ContactThe WorkCover Board Tasmania works to ensure a fair and equitable workers compensation scheme, good return to work outcomes and safer workplaces for all Tasmanian workers.
To achieve this, the Board works with employers, employees, unions, medical practitioners, licensed insurers, self-insurers and others to:
- oversee Tasmania’s workers compensation scheme and monitor the performance of scheme participants
- promote prompt and effective injury management
- promote safe and healthy workplaces by providing health and safety guidance
Reporting to the Minister
The Board provides advice to the Minister for Workplace Safety and Consumer Affairs on workers compensation and rehabilitation matters, as well as work health and safety matters. The Board also monitors and reports to the Minister on the operation and effectiveness of the Asbestos-Related Diseases (Occupational Exposure) Compensation Act 2011. Through section 11A of the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988, the Minister may give a direction to the Board about the performance of its functions and exercise of powers, under this or any other relevant Act.
Independent review of the WorkCover Board Tasmania
An Independent review of the WorkCover Board Tasmania was undertaken in 2021, as required by the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (the WRC Act).
The Review was subsequently tabled in Parliament in November 2021 with the Government accepting or supporting its recommendations.
The Review engaged with internal and external stakeholders and included consideration of public and professional submissions.
Recommendations were made under each of its three Terms of Reference, with eight recommendations in total. Three contain matters for Government requiring legislative change, six are matters for consideration by the Board and Department, and one includes actions which are both legislative and operational. All will be undertaken.
Actioning of these recommendations will ensure WorkCover Board Tasmania remains contemporary in its practice and forward-looking in its approach.
Read the full independent WorkCover Board Tasmania review report
Relationship with WorkSafe Tasmania
The Secretary of the Department of Justice fulfils the role of Chair of the Board, ensuring a strong relationship with the Department. The Board monitors and reviews the performance of functions and exercise of powers of the Work Health and Safety Regulator.
WorkSafe Tasmania supports the Board’s functions, including overseeing the Tasmanian workers compensation scheme, and ensuring effective injury management. WorkSafe informs the Board of emerging work health and safety and workers compensation issues, including developments in other jurisdictions.
For details of WorkSafe’s activities, see its entry in the Department of Justice’s Annual Report.