Overview

This guide identifies the significant changes made to the previous workers’ compensation scheme and discusses the effect of the new provisions. The full text of the Act is included for ease of reference.

Reflecting the shift under the Act from the old compensation-based scheme to a new insurance-based scheme, topics covered include:

• early return-to-work measures designed to increase “cooperation” between employers and employees in facilitating a return or re-entry into the workplace,
• reduction of benefit levels in quantum and duration,
• application of principles of administrative law to the new system,
• functions and mandate of the new Board

Understanding the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act explains how the Act works and identifies its pitfalls and weaknesses.