Business Chamber Queensland has welcomed proposed reforms to Queensland’s workers’ compensation system, saying they respond to concerns raised by businesses while maintaining support for workers when they need it.

Business Chamber Queensland CEO Heidi Cooper said the reforms addressed many of the issues Queensland businesses had raised with the Chamber.

“More than three quarters of our businesses tell us that the current scheme is difficult to navigate and that costs are skyrocketing,” Ms Cooper said.

“Small and family businesses are already facing significant cost pressures, so they need a workers’ compensation scheme that is affordable, sustainable and easier to navigate.”

Business Chamber Queensland has been calling for reforms that improve the current workers’ compensation system by ensuring more cost-effective WorkCover premiums, shorter claim timeframes, a better system to manage psychological claims, and stronger measures to prevent fraud.

The new reforms have measures aimed at reducing costs and delivering clear timeframes as well as changes to psychological injury claims, including a clearer link to the workplace, and clarification of reasonable management action.

Ms Cooper said it was really hard to be an employer right now and managing an overly complex and expensive workers’ compensation system added to these challenges.

“These reforms are an important step towards ensuring a workers’ compensation system that works effectively for businesses while properly supporting employees when they’re injured,” Ms Cooper said.

“Businesses know that the safety, mental health and wellbeing of employees are incredibly important, and they take that responsibility seriously.

“We’ve been working with the State Government on these issues and we’re pleased to see progress. We’ll continue to work to ensure the best outcomes for Queensland businesses and their employees.”