Guidance, research and initiatives
Insurer rehabilitation and return to work programs – updated assessment process and new toolkit
We have simplified our process to accredit insurer rehabilitation and return to work programs.
A toolkit has been developed and distributed to insurers to assist them with understanding the requirements of the Accredited rehabilitation and return to work program guideline – for insurers (PDF, 1.03 MB) (ARRTW program guideline). The toolkit includes a suggested structure for a rehabilitation and return to work program which insurers can tailor to reflect their organisation’s unique context and values.
This will help insurers understand the requirements of the ARRTW program guideline and support them to meet legislative obligations. This will also assist us to assess insurer RRTW programs efficiently.
2025 National Return to Work Survey
Safe Work Australia’s 2025 National Return to Work Survey results have been released.
The survey collected data from injured workers and employers on the impact of workplace injuries and illness including workers’ compensation, return to work planning and return to work experiences.
The survey showed a decline in the rate of injured workers returning to work, with notable differences between outcomes for workers with physical and psychological injuries.
Key findings include:
- the National return to work rate fell to 88.9 per cent in 2025, down from 91.6 per cent in 2021
- workers with physical injuries had a higher return rate (90.2 per cent) than those with psychological injuries (76.5 per cent)
- most workers (64.7 per cent) returned to the same duties, but only 53.4 per cent resumed their previous hours—a drop from 58.1per cent in 2021
- injured workers with a RTW plan in place had a higher RTW rate (94 per cent) compared to those without a plan (81.8 per cent)
- there was a greater likelihood of an injured worker returning to work when employers helped their injured worker manage their injury or illness before they lodged a claim
- workers who discuss rehabilitation and return to work with their general practitioner were more likely to return to work
- one of the strongest predictors for a successful return to work involves a formalised rehabilitation and return to work plan with access to suitable duties.
Workers’ Compensation Information Advisory Service (WCIAS) grants
The current grants for the Workers’ Compensation Information Advisory Service for Workers and Workers’ Compensation Information Advisory Service for Employers expire on 30 September 2026. A tender process is currently underway to determine grant recipients for the new contract period to support the effective delivery of services to workers and employers.
These services deliver free, independent, confidential and expert information and advice to enable Queensland employers, workers and people making a claim for workers’ compensation to understand and navigate the workers’ compensation scheme.
The Workers’ Psychological Support Service is also available to Queensland workers who have been impacted by a work-related psychological injury as well as their families and others affected by a serious work-related injury or fatality. An experienced social worker will provide support and guidance, including connecting clients with community services appropriate to their needs. This service is also free, independent and confidential.