THE Canberra Business Chamber, has responded to news of the ACT Government’s decision to withdraw from the Federal workplace insurance scheme, Comcare, because of escalating premium costs.

Canberra Business Chamber CEO, Chris Faulks, says that the private and community sectors have faced spiralling workers compensation premiums for many years due to the current system in the ACT and given the plight of the Government a complete review may now be timely.

“Increasingly we are being approached by exasperated business and community sector members to seek a review of the current scheme to help manage costs which have exploded as a result of rapidly escalating claims,” Chris said.

“Many business and community sector people are telling me that the Workers’ Compensation premiums alone are putting their enterprises at risk and unless something is done soon they and many others will have no choice but to reduce their employment base, if not close their businesses altogether.”

“The Government is also facing the same situation as they deal with what have been reported as ‘dubious claims’ and ‘dodgy payouts’ along with doctor shopping.”

“I am very pleased that ACT Industrial Relations Minister, Mick Gentleman, has signalled a move for a review of the public sector system because that affects taxpayers, however I trust that the review is extended to the private and community sectors where the impact on services, consumers and business has been significant.”

“It would be a slap in the face to the private and community sectors if the ACT Government limited its reform agenda to bring down costs for itself and leave the business and community sectors stranded with a system that is fundamentally flawed.”

“We would welcome the opportunity to work with the ACT Government along with other important stakeholders to look at developing a scheme that is fairer for all, especially those people suffering genuine injury and illness.” concluded Ms. Faulks.