Occupational health and safety consultation trainer
WorkCover NSW has suspended the acceptance of new OHS Consultation trainer accreditation applications in preparation for the implementation of the Model Work Health and Safety (WHS) legislation on 1 January 2012. Information on the consultation provisions of the WHS legislation can be found here.
For further information please contact WorkCover's Third Party Management Unit hotline on 1800 855 969.
Return to work coordination trainer
To become a return to work coordination trainer to deliver the Introduction to return to work coordination or Advanced return to work coordination training packages, you must be registered by WorkCover as an approved trainer.
All return to work coordination trainers must comply with the WorkCover approved service provider code of conduct at all times.
Introduction to return to work coordination
The Introduction to return to work coordination is a two-day WorkCover approved course for people planning to work as a return to work coordinator in NSW.
To achieve registration as a trainer, applicants must have:
- a minimum two years experience in return to work management
- completed certificate IV in Assessment and workplace training or equivalent
- attended the Introduction to return to work coordination course.
In addition, applicants must possess substantial skills and experience in:
- training groups – including an awareness of adult education principles, group dynamics etc..
- the organisation and administration of training programs.
Applicants must demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the workers compensation system including:
- employer obligations
- the purpose of the return to work program
- the role of the return to work coordinator and stakeholders in the system
- return to work strategies and resources.
Applications for approval can be made using the Application introduction to RTW coordination trainer registration form. An assessor appointed by WorkCover's Provider Services Branch will assess the application.
Renewal process
Trainers need to apply every three years to be an approved trainer. The applications should be made approximately six to eight weeks prior to approval expiring.
Applicants for re-approval received up to three months after the expiry date of approval may be accepted if supported by sufficient reasons for the late applications.
Trainers must meet the following criteria:
- demonstrate continuing compliance with the conditions of approval
- read and sign a current version of the Code of conduct for WorkCover NSW approved service providers
- demonstrate they have completed two courses a year (six in a three year period)
- demonstrate evidence of using participant feedback to improve training and of including current WorkCover requirements in training.
Failure to renew at the expiration of the three year period will result in removal from the WorkCover list of approved trainers.
Advanced return to work coordination
The Advanced return to work coordination is a one-day workshop for experienced return to work coordinators. This is an interactive course with a focus on strategic case management and managing complex cases.
To become an approved trainer of the advanced package, applicants must demonstrate that they:
- are a current registered trainer of the Introduction to RTW Coordination course and have conducted the course in the last 12 months
- have four years experience in an injury management role with either an
insurer, employer or rehabilitation provider
- have comprehensive knowledge of the WorkCover Scheme
In addition, applicants must possess substantial skills and experience in:
- mediation and conflict resolution
- training groups – including an awareness of adult education principles, group
dynamics etc.
- the organisation and administration of training programs.
Applications for approval can be made using the Advanced RTW Co-ordination: Application for Trainer Registration form. An assessor appointed by WorkCover's Provider and Injury Management Services Branch will assess the application.
Advanced return to work coordination course material
The following documents are password protected. Only WorkCover approved trainers can access them:
Interstate modules
As part of the current harmonisation initiative aimed at making systems better and easier for employers and workers, particularly those working in multiple states, it was identified that there was a need for a system providing mutual recognition of return to work coordinators across state borders. Subsequently, New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland have worked together to develop an 'add on' training module to assist return to work coordinators from one state understand legislative and operational requirements in other states.
Contact WorkCover's Provider Services Branch on 1800 801 905 or email provider.services@workcover.nsw.gov.au for more information on becoming a return to work coordination trainer and training modules.