The New South Wales Government has passed controversial changes to its workers compensation through the State’s Lower House. In a bid to lower the company’s $4 billion budgetary blowout, the legislation will see major changes to out of work compensation allowances, including the removal of compensation for transit injuries.

 

“The reality is without these reforms NSW businesses were facing premium hikes of up to 28 per cent, an increase which would stall economic growth and job creation,” NSW Minister for Finance and Services Greg Pearce said.

 

“The Government is determined that we will have the best possible scheme to support injured workers and we also want to ensure the scheme is financially sustainable.”

 

The cuts to compensation entitlements will function retroactively if made into law, meaning that workers currently on compensation for accidents no longer covered will have their payments revoked.