A new Personal Injury Commission (PIC) is to be established this year to simplify the dispute resolution system for injured road users and worker compensation claims.
Minister for Customer Service, Victor Dominello said the PIC would consolidate the dispute resolution systems of the Workers Compensation Commission and Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance scheme.
“The proposed PIC model has been developed in consultation with scheme providers and industry stakeholders over the past 12 months to ensure that it delivers the best possible claimant experience,” Mr Dominello said.
“CTP disputes are currently managed by the State Insurance Regulatory Authority, but will now be consolidated into a single tribunal by expanding the Workers Compensation Commission,” he said.
“Two divisions will be created, with an independent judicial head, enabling the retention of subject matter expertise and personnel in the new body.”
Mr Dominello said a single tribunal would deliver greater flexibility in the allocation of workloads and resources across different jurisdictions.
“It is expected legislation will be introduced into Parliament in coming months,” he said.
“It will propose no changes to the underlying schemes, so there is no impact to the benefits and rights of involved parties.”
Mr Dominello said the intent of the PIC was to bring about a consolidated and modern tribunal, with minimal impact to insurance premiums and ensure certainty with business continuity.
