“The Qld Government is proposing to amend the definition of “Terminal Condition” in the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003. The amendment will introduce a life expectancy of 3 years or less to trigger a lump sum payment. The amendment effectively provides a waiting time until access to a lump sum payment is available. Additionally, claims lodged with Work Cover but not yet determined as of the date of the commencement of the new definition will be discontinued and assessed as per the new provision. The Society does not support this amendment and, along with other organisations, has made strong representations to the Government to abandon this course action. This legislation will disadvantage dying workers who have asbestos and silica related diseases. The proposed legislation is at the “committee stage” with a report to Government due on 27 May 2022.
- ADSS General Manager Trevor Torrens and Director Margot Hoyte also appeared before the Legal Affairs and Safety Committee in relation to this legislation – their appearance can be viewed by clicking the link, and forwarding to the 1:00:55 time mark. https://tv.parliament.qld.gov.au/Committees?reference=C6468#parentVerticalTab7
- The Courier Mail has also reported on this issue and the article can be viewed at…Courier Mail – Plans to change rights of terminally ill workers