More than 100 small businesses from across the Macarthur region attended a recent forum offering them advice on how they can better navigate the workers compensation system.
The forum, run by icare, provided practical advice, resources and insights all geared towards helping small businesses better manage their premiums as well as information on injury prevention, early intervention and recovery support for mental health at work.
The South West Sydney region has over 26,000 businesses that employ more than 220,000 people.
Gross incurred workers compensation cost per year in the region is almost $300 million.
The forum included information on how premiums are calculated, what business owners can do to support their staff’s wellbeing and provided advice on return-to-work strategies.
The multi-session day highlighted the importance of understanding workplace obligations and featured speakers from the NSW Government, icare, and SafeWork NSW covering topics such as Savings and Incentives for Small Business, Mentally Healthy Workplaces and Understanding your psychosocial obligations and Understanding your Experience-Rated Employer Premium to minimise costs.
Minister for work health and safety Sophie Cotsis, who addressed the forum (pictured above) said: “I’m pleased to have attended this important forum in Campbelltown where there is a real need to provide support and information for businesses of all sizes.
“This one-on-one engagement is critical. Helping local employers support their workers to stay safe, return to work quickly and get home safely at the end of every day not only safeguards workers’ health, but saves them money.’’
Member for Campbelltown Greg Warren said small businesses are the lifeblood of our region.
“It is important that we support them to find ways to successfully navigate the Workers Compensation system,’’ he said.
“I wish to sincerely thank the local business community for their collaboration and assistance to put this event together. Their commitment to finding smarter, more efficient ways to operate is what keeps the local economy moving.”