Q: Is it a legal requirement to have a return to work coordinator in each state our business is based in? Does we need a certain number of employees in the state before this is required? Also, do return to work coordinators need formal certification?

A: In some jurisdictions, you are legally required to appoint a return to work coordinator to assist with any return to work programs.

For example, in South Australia, this requirement applies to all employers with more than 30 employees.

Whereas in NSW, a return to work coordinator is required by:

• category 1 employers whose basic tariff premium exceeds $50,000 annually;
• self-insurers; and
• employers insured by a specialised insurer who employ more than 20 people.

In addition, subject to certain exemptions, in NSW the return to work coordinator must hold:

• a certificate proving they have attended the WorkCover 2-day course (Introduction to Return to Work Coordination);
• a certificate proving they have attended the 2-day WorkCover training course for rehabilitation coordinators (conducted prior to February 1995); or
• a letter from the Insurance Regulation Branch agreeing to exempt the return to work coordinator from participating in the above training.

We recommend that you review chapter W1 Workers’ Compensation.

Please note: The answer is correct at the time of publishing. Be aware that laws may change over time. Refer to Workers' compensation for current advice.