Scheme agents issue and administer policies on behalf of WorkCover. There are seven scheme agents who calculate the premium by a formula determined by WorkCover. The particular industry classification attracts the same rate regardless of the scheme agent. Employers can choose any of the seven nominated scheme agents to administer their new policy once their current policy has expired.
Scheme agents are differentiated through services offered and may include:
- industry claims experience; and/or
- strategies aimed at improving performance with regards to:
- claims incidence
- claims management
- return to work
- OHS and risk management
- overall costs.
Scheme agents do not offer premium reductions to employers including the offer of bundled services. They do not remunerate brokers in relation to the issue or renewal of a policy of insurance.
Role of the broker
A broker is a registered party specialised in providing insurance advice and the placement of workers compensation insurance with a scheme agent on behalf of an employer. A broker may assist an employer with the arrangement of policies and provide advice on risk mitigation strategies relating to insurance, the ongoing reporting of claims and strategies aimed at improving performance in the area of claims leading to premium savings.
Contact 13 10 50 for more information about choosing a scheme agent.