The Federal Government has released a new report on ways to improve seafarers work health and safety outcomes.

First commissioned in 2012 to ensure that the Seacare Scheme was working effectively and efficiently, the review marks the first time the scheme has been comprehensively examined since 1992.

“Consistent with the Gillard Government’s approach across work health and safety, we want to ensure we have an equitable and cost-effective workers’ compensation system which has an emphasis on rehabilitation and return to work,” Minister for Workplace Relations Bill Shorten said.

“The maritime industry is vital to our economy. It is important that those workers and employers covered by the Seacare Scheme have a modern, best practice scheme that reduces the risk of injury in what is an inherently dangerous industry.”

“We are committed to harmonising and modernising the Seacare Scheme to help injured workers recover quickly and return to work safely,” Minister Shorten said.

The review conducted by Mr Robin Stewart-Crompton emphasises the complex legislative and administrative structure of the scheme and its relatively poor performance compared to similar schemes.

The report sets out 67 recommendations to improve the scheme’s coverage, governance, workers’ compensation costs and legislative inconsistencies.

The report is available online at: www.deewr.gov.au/seafarers-rehabilitation-and-compensation-act-review