What is icare and how does it work for injured workers in NSW?
icare (Insurance & Care NSW) is a NSW government agency that provides insurance and care services, primarily managing the workers' compensation scheme for injured workers in New South Wales to support their recovery and return to work.
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How it works in practice
What is icare?
icare, or Insurance & Care NSW, is a NSW government agency that manages various insurance and care schemes for the state. Its primary role relevant to injured workers is overseeing the NSW Workers' Compensation Scheme. icare acts as the insurer for most employers in NSW, except for those who are self-insured or fall under specialized schemes.
How it Works for Injured Workers
When a worker in NSW sustains a work-related injury or illness, their employer is required to have workers' compensation insurance, often provided by icare. The scheme is designed to provide financial support for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and weekly payments if a worker is unable to work due to their injury. icare works with claims agents to manage individual claims, ensuring injured workers receive the necessary care and support to recover and return to work safely. They also focus on injury prevention and scheme stability.
Important exceptions
Not all workers' compensation claims in NSW are managed directly by icare. Large employers can be self-insured, meaning they manage their own workers' compensation liabilities. Additionally, there are specialized schemes for certain industries or government agencies, which may operate independently. The entitlements and benefits can vary based on the nature and severity of the injury, and the specific circumstances of the worker's employment and recovery.
What you should do now
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Report your injury to your employer immediately and seek medical attention from a doctor who can issue a Certificate of Capacity.
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Your employer must notify icare (or their insurer) of your injury, which will then lodge a claim on your behalf.
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Cooperate with your claims agent, providing all necessary medical information and attending rehabilitation appointments as required.
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If your claim is denied or you dispute a decision, utilize the internal review process or seek assistance from the Workers Compensation Independent Review Office (WIRO).
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Focus on your recovery and work collaboratively with your doctor, employer, and insurer on a suitable return-to-work plan.
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