to your insurer.
6. Paying compensation
7. Disputes about your liability to pay workers compensation
8. Injury management and return to work
9. Holding a job open for an injured worker

Further information