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Amy Nikolovski

- 31 Jul 2024
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Proposed changes to workers compensation Impairment Assessment Guidelines in South Australia

Formal Consultation Feedback on draft IAG Third Edition

The State Government is currently consulting on extensive changes to the Impairment Assessment Guidelines, which determine how permanent impairment from work injuries are assessed.

The manner in which permanent impairment is assessed is important as it dictates whether an injured worker is entitled to receive lump sum compensation for their work injury, the amount of that lump sum, and in cases of serious injury, whether the injured worker is entitled to long term income support and medical expenses.

DBH Lawyers have considered the proposed changes to the Impairment Assessment Guidelines and have provided submissions to the relevant body (the Return to Work SA Stakeholder Representative Consultation Group) for their consideration. Please click on this link if you would like to see our submissions.

After reviewing the proposed changes, we are concerned injured workers will be worse off (in terms of the assessment process and outcome) if their permanent impairment assessment takes place after the proposed Impairment Assessment Guidelines come into effect. On the times lines as we understand them, the changes to the Impairment Assessment Guidelines are likely to be finalised and take effect in mid-2025.

If you, or someone you know is, suffering from a work injury arising from employment in South Australia that has resulted in ongoing (permanent) symptoms and restrictions (impairment), we would encourage you to contact our specialised workers compensation team, to obtain obligation-free legal advice on your situation now so you can consider how the proposed changes may affect your legal entitlements and take action accordingly.

To arrange an obligation free first interview please call FREE CALL 1800 324 324 or contact us here.