existing workers compensation coverage for volunteers
Considerable media attention has focussed recently on the current Workers Compensation Scheme for New South Wales and the reforms recently approved by the Legislative Assembly, yet to be approved by the Legislative Council of Parliament.
The RFSA wrote to the Joint Select Committee on May 21 regarding the NSW Workers Compensation Scheme expressing concern about the impact of any reforms on our volunteers. Reference to the Association’s submission is made on the Committee’s website at www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/workerscompinquiry (Submission 190).
A submission to the Select Committee was also made by the RFS.
It would now appear that our concerns have been addressed. Specific reference to volunteer emergency service workers is made in the reforms. Advice has been received that the coverage for volunteers will not be compromised as a result of the reforms. Protection under the Workers Compensation (Bushfire, Emergency and Rescue Services) Act 1997 will continue.
Staff of the RFS will however be subject to the reforms and the amendments to the NSW Workers Compensation Act.