Return to work program – Category 2 employers

Category 2 employers have an average performance premium of $50,000 or less per year or are insured by a specialist insurer and have 20 employees or less.

The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) equivalent for 'average performance premium' is 'basic tariff premium'.

As a category 2 employer, you're obligated to help an injured employee continue or return to work as part of their recovery from injury or illness by providing suitable employment and a return to work program.

Being prepared is key to the effectiveness of your return to work program.

Your return to work program

All businesses must have a return to work program within 12 months of becoming an employer. As a category 2 employer, you may adopt the SIRA's standard return to work program template, or create your program in line with SIRA's category 1 employer guideline.

In line with SIRA's guidelines for category 2 employers, implementing a successful return to work program involves three main activities:

  1. Appoint the person responsible for recovery at work.
  2. Develop a return to work program.
  3. Implement the return to work program.

What are the benefits of a return to work program?

It's in everyone's best interests to help injured employees recover at work or return to employment as soon as their recovery allows.

By implementing effective return to work programs, employers not only benefit from a more engaged workforce and reduced lost time, but also reduced premiums.

Simplifying Workers Compensation in 30: Return To Work program webinar

In this session, you will learn how the Return to work hub can support your business to better manage workers compensation claims, improve return to work outcomes for injured workers, develop a RTW program and how to meet SIRA's legislative requirements.

Presenters:

  • David Huxley, Relationship Manager
  • Jon Price-Randall, Service Proposition Specialist
  • Kate Mayers, Strategic Employer Best & Less representative.

If you need help accessing this video content, please email accessibility@icare.nsw.gov.au.