North Queensland Return to Work Conference hits Townsville

Leading rehabilitation and return to work experts will come together in Townsville today for the North Queensland Return to Work Conference.

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace will attend the conference with Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke.

“Today’s conference is about tackling the costs of having people off work and understanding the health benefits of getting them back to work as soon as they’re able,” Ms Grace said.

“It’s about ensuring effective rehabilitation and return to work remains a priority for employers and workers across Queensland.

“We know that work plays an important role in any rehabilitation process and that being off work for long periods of time can significantly reduce the likelihood of an injured worker ever returning to work.

“Employers who encourage injured staff to recover at work, or allow them to return to work as soon as they are certified functionally capable, are the ones delivering the best outcomes for workers and businesses.”

Ms O’Rourke said in recent years the number of workers’ compensation claims lodged in Queensland had reduced by nearly 16 per cent, while the claim rate had reduced by just over 18 per cent.

“Most encouragingly, last year nearly 95 per cent of injured workers were able to return to some type of employment,” she said.

“Workers have a 70 per cent chance of returning to work after being absent for one month compared to only 35 per cent of workers returning to work after two months absence.

“So it’s vital that we all do the very best we can to help workers get back in the saddle and contribute meaningfully to their workplace as soon as they can.”

Businesses and individuals leading the way in rehabilitation and return to work will be recognised at the Safe Work and Return to Work Awards ceremony on 18 October in Brisbane. For more information visit worksafe.qld.gov.au.

Media Contact: Minister Grace’s Office        Martin Philip 0427 919 548
                      Minister O’Rourke’s Office   Neva Woolmer 0408 317 992